One of the greatest things about being a Christian is the fact that we are walking advertisements for our faith. Our main focus is reflecting Jesus Christ in everything we do. From the way we speak, to the things we do and even the way we dress.
“Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some person ever reads.” ― William J. Toms.
When Faith And Fashion Collide - Our Story
Called by God
I am blessed to be surrounded by a group of ministry minded people. I guess that's what it's like being part of a church. Unlike some of my friends though, I have never felt called to go and live in a remote country as a missionary, or work on the front line as a doctor or nurse, helping people and saving lives. Nor have I ever felt called to full time ministry as a Pastor or Bible worker and for a long time I felt like I something was missing.
Don't get me wrong, I have always been involved in some sort of ministry. God has blessed me with a creative mind, so I decided to utilise my talents in that way, mostly through song. Although I love singing, it often begins and ends in just one day, leaving me feeling unfulfilled for the rest of the week. I knew I had more to offer, I just didn't know what or how.
Fashion has always been my thing, but in terms of the wider church it can be seen as a taboo subject. "Clothing shouldn't be too elaborate!", "We should spend our money on better things than clothes!", "What we wear doesn't matter...". These are all things I'd heard said time and time again about the industry I'd always dreamed of working in.
It got me thinking though. Why can't fashion and faith collide? If God could use Moses, a shepherd with a rod (Exodus 4:2-3) to deliver His people, if God could use Esther, a captive to stand up for His people (Esther 4:16) and if he could use a boy, with a packed lunch for one, (John 6:9) to feed His people then why couldn't He use fashion and me?
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. ― Matthew 5:14-16
Inspired by God
That's where it all began. If you look in your wardrobe, I'm sure you will find a range of different items from different brands. Each product has a label, a design signature, pointing back to it's maker. I see so many people bothered about getting a little dirt on their Air Force 1's, proud to keep them looking crisp and white, like the original state. All the while becoming a walking advert for one of the greatest sportswear companies on earth, Nike.
What if we created that same buzz around Jesus?
What if you were so excited to rock your new T-shirt to town that simply said: 'Pray more worry less, God is in full control'?
What if your everyday bag had the words written in big letter on the front: 'The gospel is made for sharing'?
Think about it. We could reach so many people, if we were just more intentional about how we reached them.
Used by God
Although going to church frequently and having a devotional life might be normal to you, there are people in the world who have never set foot in a church, never opened, let alone owned a Bible and some live in places that have never even heard of Jesus.
There are people in your life God has placed around you because you're the best person to reach them. Your hobby, your job, your family, your friendship circle are all places God can use as the catalyst for your ministry. Being a Christian is a whole lifestyle.
So the Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?” He said, “A rod.” ― Exodus 4:2
Like God asked Moses, I'm asking right now, what do you have in your hand? What can you do today that will make difference right where you are?
Stay Lit Apparel is not just a brand but a movement. We are here to inspire people, like you, to be bold in your faith and take the leap, wear something that represents who God is, and sparks conversations with people who may never have had the opportunity to talk about Jesus otherwise.
Here's the challenge - head over to our Christian Apparel page, purchase the item that inspires you the most and wear it proud. I dare you. Let's see what God does through you. Stay Lit.
I'm ready for the testimonies, so meet me in the comments section!
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