In a World Full of Khaki—Choose to Sparkle

I saw this saying in a local shop in Colorado. I haven’t seen it again but this saying, this thought, this concept stuck with me. Isn’t this what God asks of us? Doesn’t He want us to shine in a monochromatic world? 

Why do you write? More specifically, why do you write for Christian publications? Is your motive and goal simply the act of having written and the accomplishment of being published? Or does your reason have deeper purpose to write as a means of sharing the good news of Christ’s death and resurrection? 

I told God I would obey Him and write the message or story He’s placed within me. But I told Him, “When it comes to marketing, that’s all on Him.” Have you ever thought or even said this?

I find myself contemplating this mindset that’s been presented to me by many authors over the years. If I’m being honest, I confess this point of view has left me shaking my head in disbelief on far too many occasions. 

I can’t help but wonder what would have happened if Moses had taken this same approach when it came to presenting the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1–17). What if he had said to God, “I’ll write these down. but you need to take care of letting the Israelites know.” In Exodus 20:18–19 the Israelites beg Moses to tell them what God said on the mountain. They feared they’d literally die if God spoke to them directly. I believe God calls us not only to write for Him, but also to be His spokesperson. 

I love this verse in Matthew 5:16, “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” (ESV). Let’s put it in proper context. Matthew 5:14–15 provides us greater understanding. “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house” (NLT).

Let’s break this down into marketing terms. You and your message are the light. Platform is the structure we need to build and stand upon. Why? So we are able to give light to our audience—“everyone in the house.” We are called to shine in the darkness. We need to sparkle so that others will praise our Father in heaven.

I want to shine brightly for my Savior. I want to tell as many people as possible about my Redeemer. I don’t want to be khaki. I want to shine. I want to sparkle for the glory of God. Won’t you join me?

Question:  What is your greatest challenge with marketing your message in written or spoken form?  Please share one helpful way you’ve been able to showcase your presentations or your book in a God-honoring way?

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