It is not always easy to talk about Christianity, and I’ve found this to be an especially difficult task in college. I have always considered myself to be a strong Christian woman, but being in college has really put my faith to the test. This week I have found myself thanking God for all of the many blessings in my life, and praying to him about some things that have bothered me and been weighing me down lately. So I have decided to make a list of ways that Christians can spread the word of God in modern society.

1. Attend church

Let me be the first to admit that it is difficult to wake up early on the weekend. But going to church is one of the best parts of my week because it is a place you can go and just know that you are surrounded by people with your same values. It is so refreshing, and a great way to start off your week.

"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:20

2. Find a Group of Christian Friends

It is so important to find a group of friends who share your same values and morals. They don't necessarily have to be your best friends, but they should be people who can help you grow stronger in your faith and who will chill with you when everyone else is out partying on a Saturday night. I know that this is not easy, but pray and reach out to people and God will always provide.

"Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble." Proverbs 13:20

3. Don't Talk Poorly About Others

I cannot emphasize enough how important this is. It is so easy to gossip about others in conversation, and I know that I am just as guilty of this. It has, in fact, become so normal that often we don't even think of it as gossip so much as small talk. People may not even notice when you talk badly about others just because it has become so casual. What they will notice, however, is if you choose NOT to participate in such conversations. If you decide to be the one person who speaks up and shuts down the negativity, people will respect you for that and begin to see what being a Christian really means.

"The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, But the mouth of the wicked conceals violence." Proverbs 10:11

4. Be Kind to Everyone

We have all heard it said a million times: “treat others the way you want to be treated.” What if we actually started doing this, though? It seems that in today’s

society everyone is always in such a rush to be somewhere that they can’t even be bothered to hold open a door. This may seem trivial and insignificant, but taking the time out of your busy life to help someone else can make a world of difference. Whether that is simply taking the time to ask “how are you,” or helping someone who has their hands full, or just letting someone pass you on the highway. Kindness can go a long way, and while most of the time it may go unnoticed, don’t do it for recognition. Be kind because that is the Christian way to act.

"Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2

5. Love Your Neighbors and Your Enemies

Loving your enemies is hands down one of the most difficult things to do, but it is also one of the most gratifying. We've all met those people that for whatever reason we just did NOT get along with. There was probably even a valid reason for that hate. Maybe they weren't kind to you, or even hurt you, or maybe they were just plain annoying and you could not stand them. I'm not saying that you have to be best friends with them, in fact, sometimes its best to stay away from them all together because I understand that there are some cruel people in this world filled with hate. Instead of returning hate with hate, however, pray for them. You don’t even have to talk to them, but forgive them for their wrongs and pray. As Christians that is all we can do sometimes, but know that your prayers can go far.

"But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." Matthew 5:44

These are just a few examples of ways that we can spread God's love without making people feel uncomfortable or like they are being attacked. College is a much different environment and there are many people with opposing views and thoughts, and there is nothing wrong with that. As Christians, we must show respect to others while still showing them the love of God through our actions. Ever heard of the phrase "actions speak louder than words"? We have to stop

talking about Christianity, and start acting out Christianity in our day-to-day lives. Maybe it won't be noticed and it won't make a difference, or perhaps it will make all the difference and people will be inspired by your love for Christ. No matter what the results are, there is no chance of losing, so why not give it a try?

"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31