Faith in Action: How to Serve, Lead & Share the Gospel

Life seldom unfolds according to our plans. Disappointments, detours, and trials often appear at the most inconvenient moments. Yet as followers of Christ, we find hope in the truth that—no matter how confusing or chaotic things seem—God’s providence remains at work, even when we can’t see it.

One of the clearest examples of this truth unfolds in Acts 28. The apostle Paul had planned to travel to Rome as a free man, continuing his gospel work. Instead, he arrived shipwrecked and imprisoned on the island of Malta. That journey was not what Paul expected—but it was exactly what God had ordained.

If you’re navigating a season of struggle, you’re not alone. Here are seven biblical ways you can actively serve, lead, and share the Gospel amidst your challenges—and how Hope Worth Having can walk alongside you through every storm.

1. Trust God’s Hidden Plan

Paul’s detour to Rome wasn’t a setback—it was God’s strategic redirect that would shape history. Likewise, our hardships may conceal a deeper purpose we can’t yet see.

Romans 8:28 reminds us: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him…” Even in our pain, we can trust that God is writing a greater story.

Practical application:

• Pause in prayer to ask, “Lord, what are you doing in this moment?”
• Keep a journal of spiritual “detours” that later revealed deeper vows of faith.
• Surround yourself with trusted believers who point you toward God’s bigger picture.

2. Let Your Service Shine in Suffering

When trials hit, serving others may be the last thing on your mind—yet it’s often at those times that our hearts can be most compassionate.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Even small acts—a conversation, a meal, a listening ear—can become living sermons. As one devotional puts it, “service is our greatest testimony”.

Try this:

• Serve one person in quiet, anonymous kindness.
• Combine ministry and strength—volunteer in ways that don’t drain you but remind you God is present.
• Reflect afterward on how serving brought healing or focus during your trial.

3. Lead by Example, Even When You’re Struggling

Leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about faithfulness. Faith leaders wise in faith aim to lead not by flawless performance, but by willing obedience. Weathered leaders walking through storms often resonate deeper than smooth speakers ever could.

1 Corinthians 11:1 says, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”

Ways to lead through hardship:

• Be transparent—share both your struggles and how God meets you in them.
• Model trusted rhythms in the midst of chaos—prayer, Scripture meditation, community.
• Mentor someone younger in faith—your journey could become their anchor.

4. Pray Boldly and Often

Prayer isn’t always eloquent—but it is powerful. The gospel advances not through human eloquence, but through dependence on the Holy Spirit.

How often have gospel seeds been sown through prayerful hearts before any words were spoken?

Cultivate persistent prayer by:

• Keeping a “faith map” of people or situations you’re praying for.
• Starting your day with honest conversation, “Lord, I can’t do this—but You can.”
• Listening—invite the Holy Spirit to guide your words, your posture, your empathy.

5. Share Your Story—Softly, Bravely

Your faith story is uniquely compelling. Try to evangelize as much as you can—often, people are truly drawn more by your story than by your arguments.

Clarity emerges when we share our journey of faith—the doubts, the decision, the difference.

Simple steps:

• Write down two-minute and ten-minute versions of your faith journey.
• Ask, “Would you like to hear why my faith matters so much?” when safe to open a conversation.
• Listen when others share—how might their story invite you to speak of hope?

6. Build Trust Before You Share Truth

Trust is the foundation of gospel conversations. As NewChurches.com outlines, effective sharing follows a path of relationship → trust → Word → invitation

Your neighbor may not respond to theology—but they will respond to authentic kindness and consistency.

Grow trust by:

• Showing up in people’s lives—volunteer, get to know them, value them.
• Being consistent in how you live and love—not perfect, but intentional.
• Asking thoughtful questions that show you care about their story, not your sermon.

7. Extend the Gospel Invitation with Grace

Once hearts open, the natural next step is invitation. After decades of relationship and trust-building, Paul lovingly invited—reminding the Philippian jailer to believe in Christ.

This isn’t scripted performance—it flows when we’ve built trust and followed Jesus.

How to invite with gentleness:

• Reflect gospel truths simply: “God loves you,” “Your life matters,” “Jesus can be your peace.”
• Ask gently: “Would you like to explore more of this hope?” Let it feel natural, not pressuring.
• Offer resources—like Hope Worth Having podcasts, devotionals, or a simple Bible verse.

8. Celebrate Divine Detours

Paul’s unintended journey to Rome created a foundation for the global church—one God-directed event shaped history.

When we trust God through difficulty, our stories become divine detours—moments God repurposes for His glory.

Reflect on this:

• Write down ways God has turned your setbacks into setups.
• Share your “divine detour” with someone—you might ignite hope.
• Trust that God is still writing unseen chapters and that your next turn may be the greatest faith adventure yet.

Standing With You Through Your Storm

At Hope Worth Having, we believe your current trouble doesn’t signal abandonment—it’s a gateway to God’s redemptive work. Through prayer, teaching, community, and worship, you don’t have to face your challenges alone.

Anchor yourself in truth. Let your service shine. Trust God’s providence. Invite Him to write even your roughest chapters for His glory.