“Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples” (John 15:8).

If any Christian ever becomes discouraged in his witness for Christ, he should remind himself of the many blessings that are promised to those who faithfully bear testimony for His name’s sake. First of all, it brings unique joy when he sees the fruit it bears. “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him” (Psalm 126:5,6).

There is also the inestimable worth of even one soul. “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins” (James 5:20).

Faithful witnessing will eventually lead to revival. In the early church, we are told that “daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ” (Acts 5:42), with the result that “the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith” (Acts 6:7).

Then, there are special rewards in heaven for faithful witnessing, not least of which is the very presence of those who would not have been there otherwise: “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?” (I Thessalonians 2:19). “And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever” (Daniel 12:3).

Best of all, however, is the simple knowledge that our witnessing shows Christ our love, and brings honor to our heavenly Father. “Herein is my Father glorified.” Therefore, “let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9). HMM