We gathered outside after respectfully passing by the casket inside the sanctuary. The funeral was for an old farmer who’d lived fully. As one of the good guys, he had served his country and stayed faithful to his wife until he died. He served on various civic boards and was an elder in the Lord’s church because his peers considered him a man of honor and character. He could be ornery, enjoying a good prank without destroying people or property.

Visiting in the unseasonably warm February afternoon with ‘precious-to-me’ women and men, old friends and mentors, someone said to me, “I always admired your faith.”

I was somewhat taken aback because I’d long admired his faith. He’s a fascinating Bible teacher, respected businessman, and committed family man. I’ve watched him live his faith, quietly and confidently.

There’s something to the scripture that tells us to lead quiet, prayerful lives. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

I get caught up trying to live out loud because it is my nature to be talking and leading. Maybe I’m supposed to faith out loud, instead. Can that be done? Can I live in such a way that my faith does the talking?

The older I get, the quieter I’ve become. Notice I said quieter, not quiet. Often, listening seems a more worthwhile pursuit than speaking. Even in this past month, I was asked a direct question, which I answered honestly, but not wisely, I think. Oh, how I wish I’d have been more discreet.

What shows when The Spirit is living in me? Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-Control.

I’m thinking that all these can be done with fewer words and more thoughtful reflection. Obviously, I use social media to spread my message. But, that message needs to be one of the things listed above.

Am I perfect? Hardly. But, I am forgiven and I’m committed to living like it, rather than second-guessing myself and God.

What could we do if we truly believed that the same power that created the universe lives inside us? The same power that parted the Red Sea and that put Esther in the right place at the right time lives in us. The same power that was in the furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego never leaves us. The same power that raised Jesus from the tomb lives in us.

Lives in us.

Yes, it’s time to faith out loud.