As we step into 2025, the world around us is marked by uncertainty, change, and a deep hunger for hope. People are searching for truth, purpose, and something solid to hold on to amid the chaos. The recent elections, the societal shifts, and even the events of recent months, including hateful crimes, acts of terrorism, and murderous attacks, have revealed something crucial: hearts are yearning for Jesus, even if they don’t know it yet.

For Christians, this is not a moment to retreat in fear or complacency. This is a call to action. Jesus told His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few” (Matthew 9:37, HCSB). The same is true today. Now is the time to rise as leaders in faith, stepping boldly into the fields that are ready for harvest. Let this devotional inspire and equip you to lead in faith and seize this divine opportunity.

Leadership in faith doesn’t require a title, a pulpit, or a church office. It’s about being the light of Christ wherever God has placed you—your workplace, your neighborhood, your family, and beyond. As Jesus declared, “You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14, HCSB).

Faith leadership means embodying Christ’s love, standing firm in His truth, and courageously sharing the gospel with others. The world is watching how we live and respond to the challenges of this age. When we lead with faith, we point others to the hope, peace, and salvation found in Jesus.

James reminds us of the brevity of life: “You don’t even know what tomorrow will bring—what your life will be! For you are like vapor that appears for a little while, then vanishes” (James 4:14, HCSB). The events of recent months have underscored this truth. Life is fragile, and eternity is real.

The decisions we make today—whether to speak about Jesus or remain silent—carry eternal consequences for the people around us. Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 6:2 (HCSB) should stir our hearts: “Look, now is the acceptable time; now is the day of salvation.”

We cannot afford to wait. The harvest is ripe, and God is calling His people to step into the mission field.

Here are actionable steps to take as we answer the call to lead in faith in 2025:

1. Share Your Testimony

Your personal story of how Jesus has transformed your life is one of the most powerful tools you have. Revelation 12:11 (HCSB) says, “They conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”

Sharing your testimony doesn’t require eloquence or perfection; it requires authenticity. Be open about how God has worked in your life, and invite others to experience His grace for themselves.

2. Extend Invitations

The simple act of inviting someone to church, a Bible study, or a Christian event can change their life forever. In John 1:46, Nathanael questioned if anything good could come from Nazareth, and Philip replied, “Come and see.”

We don’t need to have all the answers—we just need to bring people to Jesus. Trust that the Holy Spirit will work in their hearts.

3. Live Out Your Faith

Faith leadership begins with living a life that reflects Christ. People are drawn to authenticity, humility, and integrity. Colossians 3:17 (HCSB) encourages us: “Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

Let your actions speak as loudly as your words. Show kindness, patience, and love, even when it’s difficult. When others see Jesus in you, they’ll want to know more.

4. Be Bold and Unashamed

Paul’s declaration in Romans 1:16 (HCSB) should be ours as well: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes.”

Yes, there will be resistance. Jesus warned us, “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me before it hated you” (John 15:18, HCSB). But we are called to stand firm, knowing that we are pleasing God, not man (Galatians 1:10).

5. Pray for Open Doors and Courage

Prayer is the foundation of all effective faith leadership. Paul asked the Colossians to pray for him in this way: “At the same time, pray also for us that God may open a door to us for the message, to speak the mystery of the Messiah” (Colossians 4:3, HCSB).

Pray for opportunities to share Jesus, for the courage to speak boldly, and for the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of those you encounter.

What Happens When We Lead in Faith?

When Christians rise as leaders in faith, God moves powerfully. Consider these biblical examples:

• The Early Church: The apostles boldly preached the gospel, even under persecution. Their faith leadership led to explosive growth in the church (Acts 2:41).
• The Woman at the Well: After encountering Jesus, she shared her testimony with her entire town, leading many to believe in Him (John 4:39).
• Paul and Silas in Prison: Their worship and witness in a dark situation led to the salvation of a jailer and his household (Acts 16:25-34).

God is still in the business of changing lives. When we step out in faith, He uses us to draw people to Himself.

Leading in faith is not always easy, but it is always worth it. Remember these promises as you go:

• God is with you: “And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20, HCSB).
• God equips you: “His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3, HCSB).
• God brings the harvest: “Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up” (Galatians 6:9, HCSB).

The world is looking for hope, truth, and love—whether they realize it or not. As Christians, we have the answer: Jesus Christ. In 2025, let us commit to leading in faith, sharing the gospel boldly, and pointing people to the only One who can save.

The harvest is ripe. The time is now. Will you step into the field? Will you lead in faith? Together, let’s make this year a year of transformation, revival, and kingdom impact. To God be the glory.