Live Your Faith Out Loud

When I was a kid, we used to sing this song, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine. Hide it under a bushel, NO! I’m gonna let it shine.” As an eight-year-old in Sunday School, I didn’t understand its powerful message. But we were declaring that we would live our lives unashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We would not try to hide our light, but let it burn brightly for all to see. We would live our faith out loud. Only when I grew up did I realize the pledge I made to let my light shine. I wrote my “grown-up” version of this song in the lyrics of Unashamed.

I’m unashamed
And I will live my faith out loud
Take a stand and stand my ground
For the One who took my shame
I'm unashamed

To live our faith out loud means to speak and live the message of Christ for everyone to see. But how do we do that? One way is to avoid the bushel basket. Matthew 5:16 tells us, “Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” There should be no undercover Christians!

Another way we can live our faith out loud is by becoming imitators of God. Ephesians 5:1-2 instructs us to “Follow God’s example (be imitators of God.) Therefore, as dearly loved children, walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Philippians 2:5 says it this way, “In your lives, you must think and act like Christ Jesus.”

An imitator is a person who copies the behavior or actions of another. The only way we can imitate someone is to get to know them personally. To reflect God, we need to read the Word. Know what He is like, and study His traits. Remember, our actions do speak louder than our words, so living our faith out loud is being kind, patient, and compassionate.

Lastly, always be ready to share your story for His glory! “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have… (1 Peter 2:15).” Some of us find it easier to live our faith out loud without a word. We feel intimidated to share our faith, and inadequate to share the gospel. But remember, the most powerful thing you can do is tell others what God has done for you! It’s your story! You know every detail. People are longing to hear your story. It will draw them to Christ. And sharing your story defeats the enemy every time! Revelation 12:11 tells us just how powerful it is: "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony.”

So, whether you share your story, the plan of salvation or live a life that reflects God and His love, you will be effectively living your faith out loud for the world to see. No more hiding your light under a bushel basket. Let it shine!

Do Something

1. Do you struggle with being vocal about your faith?
2. Have you ever written your story? If not, let me encourage you to take time to write out your testimony. It will remind you of all God has done and it will help prepare you to share it the next time you have an opportunity.
3. Read Matthew 5:16.