Before the Internet, I rarely did much witnessing about my faith. I'm shy and not comfortable speaking with others directly. Now I speak with many people, answering their questions, praying with them, studying passages together, discussing and exchanging thoughts on those passages, and sharing my beliefs on many topics.

The Internet has afforded me the ability to really think before I say something, and do prayerful research before I answer a question or respond to a comment. I never feel put on the spot because utilizing message boards gives me the opportunity to think things through something I just don't manage as well sitting before someone.

From the point of view of the one being witnessed to, I like the idea that I can print a conversation or message posting off my computer to use later when I am doing Bible study, or to mull over something profound that has been said. So often when I converse with someone, something they said jumps out at me-and a light bulb comes on! Yet when I try to recall it later, I can't remember it. Being able to save conversations and postings on my computer enables me to refer to them again and again.

I've heard the argument that online witnessing is too anonymous, and that there's something to be said for looking someone in the eye, or having them see facial expressions that could further clarify what we are trying to say. To this I'd have to say Yes, sometimes I feel frustration when trying to get a point across and wished I could look the person in the eye, or touch their hand to let them know I care. It is then that I've learned to send silent prayers to the Lord to help them, and I know and trust that He does. Several of those I've witnessed to have told me they feel His presence when studying together.

In my opinion, witnessing online is just one other way we can share our beliefs with the world. Like radio and television, you can reach many with one posting or conversation. It gives me borderless opportunities to share my faith. It offers the opportunity for the Lord to lead me to someone who needs to hear about Him, and in turn my faith grows stronger.

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Cindy Warehime, writes from Spokane, WA