Being true to yourself, even when people don't want you to be

It can be difficult to walk openly in the Lord these days. Our modern society seems to espouse tolerance for every belief and lifestyle under the sun – except for traditional faith. It's seen as stodgy, backwards, even naive. While everyone is entitled to their opinion, and we're told to just let comments roll off our backs, it can be hard sometimes. It's tough to always be the nail that sticks out, the odd man out.

It can encourage you to be silent. To keep it to yourself. To stop being "that guy” in the room.

But we can't do that. God calls on us to speak up, to share His word. As it says in Matthew 5:15-16 "15, Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16, In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

It might be tough. But we have a duty as Christians to share the word openly. To speak up when we see injustice or evil. People may roll their eyes or snicker behind your back, but you'll know you're doing the right thing.

Of course, there is a balancing act to it. It's fine to be polite. You don't always need to be on the warpath, slinging fire and brimstone at all times (in fact, that's liable to do more harm than good when it comes to sharing the word).

While the Bible teaches us the importance of vocal faith and open belief, it also teaches us the importance of moderation, of being the bigger man or woman. It's fine to avoid a large disagreement when you can, or to let the occasional thoughtless comment slide, to turn the other cheek as it were.

But there is a line. When you find yourself constantly biting your tongue for the sake of others, that's not good. When you feel like you are being dishonest to who you are to fit in, that's not right. When you are constantly working hard not to step on eggshells or create any waves, that's more than just being polite. That's hiding your light under a basket.

Remember, people didn't always like what Jesus and the Disciples had to say. While some people would welcome them into their homes, others cursed them and jeered and plotted behind their backs. But did that stop them? Did Jesus worry that He was causing a commotion? That He was ruffling feathers? No (in fact, you could ask some temple vendors and money changers about His position when it comes to causing a commotion).

Be polite. Be respectful. But never hide who you are and the thing you believe in. Not everyone is always going to like what you say or do. That's fine. In the end, life isn't about seeking the approval or others, or always getting along. It's about your walk with the Lord. As long as you focus on that, the rest is just noise.