Faith in Action: An Inspiring Conversation with Dale Hirschman
Faith in Action: An Inspiring Conversation with Dale Hirschman
In a heartfelt and inspiring conversation, Sarah Rose sat down with Dale Hirschman, a man whose life exemplifies living out faith through everyday actions and passions. From rodeo arenas to classroom settings, Dale’s story is a testament to how faith can be integrated into every facet of life.
A Life Rooted in Faith and Purpose
Dale, a retired high school art teacher and current rodeo photographer, shared his journey from childhood memories of church spankings to embracing a full-hearted relationship with Jesus Christ. Growing up in Perry, Oklahoma, his earliest memories involved church, family, and a desire to pursue a life that honors God.His passion for rodeo and art intertwined naturally, inspired by family traditions and heroes like Will James, a cowboy-artist. Dale’s love for drawing, especially graphite sketches and watercolor, became a way to express his creativity and his faith. He recounted how his art and teaching became acts of worship, with his classroom serving as a platform to share Christ’s love openly and authentically.
Living Faith Through Rodeo and Teaching
Dale’s story is rich with examples of how he used his passions to impact others. Whether it was sharing his testimony during college rodeos, leading cowboy church services, or simply being present at the arena, he sought to reflect Christ’s love in every interaction.He emphasized that ministry isn’t confined to the church building. Every act—whether teaching students, engaging with rodeo competitors, or even treating waitstaff with respect—is an opportunity to live out faith. Dale’s approach demonstrates that true worship is a lifestyle, and that our daily routines can be powerful platforms for sharing Christ.
The Power of Delighting in the Lord
One of the most compelling parts of the conversation revolved around the biblical promise in Psalms 37:4—"Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." Dale shared personal stories illustrating how this scripture played out in his life, from winning rodeo events to witnessing God’s provision in unexpected ways.He explained that delighting in God means valuing and esteeming Him above all else, and that when our relationship with Jesus is priority, our desires align with His will. Whether it’s seeing a herd of buffalo swim across a river or receiving a financial blessing, Dale believes that God delights in blessing those who seek Him sincerely.
Encouragement to Live Out Faith Daily
Dale’s message is clear: each of us has a ministry—wherever we are and whatever we do. Whether you’re a teacher, a server, a student, or an athlete, your actions and attitudes can point others to Christ. His story encourages believers to pursue Jesus with all their heart, trusting that God will fulfill the desires He places within us.As Dale advised, “Treat everyone as a child of God; live as if everything you do is an act of worship.” Whether it’s in the classroom, the rodeo arena, or in everyday interactions, our faith can be a guiding light.
A Prayer of Blessing
The conversation concluded with a prayer, where Dale asked for God’s blessing on listeners, praying that they would experience His love, forgiveness, and guidance. He emphasized that nothing about us—our quirks, failures, or sins—can diminish God's love for us, and that He is always ready to accept us with open arms.
Final Thoughts
Dale Hirschman’s story is a beautiful reminder that faith is not just a Sunday activity but a daily walk. His life demonstrates that when we pursue God with sincerity, He places His desires in our hearts and guides us to live purposefully for His glory.Let Dale’s journey inspire you to find ways to live out your faith authentically, in every area of your life. As Psalm 37:4 promises, when we delight ourselves in the Lord, He will faithfully give us the desires of our hearts.