When you think of following Jesus, what comes to mind? Going to church, reading your Bible, helping others? For Millard and Linda Fuller, living out their Christian faith meant something truly unique – helping people around the world have a decent place to live. They founded Habitat for Humanity, a charity that builds houses for people in need. But the story of how they got there is just as amazing as the work they did.
A change of heart
Millard Fuller was a successful businessman. He had wealth, a fast-paced lifestyle, and seemed to have everything he’d ever wanted. But all that money and success wasn’t bringing him happiness. In fact, his marriage with Linda was struggling, and they both felt that something important was missing. Millard and Linda realized that wealth alone wasn’t the answer; they wanted a life filled with purpose and faith.
So, they did something radical. They gave away their wealth and started looking for ways to serve God. They dedicated their lives to Jesus and asked Him to show them what they could do for others.
The vision for Habitat for Humanity
In 1976, the Fullers started Habitat for Humanity. Their vision was simple: they wanted to help people in need of homes. Millard believed that everyone deserves a decent place to live, and he knew that building houses was something practical and impactful that he could do. They wanted to create a world where families could have safe homes without falling into heavy debt.
Habitat for Humanity didn’t just build houses; it brought people together. Volunteers from all over came to help, and even the families receiving the homes helped build them, too. This was what Millard called “sweat equity” – everyone pitched in to create something beautiful and lasting.
Faith in action
Millard and Linda’s work with Habitat for Humanity showed the world what it means to live out your faith. James 2:17 says, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” Millard and Linda put their faith into action by helping people in need, showing that being a Christian isn’t just about what you believe – it’s about what you do with those beliefs.
Their story reminds us that we don’t have to be rich or famous to make a difference. Millard once said, “For a community to be whole and healthy, it must be based on people’s love and concern for each other.” The Fullers showed love by giving people something practical and life-changing: a place to call home.
You can make a difference, too
Maybe you’re not in a position to build houses, but you can still make a big difference in your own way. Living out your faith means finding ways to love and serve others, even if it’s just small things – helping a friend with homework, volunteering at church, or being kind to someone who’s having a tough time. Jesus calls us to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39), and that can start right where you are.
Where will God lead you?
Millard and Linda Fuller didn’t start out with a big plan. They simply wanted to serve God and trusted Him to show them the way. You can do the same! Pray for God to guide you, be willing to help others, and keep an open heart for where He might lead you.
Just like the Fullers, you might find that living out your faith is an adventure that leads you somewhere you’d never expect – and it could change lives, starting with your own.
