Dr. Floyd Godfrey

In a world that often prizes comfort and compromise, Christians are called to something different—walking by faith and speaking the truth with boldness. This theme was powerfully underscored at the Stand Strong Mega National Christian Counseling Conference 2024 in Dallas by none other than former Major League Baseball player Darryl Strawberry. His speech, filled with wisdom and encouragement, reminded believers of the importance of standing firm in their faith and speaking God's truth, no matter the circumstances.

The Courage to Speak the Truth
One of the central messages from Darryl Strawberry’s speech was the call for Christians to boldly declare the truth. In today’s culture, where truth is often relative, the temptation to remain silent or shy away from biblical principles is real. However, Strawberry reminded us, “Don’t back down from speaking the truth!”

The Bible emphasizes the importance of truth-telling. Ephesians 4:15 (NIV) instructs us to “speak the truth in love” so that we may grow in every way to be like Christ. Walking by faith is not just a personal journey; it is also a public testimony. By speaking the truth, we point others toward God’s ultimate authority and His unwavering standards. In a world where many voices compete for attention, believers must stand firm, knowing that “God will have the last say, not Hollywood or anyone else,” as Strawberry declared.

Growth Through Challenges
Strawberry’s message also touched on the role of challenges in the Christian life. He stated, “Christians grow when they accept the challenges that God allows to be in their life.” Trials are not something to fear or avoid; they are opportunities for growth. When we walk by faith, we recognize that every challenge we face is an invitation to trust God more deeply.

James 1:2-4 (NIV) reminds us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” As Christians, we are shaped and refined through the trials God allows. Strawberry encouraged the audience to see challenges as part of God's divine plan for growth, declaring, “God has something great for those who go through the fire!” This powerful reminder echoes the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who found God in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:25).

God’s Ultimate Purpose
Another essential truth from Strawberry’s speech was about God's sovereignty and our role in His plans. He said, “God does not NEED you, but he will USE you if you are available and ready. You aren’t doing him a favor by working for him.” This humbling statement reminds us that while God chooses to involve us in His work, He remains fully sovereign. Our role is not to make God’s plans succeed, but to remain faithful, obedient, and ready to be used for His glory.

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) declares, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Our purpose is already written into God’s story; our job is simply to be willing vessels. Strawberry’s words remind us that God is always at work, and He will use those who are ready, but we must never forget that He is ultimately in control.

Walking by Faith Amid Uncertainty
Faith is not just about believing in God’s promises when everything is clear and comfortable; it is about trusting Him when we cannot see the outcome. As Strawberry encouraged, “God has something great for those who go through the fire!” This powerful statement points to the truth that walking by faith often means enduring difficulties and trusting that God’s plan is far greater than we can imagine.

Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) defines faith as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” It is this confidence that allows us to speak truth, face challenges, and trust that God will ultimately have the final say in all things. When we walk by faith, we are acknowledging that God’s ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9).

Conclusion
Darryl Strawberry’s powerful message at the Stand Strong Conference serves as a reminder to all believers: walking by faith requires courage, perseverance, and a willingness to speak the truth, even in the face of opposition. Challenges will come, but they are opportunities for growth, and through it all, we can trust that God is in control. As Strawberry said, “God does not NEED you, but he will USE you if you are available and ready.” So, let us be bold in our faith, unwavering in our commitment to God’s truth, and confident in His ultimate plan for our lives.

Floyd Godfrey, PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed counselor for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.

Reference
Strawberry, D. (2024, October). Walk By Faith. Plenary Forum. Dallas; Texas.