Should I Shut Up About Jesus?
Some time ago, I wrote a blog post about the true secret of my success in business – Jesus Christ. It’s one of the most popular posts on my blog. In that post, I explained that I would no longer separate my business life from my faith life.
I wrote another post about the 7 Mountains of Culture. It’s about how followers of Jesus should aspire to places of influence in those areas. Again, this is one of the most visited posts on my blog.
I feared that my blog and business would suffer as a result of this “mixing” of the sacred and the “secular”. That was not the case – the opposite was true. Those who did not want to hear about God went their way – they didn’t stick around.
But recently, my blog has grown in readership, and my podcast audience has blossomed. And a new wave of criticism against me has arisen. The basic message: “Ray, shut up about Jesus, and stick to writing about marketing and business.”
Sometimes these criticisms are “colorful”, and emotional. Even hateful. One person called me “an old, white, Jesus-y man in a suit”.
A “friend” in the online business world wrote about me, and called me “one of the prosperity gospel a—holes.” Attacks like this never cause me to reconsider my position. They are not based on reason, but rather on anger and bitterness. These people I pray for and immediately forgive.
Some of my critics are more reasonable. Their logic makes a certain amount of sense. These I consider. I have learned enough humility to be open to the possibility that my critics are right. I can learn from constructive criticism. Here are a couple of examples:
What about these criticisms (and others like them)? What about Christian brothers and sisters who have criticism for me? Some suggest that I could reach more people for Christ if I were more “covert” in my “ministry”. Are they right?
I don’t think so.
After careful consideration, I have decided to stick with my “faith forward” approach. Here are 3 reasons I do not hide my faith:
- The Lord himself gave me this assignment. I’ve told my story elsewhere, so I won’t recount it here. I heard from God that he has enough “pastors in pulpits”. What he needs are more “ministers in the marketplace”. I’m assigned to empower believers and teach them to prosper with purpose. That mission has not changed.
- My mission is not the mission of all Christian business people. There is a place for business people who are less “faith forward” or even “covert” believers. I don’t believe most believers should have the same kind of ministry as me. A friend once described what I do as “a ministry disguised as a business”. It may be more accurate to say I have a ministry that functions through the vehicle of my business.
- My blog, podcast, and teachings appeal to nonbelievers, not just Christians. I believe this is because I don’t exclude anyone. I don’t mandate that my readers and listeners share my beliefs. I don’t try to change their minds. I am open about what I believe, and how it plays out in my business – but I don’t condemn those with other beliefs who come under my tent. I love people, whether they are Christians or not. I don’t judge people who are different from me – even those who are on the opposite end of the belief spectrum. I want to help people with their businesses, regardless of their beliefs.
If you’re a Christian and an entrepreneur, I don’t assume you should take the same approach as me. You should do what God is leading you to do.
[clickToTweet tweet=”God has enough ‘pastors in pulpits’. He’s looking for ministers in the marketplace.” quote=”God has enough ‘pastors in pulpits’. He’s looking for ministers in the marketplace.”]
So, if you’re hoping I’ll be less “Jesus-y”, I’m afraid you’ll be disappointed. That’s okay. Maybe I’m just not your “cup of tea”.
[reminder]Now that you’ve heard my rationale, what do you think? Have I reached the right conclusion? Or do you think I should shut up about Jesus?[/reminder]
As a Christian who loves Jesus, Ray, I LOVE what you do and the lessons you share. I will say that the first time I listened to the Podcast, though, it caught me off-guard when you brought in Jesus because nothing in the Podcast title/description/etc. alluded to Jesus.
I LOVE what you do Ray as a Christian and entrepreneur and am trying to do more of it myself, but I would agree that it’s fair criticism to say people will be caught off guard when they land on the Podcast and hear Jesus when all they’re expecting is a secular show on Copywriting, etc.
For me, it took some getting used to and again, I love it as a follower or Jesus, but I can see why a secular audience gets caught off guard.
You could, I guess, re-brand the Podcast title/description a bit to let people know you’re going to deliver a mix of marketing, copywriting and faith/inspiration to entrepreneurs and business owners, etc., if you want to be more “clear” up front.
At the same time, like one of the critics said, it’s YOUR show, and ultimately you should do what your heart tells you to!
I walk that line too, and also strive to be a “minister in the marketplace” – and it’s been a struggle at times to find the balance for sure. I think I tend to overshare Jesus in many instances and I’d always rather err on that side of the fence! 🙂
Ray, I appreciate you, love you as a brother in Christ and love your transparency and honesty and heart for God! Keep it up!
Thank you John, that means a lot.
I totally understand the rationale of folks both for and against what you do. From a PURELY BUSINESS standpoint, there’s a lot of data that supports not being so… “Jesus forward?” for believers. However, there’s also a TON of proof out there that folks who have a polarizing nature (whether by design or naturally… and clearly you being so open about your beliefs is polarizing) can be massively successful — so much so that they often surpass the success of those with similar skillsets, budgets, etc etc etc.
That being said — one of the most beautiful things about entrepreneurship is that you get to run the show. You get to be who you are, run your business how you want, deliver the message how you want. Sometimes that will bite you. Others, it’ll be the best thing you’ve done.
I say — be who you are and do what you do. It’s what you feel God is calling you to do, so do it.
I’ll add one other point to this. Although now I’m a believer in Christ, that’s a relatively new thing for me. It’s only been somewhere around a year. Yet, even prior to that, the most listened to, read, and watched “mentor” in my world was Dave Ramsey, a very “faith forward” entrepreneur. I did not believe in Jesus, yet I listened to his show daily. I read his books almost daily. I watched videos. I dove deeply into his information. And even though we didn’t share the same faith, I connected with so much of his teaching that I chose to just move past the parts that didn’t resonate with me.
So… it would be REALLY wise for the folks who don’t believe in Jesus to still learn from you, because — even setting aside your spirituality — you’re one heck of a smart guy. You’ve got a ton of great wisdom to share with the world. And if someone can’t look past the parts of your world that they don’t agree with, they’re likely going to struggle finding anyone to follow (does anyone really agree with EVERYTHING that ANY OTHER PERSON says?).
🙂 Keep it up!
I totally echo Tim’s sentiments in his last paragraph. Going the other way, I’ve gotten my share of odd looks from other believers along the lines of, “You did an interview with him/her? Is he/she a believer? What about this idea they shared that one time over here?”
If I first had to agree with every thought my guests ever articulated as a prerequisite for inviting them on, I wouldn’t have anybody to interview. Do please keep it up, Ray!
And Tim, I had no idea how recent your conversion was. Is “congratulations” the right word? 🙂
Jeff, you made my day. Thank you very much, my friend.
Well stated, Tim. I’m very pleased to hear about your new relationship with Christ. And thank you so much for your kind words. It means a lot to me that someone of your stature would show up to make a comment on this topic.
Ray,
I LOVE it when you talk about Jesus! He is the reason for my success and I too am following the same path of merging my business life with my faith. Just haven’t found the right mix of words to do it yet.
But I love watching you share God’s message of unconditional love.
Thank you so much Christina.
Good for you.
I love that you are so transparent about God and your Lord Jesus Christ in your business. I know for me … if not for God, I wouldn’t have a business.
Great post.
And I don’t think anyone should ever ‘shutup’ about their beliefs. You’re free to state what you believe, and your readers are free to respond how they wish. As long as it’s in a nonviolent manner.
Keep spreading the message. The world needs it more than ever.
No way keep going it is nice to see someone who understands business is not a sin
I love that you’re so open about your faith. As a fellow believer I have started to listen to you more because you have been more open about your beliefs and the addition to faith Fridays is a great one! I listen to many podcast and in my opinion there are too many world views and not enough Christian views displayed. If there were we would be a better society for it. Keep at it Ray! May God bless you greatly because of it!
Thanks for all of what you said, and I’m especially glad to hear you are getting some benefit from Fridays.
Please DO NOT SHUT UP about Jesus! You are a very powerful light in world. I appreciate your wisdom in business. You are making a wonderful impact on the world. I am blessed beyond measure by you.Whatever you do please DO NOT STOP! Carmen Williams
“Ministers in the Marketplace”, I like that. I admire your confidence in your mission to help people, all the while coming from a place of honesty in your faith. You don’t need to appeal to everyone — as I’m sure you know — but rather make an impact on the people who stick around 🙂
Great work, Ray! I hope to meet you at Social Media Marketing World 2016 in San Diego.
Cheers,
Brad Hussey
Thanks Brad, I look forward to seeing you in San Diego as well!
I think you’re meaning to be controversial. Here’s the rub, you should be more upfront about what’s about to happen. When I listen to Wayne Dyer, I know it’s faith based life coaching. So do non Christians who swear by him. Nobody is mad at Wayne Dyers faith based coaching because Wayne Dyer is a faith based coach. You’d probably have fewer detractors if there was understanding from jump
I appreciate the feedback Sandra. Thank you.
as I said on earlier I am not religious and look at the Bible maybe more as in a historic way. But what I learned over the last few years about the internet and
what every one teaches is, be yourself, sound like you not like a copy. And that you certainly do, I love listening to you, because you make sense.
Thank you once more for todays message.
No, don’t shut up about Jesus.
After all, unless the Lord doesn’t build the house, the builders labor in vain 🙂
Ray,
the best brands are authentic brands. This is who you are, stick to it. You would probably feel bad if you didn’t.
However, it might help some if you were more clear about your beliefs before you initiate a relationship rather than after. I remember laughs about pugs in the copywriting academy marketing webinars, nothing about Jesus. Not that I mind, but others will.
Kind regards,
Pascal
Dear Ray,
Don’t you ever consider changing your message! God has given us each a specific calling and you are doing a beautiful job relating God’s word with best business practices. You are a great teacher and marketer but more importantly, a great Christian who cares about people which is not the norm in the IM world. Too many marketers focus on the money or the next big payday and not on becoming someone who is genuine and honest. They constantly go after the next big thing hoping it will make them some quick money. We never really learn who they are, what they stand for and whether they truly care about the people they sell to.
After nearly dying in an automobile accident in September of 2014, I completely changed the focus of my own online business. I turned everything over to Jesus and let him show me what I needed to do and where to put my energies into. Because of Him, I signed a book deal with Morgan James Publishing late last year and now my business is finally on track to help make my dreams come true. I am in the self-help genre where I use God’s teachings to help people change their lives for the better and live a life of meaning and great love. I’ve even decided to start a podcast called “Transformational Love” so you see, don’t worry what others say, keep God in your heart and keep your message strong. It resonates with the people who need it the most.
May God continue to bless you and your business.
Sincerely,
Barry Ferguson – “Transformational Author”
Thank you Barry. That sounds like an interesting book, and podcast. I appreciate your encouraging words.
Ray, I am of the opinion that you should speak your truth… it fuels who you are… and although I am not a traditional Christian, hopefully I am mature enough not to be intimidated by someone’s else’s beliefs which may be different to my own… 🙂
Ray…glad to hear that you are continuing on with ‘faith forward’ broadcast. That’s actually the reason I started tuning in. Sure, its about business, but I was looking for solid information on copywriting and online marketing that I could trust.
After being burned by a few guru’s (thank God I didn’t lose my shirt, but I did lose a sock or two), I found your broadcast. Knowing you are a believer caused me to tune in more. I feel that I get plenty of ‘business goods’ in your show, but its nice to hear a spiritual word as well. And after all, its not like you spend most of the show talking “Jesus.” It’s actually a small part of the broadcast…but a welcome part in my opinion.
Thanks for the incredible education you provide…and thanks for giving it from a foundation of faith. I, for one, appreciate it.
God bless
Douglas Nolan
Everyone here has a choice as to what they listen to, read, hear, and believe. You are not forced upon anyone. You are being real and honest about yourself. When people are not real and honest about themselves, how can anyone believe what they say about other things?
You don’t have to agree with everything that someone believes to glean from them. If you are secure in who you are and what you believe there is no issue with gathering the nuggets of good from the dirt pile.
I have always found that those who complain loudest about any mention of Christianity are the ones battling within themselves. Their outburst is an emotional response meant to keep them from crossing over to the side of faith…if they keep listening to this stuff they might believe it too…so they don’t want to hear it.
No, you should not “Shut up about Jesus”. I know criticism can cut deep but God is training us to be able to stand in the face of opposition without taking offenses. He is purifying His Bride! Count it all Joy!
Ray, This is the first time I have read your blog. When I saw the title I knew I had to read it because I wanted to make sure I shared my input. I was so glad to see you stand strong with your faith. God wants us to be proud of Him not try to conform to make others feel more comfortable. If someone doesn’t want to hear how Jesus has helped you grow and be successful then they just go read another blog. You won’t have any problem getting readers interested in hearing the message that God has given you which is the reason you do what you do. God is smiling down on you
Right now and He is so proud of you too. I feel the exact way you spoke about. I am a Christian and I love all of God’s people , believers or not. I don’t judge anyone because that is not what God sent us to do. He wants us to share His Word to everyone and love everyone; even those who are live their life engaging in activities that the Bible clearly says do not do this _______ fill in the blank. Jesus did not judge anyone. He helped a prostitute, an adulteress, and many, many more. He did not shun anyone. Sorry I kinda got off topic. I have been receiving emails from you for over a year and this is the first one I read. I will be reading much more. Thank you for showing others how to be successful in business and being honest about how you have made it. God is good!
Denise
I don’t think you’ll shut up about Jesus, I wouldn’t either! I am excited to connect with like-spirited individuals. I’m looking forward to the assignment He has for you because now my wisdom will increase just a little bit more – out of your obedience! 🙂 Thank you and continued blessings!
Ray, please continue sharing your faith in your business. As someone who has recently come to the knowledge that I have to step out and share my faith in my business, the fact that you have a successful online business where you share your expertise AND your faith gives me hope and a model to follow. Your light shines for Jesus in every podcast you do. I started listening this month and I love every one of your podcasts. Keep it up! We need more ministers in the marketplace who shine the Light of Jesus into the world wherever they are.
Hi Ray,
I’m a big fan of your work in copywriting and I use it every day. But, I stopped listening to your podcast (although I really like the dynamic of it) because you spend upwards to 10 minutes talking about Jesus in every show. I’m an atheist myself and I believe anyone should be allowed to believe what s/he wants. But I don’t think business and religion should be mixed.
No matter what, keep up the great work.
Thank you for taking time to share that feedback Thomas. I truly appreciate it.
Ray,
I don’t think you need to tone it down. If your faith is an integral part of your life and experience (which is is), then there is no reason to hide it or be covert.
You may turn off some folks, but that’s OK because they aren’t the people that would listen to you anyway.
Keep it up and never hide your faith.
“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.” Mark 8:38
Hi Ray:
I really appreciate reading your work and the inclusion of Jesus the Christ. He is the most successful business man that walked the earth. What business He was overseeing? I am glad you asked,its called THE KINGDOM OF GOD” on Earth. His business was of His Father “God”, extended the government (culture) of Heaven on earth. Jesus was not a religious figure, we human made him out to be. Jesus was more political than he was religious. Throughout the gospel Jesus primary message was about one thing KINGDOM, not Christianity as a religion, but as governmental agency in the earth. John 3:16 states for “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whoever believes on him should not perish, but have eternal life”. The word “WORLD” in this passage means “SYSTEMS”. God loves the systems of this earth that HE sent son not only to provide salvation for the soul of man, but for salvaging of the world systems. Because the systems of this world have corrupted by the souls (Mind, Will and Emotions) of Humans. Therefore let the redeemed of the Lord say so whether its in business, education, Politics, Arts & Entertainment, Family and Religion. In all that you do Ray do in the name of the Lord Jesus the Christ.
If you are helping people, that good! But what do you mean by saying ; “if you’re hoping I’ll be less “Jesus-y”?
Ray,
I listen to podcasts and read blogs by believers in god, and 99% of the time it doesn’t bother me. However, I don’t regularly listen to your podcast or read your blog even though you have great content because I feel like there is too much of a god message in it. I normally just would move on my way and not say something, but since you brought it up, I thought I would share my feelings, hopefully in a meaningful way, since I see there are a lot of people telling you to keep talking about god.
Certainly the choice is yours to make as is mine to listen or not to listen. The reason I listen to other believers and not to you on a regular basis is that they do it in a way where I feel like they are teaching me something that isn’t dependent on my love of god. With you though, I feel like the successes you’ve had are tied into your love of god, and not actionable unless you have the same love and faith. To be clear, I believe in god, but I also believe that I create my future. Maybe god helped me find you, but I’m the one who has to do the work. So hearing a lot about god, doesn’t get me to do the actions that I need.
So, yes, I do listen to some of your podcasts, they do have good content, but I don’t listen regularly as I do to some other people who I feel like are more interested in helping me grow instead of preaching to me.
I hope that made sense and thanks for the content.
I understand what you’re saying, and I thank you for taking time to express it so clearly. There are a few others here who obviously feel the same way. Thank you for being so graceful in your explanation.
Ray, I have received the same message about including Jesus in ALL of my life. How can we separate him from one part and claim him in others? That does not jive with the Scriptures I have! I believe there is a movement afoot and I am sooo glad because I felt very isolated and confused on this issue for a very long time. I couldn’t understand why even mentioning my business among Christians, especially at church, was so distasteful to them; it is part of the culture in which we live that is invading the Church. I know without a doubt that God is calling me to encourage others in business and to teach and use the skills, gifts and talents he has given me to HIS glory, not mine. Thank you for having the courage to stand together to do things God’s way, not by the standards of this world…our reward waits for us on the other side. I am proud that you are my brother in Christ!
You’ve reached the right conclusion! You need to follow God’s call for you – thank you for doing that. It inspires the rest of us to be more intentional about knowing our own call and making sure we follow it.
Never Ray!
I’d just love to grasp the depth of your faith. The business arena is so fraught with worry, error, competition etc. that it seems almost impossible to hold onto the ‘He will not see His people forsaken’. It’s also very difficult to be certain that my motives for increase are right, and thus subjective, and just may be in line for blessing.
I saw a speech by a lady last night who spoke about Corrie Ten Boom – she also shared something of her own experience which was such; she has her own ministry and became frustrated at not having converts. She had a word from God which essentially, in my words, said ‘You serve them, I’ll convert them’. In principle, this seems to me to be the same attitude I need to have in the secular area. And yet it’s sooooo difficult to get this.
Would love to hear your thoughts on this Ray
And thanks again – your podcasts are brilliant, effective, and affecting
Best
Evan
When you’re excited about the reason for your success, and want to share it with others – it’s nearly impossible to present something else. Keep Jesus moving, brother. We do need more ministers in the marketplace.
I have been trying to find the way to include Jesus into my blog posts as well – and I do, but because I’m trying to reach both Christians and None audience, it’s a bit difficult for me to come up with the right presentation. Yet, by the time you’re done with my blog, you’ll find that Jesus is the reason for my marriage and family success or anything I do. So keep it going. You’ve been an inspiration to push me (a Pastor 🙂 )to include the gospel in my blogsphere. I haven’t been attacked – yet. 🙂
You can’t stop talking about Jesus!. Everyone who does will be criticized. “Anyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” — Apostle Paul. People today talk about all kinds of stuff. They want us to keep our religious life private, but not our sex life. What should be kept private no longer is.
I am also a “pulpit pastor” and a “marketplace pastor.” I work in the oilfield and I have plenty of opportunity to talk about Christ. There are men here who would never come to my church that I can reach at work. Usually they bring up the topic because they know I am a pastor. I have given out Bibles, tracts and study booklets at work, and no one has complained yet. (My church members complain more than my co-workers.) So keep it up. If they don’t like your stuff that’s too bad. They can find secular people who only want to make money off them.
Granted as a Pastor I am biased. I think you have done a great job of mixing your faith and business. In fact you may be the only I am aware of that does it with every single post. You are never pushy but there is not doubt where you stand. Sadly I can think of a few other A-list bloggers who don’t speak about their faith. I no longer follow their blogs because they come across as less than genuine. (Yes I read a lot of blogs that are not faith blogs so just the lack of faith was not the issue).
Whenever someone hits success there will be the trolls and haters. – Stay the course
I’ve come to believe that their really isn’t a separation between the secular and the spiritual. What we learn on Sunday should be taken into Monday. God created the heavens and the earth, so if God is a spiritual being and everything physical came out of him, then how can their be a separation. The chasm between the two is something advocated by the world to try and insulate themselves from spiritual truth (Jesus). They have always wanted and now vehemently attempt to keep us quiet inside the walls of the church. But Jesus never stayed in the temple. He was always out and about the world bringing truth and shining light into a dark and dying generation. We should do the same. We should not be afraid to ‘live’ our faith everywhere and share it when appropriate. In this world that takes wisdom, but God will grant that wisdom if you asked Him. Keep going Ray. You are certainly allowing God’s ministry to work through your business. And there’s nothing wrong with that.
Simply put, no.
Ray, I love this. The whole idea of running business from a place of real faith is what attracted me to your teaching. I’m not really a copywriter, in fact, hate writing. But, I do love your teaching about business and anything that makes me more successful that I can share with others. So, I especially loved your unique take on things from a faith pov which is exactly how I approach things.
God has me on a special journey this year. I had a different business at the end of 2015 that I closed based on leadings. This post is so apropos to where I have felt that God is leading me – the whole idea of mission through business. In fact, I never had a term for it before now; love your “ministers in the marketplace.” I’ve had this strong pull that I’m being called to teach, preach, lead, serve, encourage and provoke and I knew it wasn’t entirely within church walls but have not been sure how to really fit the two together.
You have simply affirmed what I had been feeling and messages God has been sending. Be assured, God is definitely using you. Thanks Ray!
Ray,
You are right on target. I see nothing wrong with mixing the two. Will a business be successful while mixing the two? Have you ever been to a Chick-fil-a at lunch time?
Many locations that I visit have two drive-thrus that have lines wrapped all the way around the building and they are closed on Sundays! I don’t know, you tell me.
In Christ,
Hi Ray,
There are plenty of business people who “shut up about Jesus”. It is admirable that you are following Christ’s leading in a bold way. I admire you for being upfront about who you are and blending important Christian messages into your business format. I find your Biblical references applicable and helpful. Besides, you always preface your remarks by acknowledging that not all your followers are Christians and you do it with respect for them.
Please maintain your “dual message and dual mission”. The world needs more people with the courage of their convictions. When Christians are silenced because we are afraid of what others will think, we are in serious trouble. Many other business people who are spiritual disciples of religions like Zen Buddhism, etc, unapologetically refer to their beliefs when they deliver their business messages. Continue, and remain open for business with everyone no matter their belief – or non-belief – system.
As Michael Hyatt points out, it is good to have your blog on your own piece of real estate. It’s your platform where you can follow your own heart. Have at it! You never know who will hear you 🙂
Sincerely,
Peggy
Ray, I so appreciate your willingness to not leave God out of the picture, since in the real world, after all, He isn’t out of the picture. We are whole beings here, not just money makers. Thank you for hitting all the different aspects of who we are that make us truly human and successful people.
Well, it’s the reason why I started listening, kept on listening, and why it’s the only podcast I’ve literally never missed an episode.
And look where that got us, my friend 🙂
Point taken, sir! 🙂
I think it is great and very encouraging what you are doing??? Do not stop sharing your faith in all what you do!
I have been doing ministry but it seems like this season the Holy Spirit is pulling me towards Market Place Ministry.
Thank-you for your posts!
Hi Ray,
I, for one, have been encouraged to find a copywriter and marketer who is open about the necessary connection between God and ethical, honest success.
You’re fighting against centuries of narrow-minded, false attitudes about wealth and Christianity. Like somehow the Father of all creation wants his children to be poor and begging. No earthly father wants that for his children, so why would God, who’s the one who came up with the idea of Fatherhood in the first place?
You’re also fighting against the incessant negative portrayals from entertainment media. I’m amazed how I hear the same things over and over about what I supposedly believe, as a Christian, from people who get their theology from movies and TV.
Even “It’s a Wonderful Life,” which isn’t a negative portrayal of spiritual things, includes fictional versions of what happens with angels. And then people treat those ideas as those they’re real, rather than read about actual encounters with angels in the bible.
“Prosperity Gospel” has gotten a bad rap, because some people have used their ministry platform to take advantage of simple, trusting people.
But that doesn’t mean we throw the baby out with the bath water…Christians should be prospering in every area of their lives, walking in a flow of blessings. Does that mean bad things don’t ever happen? Of course not…not in this present fallen world. But Christians understand sowing and reaping, using honest weights and measures, treating people right, thinking of others instead of just ourselves…and the list goes on. That’s just good business!
I know that without my relationship with God, through faith in Christ, I wouldn’t have the faintest idea how to walk in integrity, even when it would be easier to lie, and I would have such low self esteem because I’d be living an empty, self-centered existence.
So bring it on Ray.
By the way, to that ignorant person who accused you of having little marketing substance, I found out about you through another top-notch marketer, and before I even became aware of your faith, I was learning from you about your PASTOR copywriting formula. I’ve learned a lot from you since that time, and your example.
Keep on teaching us, Ray…you’re absolutely right about Christians needing to be influencers in the culture. How can we be influential if we’re always broke and unsuccessful? I look forward to learning more from you about how to run my copywriting business and become an influencer.
Ray,
I just started following you a few weeks back. Keep going.
Thank you John.
Ray I have learned a lot from your podcast. I only listen to you because you do incorporate your Christian values into the business. I feel like you are very sincere about helping business owners to succeed. Thank you
Callena Fitzpatrick
C.F. Training Services
Ray. As a Christian you should proclaim your faith and continue to talk about your story. As long as you continue to appeal to non-believers you are doing God’s work. Criticism comes with the territory, Jesus said that. You should start to worry when your readership is Christians ONLY. This is the dangerous ground where most churches end up too. The potential to change people’s lives comes in gelling your story of salvation. People will come to Christ when they see people of faith displaying Christ in their whole life.
Mr. Edwards, you are a testament of faith, by honoring and giving glory to the ONE Who has assigned your endeavors. Any critical comments by those whose ears or spirits are agitated by reference to JESUS, GOD, or the HOLY SPIRIT, are vessels allowing themselves to be used as voices of the resistance. And we both know who the resistance is. So, I say kudos to you for acknowledging that the treasure hidden within your vessel is of the power of GOD, and not of yourself.
Why should anybody tell you, what you have to do, although they may think they know better? When things are right for you it makes you responsible to go for it!
“I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ”, so says the Bible through Paul the great missionary. I say brother to continue in the way that Christ has put into your heart. Following Christ can never go wrong. “No weapon formed against you shall prosper”.
Thank you for those reminders. Good stuff.
9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” 12 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, 13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
God never promised us a rose garden – he did promise us a home in heaven with golden streets, but in the meantime our faith will be tested – not by God but by our well meaning friends.
Bear in mind that Jesus upset the establishment of His day and they plotted to crucify Him; so why should we expect anything different, if we upset the establishment of our day.
… oops I forgot the Bible reference is Romans 10: 9-13
Ray,
Thanks for your posts about God, Jesus and your spirituality.
God and Jesus are so misinterpreted in the world. We are called to set the record straight. All the success we can have in life truly comes from God and following Him. It is a free gift from Him. Unfortunately few people realize it.
So we need people like you – business people and not pastors or preachers – to help us see it.
Thanks for your powerful blog posts and podcasts.