As a believer and Christ-follower, you have a deep well of faith and strong convictions, but it can be difficult to know how to live out your faith in the daily practices of your life. James 2:17 tells us, “…faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” Here are 5 simple ways to live like Christ every day.
Go to church
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together…but encouraging one another…” Hebrews 10:25
Get involved with your local congregation. The advancements in technology have made it easier than ever to hear faith-based messages on demand, and this is a wonderful resource to inspire and motivate you throughout the week. However, nothing can take the place of building community with fellow believers in real life. Get involved with small group Bible studies to strengthen your faith. Be in community with others and find ways to use the gifts that God has given you. You will feel encouraged, and in return will go out and encourage others you cross paths with.
Show gratitude
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Make it a daily practice to write out a list of all the things you are grateful for. Once you pause to reflect on the many blessings in your life, you will be energized and encouraged by the ways that God has shown up, and you will want to find ways to bless others. What comes out of our mouths is an overflow from the heart (Luke 6:45), so let gratitude and joy be what flows from us to others.
Be a peacemaker
“So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.” Romans 14:19
In a world that is so divided, be a person who is bringing others together in a spirit of love and cooperation. We are to be the light of the world, so others should look to us and see the love and hope of Jesus radiating in all that we say and do. Love is the greatest commandment, so show love to others in all circumstances. Be kind. Smile at people. Encourage others. Use your words wisely. Give generously.
Pray
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Prayer is the gift of communication with God and is what helps develop a stronger relationship between you and the Heavenly Father. Just as it would be difficult to have a relationship with someone here on earth without any communication, so it is the same with God. He has designed prayer to be a means by which we grow in relationship with Him and it helps to align our hearts with His. Prayer is also a gift that we can share with others by interceding for them with the Father. People are hurting and desperately looking for hope, so we can join with them in their struggles and lead them to the one true source of hope.
Share your testimony
“They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony…” Revelation 12:11
Hearing testimonies of how God has worked in the lives of others is what lights a fire under our faith and spurs us to continue on. So let us share our own testimonies and strengthen the faith of those around us. If we are not sharing how God is moving in our lives, then it’s easy for others to just assume that He isn’t doing anything at all. Think of the Samaritan woman who met Jesus at the well (John 4) and was transformed. What did she immediately do? She went back to her village and shared her testimony, sparking faith in the lives of others. We are also called to share the good news of the gospel and how God is working in our own lives so that others will see and hear and be inspired.
Implementing these 5 easy practices into your daily life will not only encourage you but will spill over and encourage those around you. Living out your faith can start with these simple habits and will grow and strengthen as you walk out your faith here on earth.
