Do you think I should include my faith in my newsletter? Some do, and some don’t. Perfect. I don’t make people read it, and if they want to read the feature article without opening the God Blog, they are free to do so.
It was a big leap of faith for me to start writing a God Blog. Its purpose is for people to see behind my journey to have a closer relationship to God. I don’t pretend to speak for Him, unless He puts something on my heart.
I don’t have it all figured out. I’m not an authority. I’m just trying to live a life worth watching. I am hoping to inspire others to do the same. I pray for guidance before I write.
Because of my talking about faith in my newsletter, I recently got a private email that said,
“Faith is, after all, just a matter of human opinion. Keep the newsletter secular. Really. I admire and respect you. I’m saying this in the most constructive way. Your newsletter is truly global.”
That’s cool. Our job is not to please everyone. It is to be open and real. Authenticity inspires. In fact, if we do please everyone, we may not be making a deep enough impact. Our message may be too vanilla. Faith had a lot to do with my success; why wouldn’t I talk about it?
Several years ago, I remember hearing feedback from a national board member in the speaking industry. She told me that her personal opinion of a rock star speaker was tainted because he had put his testimony on his website. It was not a deep conversation, yet it left a profound impression on me. It inspired me. It helped me have the courage to do this.
I remember hearing Zig Ziglar say that we are told not to speak about religion, but he also said that there will be a day when we will not be able to talk any longer.
Here is the cool part. I know I may lose some readers because I include the God Blog, but I may also gain rapport with others because I do.
At the end of my life, I don’t have to answer to the naysayers. I do have to answer to God. I don’t think losing some subscribers is going to hurt me on judgment day. In a way, it is a way to test my own faith. I’ve had some really cool comments and stories because I have been willing to put it out there. Please, keep ‘em coming.
I believe our job as presenters is not just to give inspiring speeches, but, more importantly, to lead inspiring lives.
Amen.
Thank you, God, for Truth, Love, and Laughter,
Darren
It is tough for many of us to express our faith in God. we know we’re going to get barbs from those who don’t believe. I know I am commanded to preach the gospel. And, I do it–it is up to God whom He draws to Himself. We just have to put one foot in front of the other; being conformed more and more to His Son as we travel through life to our ultimate reward. I want to hear God say: “Well done good and faithful servant.” Be encouraged and thank you for your courage.
You GO, Darren! I read your God blog every week and am inspired by your journey. I think you handle it just rght.
I LIKE that you talk about God. Thank you! If it weren’t for God’s blessings, we would have nothing. So glad you acknowledge HIM.
Liz
Keep up the God talk, Darren! I am loving it. This is my first time reading this blog and I’ll be looking forward to reading more. The world needs more of this. Authentic, inspiring talk.