Trump Protects Religious Freedom at Work—Now What?

When I saw the news about the Trump administration’s new policy protecting religious expression in the federal workplace, I’ll be honest — I was both encouraged and reflective. Encouraged because it affirms something many of us have been saying for years: Christians should not have to leave their faith at the office door. Reflective because with this freedom comes a serious responsibility.

As believers, we often talk about how our rights are being eroded in today’s culture — and in many ways, that’s true. But in this case, we’ve just been handed something rare in modern America: a government-backed affirmation of our right to live out our faith at work. The real question is… now what?

Trump’s Action Is More Than Symbolic

Let’s get something straight: this wasn’t just a symbolic gesture. The memo issued by the Office of Personnel Management under Trump explicitly tells federal agencies to protect and enforce the religious expression of employees — things like praying on breaks, displaying Scripture or faith-based symbols at your desk, and even respectfully sharing your beliefs with coworkers.

That’s not nothing. That’s bold.

And whether you like Trump or not, the truth is this: he has consistently taken action to defend the rights of Christians in America. During both of his presidencies, he’s stood up to the progressive push to silence biblical voices — in schools, in business, and now, again, in government workplaces.

Does this mean he’s perfect? Of course not. But I believe in giving credit where it’s due. In a time when many politicians are terrified to even mention Jesus, Trump continues to support religious liberty without apology. And for that, I’m grateful.

Religious Freedom Is Not a License to Preach at People

Now, here’s where we need to be honest with ourselves as Christians. Just because we can talk about our faith at work doesn’t mean we should do it casually or carelessly.

Paul told the church in Colossae, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Colossians 4:6). Not every moment is the right moment to talk about Jesus — but every moment is the right moment to reflect Him.

This new policy does not give us permission to be rude, self-righteous, or pushy. It gives us space to live authentically — to carry our Bibles without fear, to pray without hiding, to speak truth when God opens the door.

Use It or Lose It

Here’s what I believe: if Christians don’t boldly and wisely use the freedoms we’re given, we will eventually lose them.

This new protection won’t last forever. If the next administration decides to reverse it, they will — and don’t think for a second the progressive left won’t try. They’re already framing religious freedom as a “cover for hate,” and the moment we misuse it, they’ll seize on it.

That’s why we must live and speak in a way that leaves no excuse for revoking our witness. That means walking in grace and truth, not one without the other.

And that’s also why Christians must stay involved in public life. If we disappear from government, we leave leadership in the hands of those who reject God’s truth. I’ve written more about this in my blog Faith in Politics: Should Christians Be Involved in Government? — and if this policy shift tells us anything, it’s that our presence still matters.

Jesus didn’t shy away from confronting sin, but He also never manipulated people into conversion. He spoke the truth boldly — and let the Holy Spirit do the heart-changing. We should do the same.

Don’t Waste the Opportunity

If you’re a Christian working in a federal job, this policy matters to you. You now have clear backing to express your faith — within reason — on the job. But the rest of us should care, too. Because this is a small glimpse of what it could look like if more leaders had the courage to defend religious liberty in the public square.

Let this be a reminder that religious freedom isn’t just a constitutional right — it’s a gospel opportunity. And with every opportunity comes a choice: use it for God’s glory or let it pass in silence.

I’ll close with this verse, which has been on my heart all day:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16).

Let’s not be ashamed.
Let’s not be silent.
Let’s speak truth.

Arch Kennedy

Bold, Unfiltered, and Unafraid