Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:19-20 NIV)

Believers have been given a clear commission to preach the Kingdom of God, disciple nations, and demonstrate the power of God wherever we are. Unfortunately, given the rise of godless legislation that is aimed at crippling our call and silencing our witness, we must engage more strategically within our own community if our voices are to be heard and the cause of Christ to advance.

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The reality is that many of the laws passed at the national level start at home. It is within our own communities that the seeds are sown for broader legislation which directly impacts Christians and the mission of the Church. Whether it is Drag Queens coming to our local library, Pride parades championing their cause in our downtown streets, or local schools stripping us of parental rights, it is the local Christians who must rise up and speak out. Without our neighbors hearing our calls for God-honoring laws in our city, those who preach another gospel will gain the majority. It is no longer enough to pray. We must also speak up and share a higher perspective.

As we put our prayers into action, here are some practical ways to take a stand for your faith and let your voice be heard in your own community.

ENGAGE IN SOCIAL MEDIA – Many communities have their own Facebook page where discussions ensue concerning city life. Look for opportunities to share your faith or bring a Christian perspective to various issues. Sometimes simply stating your own conviction can turn the tide of conversation and remind the crowd there are other voices to be heard.

ATTEND CITY MEETINGS – Most communities invite citizens to various town hall meetings to discuss issues. This is one of the best ways to be heard and represent a Christian perspective. Face to face relationships are powerful assets when trying to change the corporate conscience.

WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR – The local newspaper is a powerful forum to change perceptions. Rather than allowing opposing voices to lead public opinion, send in your response as a follower of Christ. Determine to demonstrate a Christ-like attitude and approach in making an appeal for more God-fearing leadership and activities within the community.

RUN FOR SCHOOL BOARD – Seeing the target on our children to walk away from biblical faith, parents can change the direction of local education by being a voice at the top. Taking a stand for religious freedom and honoring the Judeo-Christian faith in our children’s education is necessary if we are to secure their future and our Christian heritage.

MEET (AND GREET) YOUR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES – Take a moment to stop by the offices of your local representatives who are supporting conservative Christian values and thank them. Offer to pray for them. Consider hosting a prayer luncheon with other community churches to support your local elected officials. The brave Christians who are currently serving in office are on the frontlines of the battle. They greatly value and need our prayers and our support.

PRAYER WALK – Take your prayers to the streets and pray around your schools, your city halls, and your business district. Declare the purposes of God and leave the footprint of God’s blessing wherever you go. Join with believers from other churches to better represent the city-wide body of Christ and speak as “one voice.”

The only reason that anti-faith and anti-God laws continue to be passed are because the Church remains silent. Those who seek to advance these godless ideologies will continue to gain momentum unless we let our voices be heard. Prayerfully consider how the Lord might want to use you in your own community to be a voice that brings life, hope, and a higher call as citizens of another kingdom.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes . . . (Romans 1:16 NIV)

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