
“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry,” James 1:19 (NLT).
Often times, we find that international students are longing to talk about issues and topics they would not or could not engage in back home. Though some of these students might be apprehensive about attending a Bible study for the first time, many are more than willing to meet over a cup of coffee for a casual conversation about a variety of other topics. These “coffee dates” can provide a relaxed, nonthreatening environment for students to ask questions and share their perspectives. These meetings can also provide a place for us to share our faith, and talk about why we believe what we believe.
One of our ministry volunteers shared his experience with us. He writes:
“I look at these discussions as seeds planted in the minds of busy intellectuals and deep-thinking scholars, providing food for thought as they observe the people and the world around them in a different culture and environment. I have had dozens of spontaneous deep conversations with students discussing topics such as alcohol, drugs and addictions, religion—are you born with it or do you choose it?—pornography, abortion, and premarital sex. Many of these conversations lead us into discussions about the Gospel, and why we need Jesus, as well as what His death and resurrection mean to us. When we approach it from a real-world angle, the students seem very open to how biblical truths apply to our life situations and questions today. I am so excited to speak into the open hearts that God brings to us from all over the world!”
Here at International Students, Inc., we have such an incredible opportunity to share the Good News of Jesus Christ during our everyday interactions with students from all over the world. Whether we are meeting over coffee, or picking someone up from the airport, we are in a unique position to “be Jesus” to students. Seeds are planted when we show kindness and offer a safe place for students to be themselves. Amazing things happen when we listen well and share from a place of vulnerability and compassion.
“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry,” James 1:19 (NLT).
For More Information
If you are interested in helping international students adapt to and learn about our culture, you may want to become an ISI Friendship Partner.
Are you a prayer warrior? Learn more about how you can become an ISI Prayer Partner.