The most difficult part of starting something new is taking the first step.
Whether it’s a job, school, sport or relationship, the beginning can be intimidating. There’s so much uncertainty involved. Questions of doubt can run circles around your brain and paralyze you. Before you know it, you’ve missed out on the joys a fresh adventure can bring with it.
I know this firsthand. For the first 34 years of my life, for example, I had never worked out with a group of people. I preferred to exercise alone where no one could see me and judge me or my technique. (I‘ve also struggled with body image issues since I was a preteen.)
All that changed in 2021. After reaching the heaviest weight of my life, I lost 40 pounds in four months — but my progress soon plateaued. I needed something to take it to the next level, so when I found out about F3 (a free men’s workout group called “Fitness, Fellowship and Faith®”), I decided to give it a try.
Not only did I lose another 30 pounds in three months, but I gained more friends and accountability than I ever had before. Three-plus years later, F3 is a huge part of my daily routine today. But it wouldn’t have happened if I didn’t take that first uncomfortable (and frankly terrifying) step of approaching a group of strangers to work out with them.
Sharing the Gospel can be similar. Most Christians have a desire to talk with someone about their faith, but they don’t know where to start. According to a 2022 survey conducted by Lifeway Research, “Forty-two percent (of Christians) agree that it is scary to share how to become a Christian with a nonbeliever.” Also, the same survey shows that two-thirds of Christians are not familiar with any methods for telling others about Jesus.
In light of this, here are five simple ways to share the Gospel in your everyday life.
1. Find Something You Have in Common
In F3, we end each workout with a “COT” (Circle of Trust). This is when the man leading the workout shares words of wisdom, encouragement, leadership advice or a devotion. After leading more than 120 workouts, I’ve had lots of opportunities to share my faith with many men, including agnostics and atheists. And they listen to what I have to say because I’ve built their trust by doing difficult things with them.
Likewise, you can use your circles of influences and similarities with others to open the door to a faith conversation. Build relationships using things you have in common — whether it’s movies, music or current events — and wait for the right opportunity to speak up. You might have a bigger connection with someone than you think!
2. Ask a Thought-Provoking Question
If there’s one thing true about most human beings, it’s that we all have opinions (and often love sharing them). This means that asking a deep question can open the door to further discussion. Try something like:
This can be an especially good tactic if you’re in a situation where you’re waiting with someone, such as in a line or on public transportation. The right questions can lead to a faith discussion without it feeling like a sermon.
3. Offer to Pray for Them
Prayer is a powerful way to demonstrate God’s love in action. If you notice a friend, family member, co-worker or even stranger who seems like they might be struggling, offer to pray for them. If they say yes, then do it right then and there! Even people who aren’t religious often appreciate the kindness behind your gesture and will be more willing to talk to you. Plus, God will give you the words they need to hear.
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God,” (Romans 8:26-27).
4. Share Your Story
Many don’t want to be vulnerable unless someone else is vulnerable first. You can do this by sharing your story with others when opportunities arise. Should the topic of struggles, hope or purpose pop up, be courageous and share how Jesus has impacted your life. It doesn’t have to be dramatic or complex. Just be real and authentic and let God’s light shine through you. If you’re stumped on what to say, here are some good places to start:
5. Do a Random Act of Kindness
Finally, starting a faith conversation doesn’t have to begin with anything you say. Performing an act of kindness like opening a door or simply listening to someone can make them question what’s different about you. Show love to strangers, serve and give without expecting anything in return; be someone who stands out from the world. When people notice your unusually kind behavior, they’ll often ask why — and that’s your opportunity to share the reason for your hope (1 Peter 3:15). Love God and love others and you’ll be doing your part for God’s kingdom.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to attend seminary to be a good witness. Anyone can start a conversation about faith. Whether through a question, a story, a prayer or an act of kindness, you can help others see Jesus in everyday moments.
Daniel has been writing professionally for nearly 20 years, authoring HOPE for the Hurting Marriage and several other books about addictions, mental health issues and spiritual warfare. He, his wife and two children live in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
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