Stories are powerful. From the beginning, the middle to the end; a great story weaves together different elements that can make it very captivating.
People love a good story (myself included); that’s why the global film industry is worth over $136 billion. It’s why streaming giants like Netflix and Disney Plus have managed to grow and expand. It’s also why personal bloggers on youtube and other social media platforms find success by curating their stories online.
Your Christ-Story
Anyone who has ever had an encounter with Christ has a powerful story to tell. Sharing how you came to know Jesus and what he has done in your life can encourage others who are also seeking to draw closer to God.
Your Christ story, Whether it’s about you coming to Christ or about something God has done for you, is one of the most powerful evangelical tools that you have. In fact, as ambassadors of Christ, we are called to share what Christ has done in our lives. Jesus’ instructions to his disciple in Matthew 28:19 was not a mere suggestion but a command.
Paul’s Story
The Apostle Paul understood this assignment (Romans 1:1-6). A devoutly religious Jew, Paul mercilessly hunted and persecuted followers of Christ until he encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). His conversion from a persecutor of Christians to a devout Christian who fearlessly and relentlessly spread the Gospel even against the fiercest opposition, is proof that Jesus is the ultimate game changer. He makes all the difference.
In addition to fearlessly spreading the Gospel, Paul never shied away from sharing his conversion story, in fact he used his experiences, good and bad, to advance the Gospel. (Philippians 1:12)
Sharing Your Story
Have you ever written your testimony down? Do your closest friends know how God saved you?
When we share our stories about what God has done for us, we allow others to see themselves in our story. We also grow closer to each other and to God.
Your faith story is powerful and when shared, it can introduce others to the love of Christ. So get to sharing! If you’re confused about where to start, here are some tips to help you effectively share your story of God’s faithfulness in your life.
3 ways to effectively share your story:
- Start with what your life was like before Christ: this is the aspect of your story that might be the most relatable to others.
- What did your life revolve around?
- Where did you find your identity, your security, peace of mind and happiness?
- Then talk about how you came to know Christ: your conversion story,
- Share details about what happened.
- What was the turning point for you?
- How did you react to hearing the Gospel for the first time?
- What did you struggle with before making the decision to follow Christ?
- Share what your life is like now: the transformation.
- How has Christ changed your life, your perspective or attitude towards certain things?
- What things did you used to struggle with that you don’t anymore? or if you’re still struggling (that’s okay) share about how God is equipping and enabling you to deal with these struggles.
Helpful Tips To Keep In Mind
- Organize your story. Write it out if you have to. A testimony that is carefully prepared and shared with the help of the Holy Spirit is an effective way to share God’s message of love.
- Avoid using churchy or preachy language. When sharing your story you want to be relatable so that you can connect with who you’re sharing with, therefore, it’s a good idea to use language that they’re familiar with.
- Don’t be afraid to share your story. No one can argue with your experience, you lived it.
- Remember John 6:44. It’s God’s job to save people not yours, you get to tell people what he has done for you but he does the saving.
What Story Will You Share?
What’s your faith story? Click here to learn how you can partner with us to share your story.
Lastly, I hope you’re inspired to tell someone your story of God’s faithfulness in your life. Remember, your story is God’s story, so don’t be afraid to share it.