Over the last 5 years or so, our family has faced a great deal of adversity.  We’ve cared for sick loved ones.  We’ve battled unexpected health issues.  We’ve lost a baby.

Sometimes life is hard.  During seasons of adversity, it’s wise to hunker down at home and slow down the pace of life.  You can’t serve the body well if your home front is bleeding and bruised.

However, that doesn’t mean that your calling to tell the world about Jesus is on hold.  It just means that your battleground has changed.  Instead of going out into the world to reach the lost, your home becomes a display case for God’s glory to shine.  How you respond to adversity may speak the Truth louder than a Gospel tract or sermon.

The world is watching.  How will you use your valley season to spread the Good News?  As you press into Jesus as a family, there will be several opportunities to share.

How to Be a Missionary without Leaving Your House

Start a Blog: In 2010, after we lost our baby, I discovered the world of blogging. Reading the authentic stories of other women helped me to heal and find hope during a very difficult time. Later that year, in hopes of encouraging others, I hit the publish button on my blog for the very first time. Since then, thousands of people I do not know from all around the world have visited my little home on the web. As I work daily to keep the faith and share the lessons that God is teaching me, the Good News is proclaimed.

Pick up the Phone: Our tendency during difficult times is to say that we are “fine,” but opening up with vulnerability may create an atmosphere for the Holy Spirit to chip away at the stony hearts in your family. So, when your lost loved one calls to ask how you are doing, share honestly about your struggles and explain how God is helping you work through your day. If your neighbor is facing the same trial that you are, pick up the phone and call to let them know that you are praying for them and that you understand. One phone call might just change a life forever.

Write a Letter: You may be too young to remember this, but back in the day, we used to write letters. We’d get out a piece of pretty stationary and grab our favorite pen and sit down to communicate in writing. It’s a lost art, but one that is personal and packed with emotional currency. You can write out your story and share a few lessons that God is teaching you as you wait and pray during a difficult time. Those who read your words may open their hearts to the God who is your Anchor.

Extend an Invitation: You may be going through a difficult time, but you still have to eat. Why not invite a neighbor over for dessert and conversation? Brew a pot of coffee and pray for God to help you share His story in an inviting way.

Enjoy your Yard: Put your lawn chairs out in your driveway and watch the kids play in the front yard, instead of the back yard. As folks walk down the street, make sure to wave hello. You never know when someone may stop to chat about the weather, and the conversation may just turn to current events or another topic that could provide an opening for the Gospel.

Even if you are hunkered down at home, you can be a missionary. Get creative. Share your story and watch God move in unexpected ways as you live out the Gospel.

Let’s Talk:  What are some other practical ways to live like a missionary without leaving your house?

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This post originally appeared at Missional Women.