Every one of us has a story. And every one of us who believe Christ has transformed our life has a testimony, the greatest story ever told.
Some say it’s a private story that should be told to only certain ones in a certain place, maybe they don’t want to offend, or maybe they just don’t know how to tell it, so they don’t . . .
No one else can tell your story but you. But, it’s not just yours. It’s God’s story that’s been nailed tight to the cross.
Not the once upon a moment encounter, but the before, during, and after. Don’t allow anyone to rewrite your story and keep stopping at the before. . .
Have the blessed assurance of who you are in Jesus and continue to be throughout your story – no matter the flaws that spatter in between the lines.
I’ve had countless opportunities to share my testimony over the past thirty-nine years (yes!) I have holy pieces in journals, stitched in a quilt, and published in a book.
But there was a time I didn’t even know where to begin . . .
Long ago I was asked to share my testimony in a one-hour session. Seemed easy enough. But when I was asked to take only ten minutes, then one minute, then one sentence – I thought it could never be condensed and still matter. It was actually a good exercise that took some radical editing, but I found if we know where we are in God’s handwritten story of us, we can adapt to any space or format.
Paul’s testimony in the book of Acts is a great three-step-example in how to share your story. No theatrics, just the simple supernatural truth.
Before (Acts 22:1-5) He describes what he thought and did before he became a believer.
How (Acts 22:6-11) He explains how he encountered Jesus.
After (Acts 22:12-21) He explained how becoming a follower of Christ changed his life.
Write it out and rehearse your testimony until it becomes natural. Speak the way you speak – and please don’t use Christian buzz-repelling terms.
Jesus is the hero of your story. He spilt blood to be in it and there are many who are dying to hear it.
Redemption – the Easter word.
You’re story is beautiful. Tell it.
. . . always being ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you – yet with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15
Verna
Verna,
This is so very true. People have tried to tell my “story” and have gotten it all wrong and left out of the most important part – my testimony and faith in Jesus Christ.
Your blog today helped me put this into perspective.
Thanks, for you perspective.
. . . yes, Lynda . . . I’ve had those in my life who like to remember the “preface” much too long 🙂 The most important piece of our story is, Jesus makes changes – eternal ones.
Thank you, Verna, for your refreshing words of encouragement to tell of Jesus. Please tell me, if you can, where or what publisher you used to publish your book. I and my brother are working on a book now. Needs editing and some help to make it a reality in God’s time. Thank you, dear one. You are deeply loved and appreciated. God bless you!
Ruth
I love we can stay connected, Ruth . . . miss you so. I can’t wait to read this book! My dear friend, publisher, all- around-everything-lady Marlene Bagnull (www.writehisanswer.com) published my book – Ampelos Press.
Thank you, Verna. “Once Upon a Testimony” is written so simply and beautifully. The words you wrote, “It’s God’s story that’s been nailed tight to the cross.” are so awesome, humbling, and point to God’s amazing love. I do thank God every time I think of you, Verna. You are such a dear sister in the Lord.
. . . my blessing to write His word. . . . and to remember you, Lela – Miss you! Tell your story!
Beautiful Verna, I must try that exercise of before, how, and after.
. . . the things we forget . . . in technicolor 🙂 Thank you, Glenda!