Be Bold in Sharing Your Faith: People Are More Receptive Than You Think
- Natasha Klingenstein
- Sep 15, 2025
- 4 min read
"Don't talk about religion or politics!"
We've all heard that saying, commonly attributed to Mark Twain. It's ingrained in us that bringing up these topics will only raise tension within a group.
But what if that wasn't the case?
Be Bold in Speaking About Your Faith
When I first launched Paddocks&Praise, I had no idea how people would respond. Faith isn't exactly a hot topic at the in-gate of a horse show.
I'll be honest. I was intimidated about speaking up on a public platform about my beliefs.
We live in a world that says religion is private and personal. That if you're going to share it, it should only be with others who agree with you or are at least known to be receptive.
But I see two things wrong with that mindset:
Biblical Accuracy
Jesus commands his followers to be bold in their faith, sharing it with everyone.
Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations,
baptizing them in the name of
the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 28:19-20
Lack of Connection
If we never bring up our faith, how can we grow our friendships and community?
How can we find other believers and encourage one another?
How can we be available to others with questions or those who want to know more about a relationship with Jesus?
Our beliefs are not something we should hide.
We are called to speak boldly about our relationship with Jesus, while also being sensitive, respectful, and intentional with how we bring it up.
How to Share Your Faith Organically
*insert blow horn*
Hellfire and brimstone!!!! Repent or be thrown into the Lake of Fire!
Although that's a preaching style used by some, it's not a style I would recommend.
What was your initial response reading that?
For me, I would want to stop reading this post and balk against it.
While I do believe the Biblical principals of hell and that the only way to get to Heaven is through turning to Jesus, I don't believe that trying to scare people into professing faith is the right way to go.
Especially in todays culture, fear-based tactics tend to turn people away from faith.
So how do we bring up Jesus in a way that feels authentic and invitational?
7 Ways to Share Your Faith
Live it out - When your life reflects what you believe, others will notice. They'll wonder what is different about you.
Share your testimony - Tell your story and how God has changed your life.
Ask questions - Show interest in others. Allow them to share as much (or as little) as they feel comfortable.
Share a scripture - Offering a verse can be encouraging and helps you gauge their openness.
Pray for someone - Most people (whether they believe or not) accept prayer as a caring and thoughtful gesture.
Wear a cross or Christian symbol - It provides an opening for someone to comment and start a conversation.
Invite someone to church or an event - Extending the invitation is a low-pressure way to let them choose whether they would like to attend.
People Are More Receptive to Faith Discussions Than You Think
One of the biggest take-aways I've seen through P&P is this:
People are open to talking about faith.
Now, nearly every day at the home farm or away at a show, I am having a meaningful conversation with someone about Jesus, the Bible, my faith, their beliefs, and how it all correlates to the world.
Often, it's usually others who bring it up first!
The conversations are engaging, respectful, curious, genuine, and life giving.
I'm continuously amazed by how God is using P&P to encourage our community.
The growth, the openness, the conversations... they're all HIM!
So Praise God and thank you, Jesus!
A Cool Story
I recently had Paddocks&Praise embroidered on my jumper pads and I use them whenever I'm at a horse show.
As I was walking by a group of women last week wearing one of the pads, I overheard someone say, "Paddocks&Praise".
To be honest, there was a moment of hesitation where I questioned what I heard. Did they really say that? Should I say something back?
As I kept walking, a lie that crept into my mind that I've let derail me in the past.
"No one is going to care what you have to say."
But thanks to my mental training and spiritual discernment, that lie no longer has a hold on me. I was able to shut it down almost as soon as it popped in my head.
Spinning my horse around, I walked back over to the group of women and asked, "Did someone say Paddocks&Praise? Have you heard of it?"
The rest is history. I met fellow believers in that moment, had great conversation, gained insight into their experiences of faith in the industry, and have grown the P&P community.
All from a simple embroidery on my saddle pad and the willingness to trust God and engage with others.
Action Step
Now it's your turn. Talk to someone this week about your faith.
Maybe you're confident in your faith and love Jesus.
Maybe you're still trying to figure things out.
Maybe you don't believe and wonder why others do.
Wherever you are in this season of your life, share it with someone you don't typically talk to about spiritual things.
Choose one of the "7 Ways to Share Your Faith" and use it at least one time this week.
Be aware of the response of the other person. You'll quickly know whether they are receptive or not.
Embrace and enjoy the conversation. Keep an open mind and allow the other person freedom to share their beliefs in return.
I will be praying for you all this week, that God opens up the right opportunity to share your faith and that it will be a blessing and encouragement for you and the other person.
Contact Me!
I’d love to hear how your conversations go! Visit our site at https://www.paddocksandpraise.com/the-inspiration to fill out the contact form, or send me an e-mail to natasha@paddocksandpraise.com.
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