Faith August 1, 2016 By
In today’s society there have been a lot of restrictions placed on what is appropriate and what is inappropriate when it comes to sharing one’s faith. Even though times have changed since I have attended school, I still believe there are many ways to openly share your faith.
One way to share faith at school is by being a person of influence. Christ can be seen in your life by the way you treat other people, whether it be your peers, teachers, coaches, administration, etc. One of the greatest commandments is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind (Matthew 22:37). The second is to love your neighbor as yourself. God has called us to love everyone. By showing someone love and kindness, you can become one of the greatest influences in their life.
Another way to share faith at school is through leadership. I was able to hold a place of leadership through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), serving as President my Junior and Senior year of high school. FCA focuses on serving local communities by equipping, empowering and encouraging people to make a difference for Christ. Founded in 1954, FCA is the longest (and largest) continuing ministry allowed in public schools. FCA had a major impact in my life and allowed me to openly share my faith at school. We were able to host weekly huddle groups (Bible study) on campus and even meet every morning outside around the flag pole to start the morning off with a student led prayer.
In addition to being a person of influence and holding a place of leadership, it is extremely important to be a person of character and integrity. I love First United Bank’s core values of ‘Knowing, Living and Sharing What’s Right.’ These core values come from Chairman John Massey as he always says, “Just Do What’s Right.” Being a person of character and integrity is someone who always does the right thing.
What is fascinating about all of these characteristics is that they all seem to work together. A person of character and integrity has influence on others. When you have influence on others you become a leader. When you become a leader, you make a difference.
Lastly, I encourage you to step out and be different. Be bold in your walk with the Lord. Let others know what He has done for you and what He can do for them. Don’t feel like you have to fit in with everyone else. Be yourself. Be real and let real Jesus, be real Jesus inside of real you!
“Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.” -- 1 Timothy 4:12
