Live Out Loud!

In recent days, I have been speaking with folks about “Living Out Loud” for God in a callous and tone deaf world. We are bombarded with so many wrong messages that do not align with God’s Word and principles. How do we stand out and declare our faith in a meaningful way that will positively impact those around us?

I believe that Paul answered this question to some degree. If we look at Acts 20:18-19, we see Paul make this statement; “You yourselves know how I lived among you from the first day that I set foot in Asia, serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials..” If we read on a bit further, Paul talks about not shrinking back.

We should take Paul’s example and live with humility and love for all mankind. This does not mean that there will not be challenges or har times. It does not mean that everything is going to be sunshine and lollipops. What it does mean is that if we are to live in accordance with God’s Word and purpose, and we do not shrink back or run away, people should be able to see that we are different from societal and cultural norms. We walk in this world in such a way that we are doing good and living with character and integrity in every area of our lives. 

What is your life speaking to those around you? Is it saying that you will look out for you and no one else? Is it saying “Get out of the way or I will run you over?” Is it telling people that you do not care what is happening with them as long as you are doing well? These are all messages that are harmful and detrimental to spreading the love of God. Let’s purpose in our hearts to live our lives in such a way that we are loving and serving instead of constantly trying to have and get. The desire to have and get is in contradiction to the Law of Love. If we love, we prefer others needs above our own. We rejoice when others succeed instead of getting mad and asking, Why not me?

When you get up tomorrow morning, ask yourself; “What can I do to make someone else’s life better today? What can I do today that will communicate the love, grace, mercy, and power of God.”

I hope you will take this challenge and watch situations and circumstances around you change. Watch how people react to you differently. It is all because you made an intentional decision to display God’s unconditional love.