When I first started attending bible talks at UNLV, I was a little skeptical about sharing my faith. Society has taught me that sharing is weird and reserved for the door to door Mormons. In my mind, it was taboo. Boy was I wrong.

Digging deeper into the Bible, I began to understand the importance of sharing my faith. God’s love compels me to share. He promises so much and holds true to it. How can I possibly keep that to myself?

“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, 4 by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises,”  (2 Peter 1:3-4).

Sharing is easier said than done. That inkling fear of someone else really knowing your story can be overwhelming. So here’s how to keep pushing even when fear is banging on your door.

1. Pray – Prayer brings me back to God and restores my strength. It reminds me that my story is important and could be what helps save a life.
2. Be God Confident – Trusting the opportunities God has given me to connect with someone can be scary. Sometimes, I feel like I have nothing in common with this other person. But God’s a masterful planner and has already given me the tools to be successful. (1 Timothy 4:12)
3. Have  Jesus Vision – Jesus’ goal here on earth was to reach as many people as he could. He didn’t limit his networking to just individuals that shared a common interest or who he deemed worthy. So why should I? God has accepted me for who I am; why shouldn’t I accept others where they’re at?
4. Be Hopeful – Walking into a conversation with a negative mindset almost insures your failure. Be vulnerable and genuine even when it’s uncomfortable. “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain,” (1 Corinthians 15:58).