It isn't always easy sharing your story.
Maybe you've experienced some painful chapters in your life, or you've done things you're embarrassed by. Whatever your life's journey has taken you so far, you are now in a place of healing and restoration. You don't have to be controlled by your past. Instead, you can look back at what happened, make your peace with it, and be hopeful for your future.
You can share your testimony, just like you've been called to do.
For today's blog post, I'm focusing on the power of sharing your testimony, as well as breaking it down into tangible steps. I get it—sharing your story can be daunting. Remember, this isn't just about you, it's about what God has been doing through your life, amidst the highs and lows.
Be Forward
"And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come." ~ Matthew 24:13
We're called to share God's work in our lives throughout the New Testament. In many instances, Jesus will perform some miracle and the only thing He'll ask in return is for all who witnessed to share what they saw.
Our story is ultimately God's story. One of the most powerful ways to share the Gospel is by laying out your story from sin, brokenness, and wandering to restoration and community. Share the incredible impact that Jesus has made on your life.
The first thing to keep in mind when sharing your testimony is the importance of being forward and bold. Divulging your personal life can be scary, but nonetheless, you have been called to do it. Pray that God may prepare your heart for your meeting and that He may give you a spirit of boldness, despite your fears and anxieties.
Consider meditating on Psalm 27:1, asking for strength.
"The Lord is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?"
Be Creative
There's no one right way to share God's beauty. After all, there are traces of His goodness throughout creation. I invite you to be creative and share your testimony in whatever way is most appealing to you. Do you paint? Do you write? Do you play an instrument? Even if you're not in a creative field, consider how you can share God's love through your profession.
Whatever you do, there is an opportunity to let God's love inspire your work.
Be Real
"...Preaching the kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered." ~ Acts 28:31
The Apostles of the early church certainly didn't hold back when it came to sharing the Gospel, and neither should we. The likes of Paul and Stephen gave everything they had in their testimony.
They were honest and real. They didn't sugarcoat their need for a Savior.
Remember, there is no shame in admitting the sins of your past, or your dependence on God.
Just like Romans 3:23 states, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."When you're open and real with people, they can sense that authenticity. They'll be more likely to listen to you and take what you have to say to heart when you're sharing your true experiences with them. My advice to you? Be real. Tell it how it is. They deserve to know the truth, to know how Jesus came to you in your darkest hour.
Be Hopeful
"Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming." ~ 1 Peter 1:13
Above all, trust that the best is yet to come—regardless of how the conversation goes! When you share your testimony, it's okay if things don't end as planned, if your listener doesn't give their heart to Jesus or seem to connect with you. That's life, isn't it? Things don't always turn out the way you'd like, and we humans all have free will.
Despite the setbacks you may experience, don't let that hinder you from continuing to share your testimony with boldness and faith.
The truth is, there will be some who really resonate with what you have to say and others who won't. Thank God for those soulful connections and hopeful encounters, and pray for strength for those conversations that end in crickets.
You're not in charge of the outcome. You're only called to share the Gospel.
Falling for Jesus
Your story is a powerful one, LiF sister. Never forget what God has done in your life. Of course, sharing your testimony with others is a great way for them to connect with God, but it's also a wonderful reminder for you, too. Jesus rescued you from sin and death and has brought you here, into a relationship with Him. Be sure to check out our Christian t-shirts—yet another way to share God's truth (without even saying a word!).