Question: I was raised going to church and I have spiritual beliefs that are important to me. I’m home from college on spring break and am thankful to reconnect with like-minded spiritual people as it’s challenging to live out my faith on a college campus. A number of my classmates say they believe in God but don’t depend on Him, nor do their lives reflect it. They say disparaging things to try to undermine my strong faith. 

I don’t feel I should have to explain my commitment to God or my church. Is there a way to quash these discussions without sounding self-righteous? 

– An Authentic Believer

Answer: Dear Authentic Believer,

Your steadfast commitment to God is to be commended and encouraged.  

When we go out into that “real world,” especially a college environment, we get confronted with things that test our faith and are challenged by those who are skeptical of our commitment to the Lord. Unfortunately, in today’s world many people have become jaded, unreceptive or even hostile toward people of faith and look to discredit or diminish our witness for God.

Be encouraged! There are many people who are genuinely looking for those with authentic faith. People want assurance that we’re people of faith who don’t just “talk the talk, but walk the walk,” as the expression goes.

Matthew 5:16 (Amplified), says, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, so they recognize and honor your Heavenly Father.”

Live out your faith rather than getting into debates over it. If we live our lives with integrity, graciousness and forgiveness, loving and serving others, it speaks volumes to those around us. Ask God how you can love and serve those you know so that He will get the credit for your actions and will be drawn to the God you serve.

I have a grandson who for the past four years has effectively ministered to those within his university’s fraternity/sorority system. He has lived out his faith with joy and authenticity and doesn’t have to “preach” it. Because of his unwavering devotion, many young men and women have made commitments to follow God. As a result, he disciples a large group of men and women who meet regularly to encourage, strengthen and pray for each other.

Hopefully you have also surrounded yourself with a group of strong believers for accountability and support. We need them for encouragement to prayerfully stand alongside us when our beliefs, values and commitment to God are being tested. If you don’t have such partners, ask God to show you like-minded and like-hearted brothers and sisters and get connected as soon as possible.

Standing with you and praying for you, as you let “your light shine,”

Pastor Dabney Beck