Core Motivations...

I sometimes think that as Christ followers, we could expand our imaginations when it comes to how God might use us in this world. And by "us," I mean me too—I’m very much included in that!

Multiply. That’s what we’re called to do—or at least, what we should be doing as we walk in the Spirit of Christ. Not for our own glory. Not for personal gain. But for one purpose alone—to lift up His name!

A couple of years ago, I shared this thought on social media, and today, I decided to share it here on the blog:

_______

I could probably write a small book about this, but for what it's worth:

I often struggle with the fact that I sing songs about my faith to a lot of people (not all—but a lot) who already share my perspectives, and this is largely how I make my living. That's just a fact. I'm not ridiculously wealthy, and I do my utmost to live ethically and have an open hand with the ministry and my materials. But I am terrified of being perceived as one who makes bank on the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Of course, "the laborer is worthy of his hire," (1 Timothy 5:18). I'm well aware of all that. But how often do we see the Christian faith being used and manipulated for gross personal or political gain? Too often. Sometimes it's subtle; sometimes blatant.

Over time, I've gotten a better understanding of what it means to be a representative of Christ. I'm not always great at it, but I know this: I don't need a personal brand to do it. I don't need any money or a business plan to do it. I don't need to be remembered for it.

In my book, some of the most convincing Christians are those who don't get a paycheck for it. And that's not a diss on full-time ministers or Christian workers (hello!) It's exciting to think that God could use the most mundane conversation or interaction or seemingly "secular" talent to draw someone to Himself.

"...every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit." (Matthew 7:17, 18)

I'm still challenged by those words.

Are we limiting our potential to share Christ effectively because of preconceived notions about how it "should" be done? Are we held back by the expectations of others—by the voices that say, "That’s not how it’s been done before!"?

And in a world where influence is currency, are we using our platforms—especially here in our Western societies—to truly proclaim the Gospel? Or have we, at times, reduced it to something we peddle for personal gain or recognition?

I hope we choose boldness over comfort, and obedience over extra-biblical tradition. May we be faithful stewards of the message we carry, always lifting His name, not our own.