Sunday Notes: December 15th, 2024: The Power of Our Testimonies – Part 2

December 15, 2024

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The Power of Testimony Part 2

Your Story is a Seed of Hope

Each person’s testimony is like a seed planted in the lives of others. Just as a tiny seed can grow into a mighty tree, our stories of faith and victory have the power to inspire and transform. When we share our experiences, we are planting seeds of hope that can take root in the hearts of those who hear them.

Sharing our stories—our testimonies of faith and victory are a significant practice for believers. Jesus was a master storyteller. Let’s explore several lessons from His life that can guide us in sharing our own stories. Our take-away is that when we share our stories, we are not boasting in ourselves but in Christ Jesus and His power at work in us.

1. Know your WHY

• Define the Purpose of sharing your story to whomever you’re sharing it to.

• Identify what you hope to achieve—encouraging others, sharing hope, or highlighting God’s faithfulness?

• Consider what you want the audience to take away from your testimony. As you share it, always come back to your “why.”

Colossians 3:23-24 (NLT) Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.

Sharing your story is a part of your service to Christ.

Philippians 3:14 (NLT) I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Have a clear goal and purpose.

Sharing your story / testimony should not be for sensationalism.

SEE YOUR STORY AS A SEED OF HOPE

This idea ties back to the parable of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32) Our stories / words can lead to significant impact and faith in others.

Here is an illustration Jesus used: ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches.’”

This passage speaks to how something small, like a seed (or a single testimony), can grow into something much larger and more impactful. Just as the mustard seed grows into a significant tree, our stories of faith can take root in the hearts of others and lead to a greater understanding of God’s love and power.

2 Corinthians 9:10 (NLT) For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.

This verse emphasizes the idea of God providing seeds for sowing and bread for food, suggesting that God not only supplies what we need but also allows the seeds we plant—our testimonies and acts of faith—to produce a harvest:

View testimonies not just as personal stories, but as powerful tools for God’s Kingdom that can spread hope, inspire change, and lead others to Christ.

Revelation 12:11 (KJV) And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

2. Use Your Story to Relate to Your Audience

Matthew 13:34-35 (NLT) Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, he never spoke to them without using such parables. This fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet: ‘ I will speak to you in parables. I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world.’

Luke 15:11-32 (The Parable of the Lost Son): This parable illustrates the grace and forgiveness of God, resonating deeply with many who have strayed from Him.

Jesus masterfully crafted stories that spoke to the hearts and lives of His listeners. He understood the cultural context and used relatable scenarios to make profound spiritual truths accessible. When we share our own stories, we should consider our audience and find common ground.

For example, if you have a story about overcoming a challenge, think about how that relates to common struggles people face today—be it in family, work, or personal faith. Use everyday language and situations that resonate with them, just as Jesus used farming, fishing, and family dynamics in His parables. By doing so, we make our testimonies more impactful and relatable, allowing others to see themselves in our stories.

3. Share Your Story of Personal Transformation

John 9:25 (NLT) He answered, ‘ I don’ t know whether he is a sinner. But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!’

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT) This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

Personal transformation is a powerful testament to God’s work in our lives. Jesus often highlighted the changes in individuals He encountered, emphasizing how they were made new through their faith in Him. For instance, the blind man in John 9 boldly proclaimed his newfound sight, illustrating how his life was transformed by Jesus.

When sharing our testimonies, we should not only recount what we were saved from but also what we were saved to.

How has your relationship with Christ changed your perspective, your relationships, or your purpose? Be honest about your struggles, but also celebrate the victories and the growth that God has brought into your life. This authenticity can encourage others who may feel stuck or hopeless, showing them that change is possible.

4. Speak with Authority and Confidence

BE BOLD

Romans 1:16 NLT For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.

Matthew 7:29 (NLT) For he taught with real authority—quite unlike their teachers of religious law.

Hebrews 4:12 (NLT) For the word of God is alive and active. It is sharper than any double-edged sword…

Jesus spoke with authority and conviction, which drew people to Him. He didn’t shy away from declaring the truth of

the Gospel, and neither should we. Our testimonies carry weight because they are grounded in our personal experiences of God’s faithfulness.

When you share your story, do so with the confidence that comes from knowing who you are in Christ. Recognize that your experiences are valid and that sharing them can bring healing and hope to others. Practice your testimony so that it flows naturally and remember that it’s not about being perfect or polished; it’s about being real and honest.

Your confidence in sharing your story can inspire others to trust in Christ and seek Him for themselves.

5. Focus on God’s Glory, Not Your Own

John 15:8 (NLT) When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.

1 Corinthians 1:31 (NLT) Therefore, as the Scriptures say, ‘ If you want to boast, boast only about the Lord.’

The ultimate purpose of sharing our stories is to glorify God. Jesus consistently pointed people back to the Father, reminding them that the miracles and teachings were a reflection of God’s love and power. When we tell our stories, we should acknowledge that any victory or transformation is a result of God’s grace and work in our lives.

Make it a point to express gratitude for God’s involvement in your journey. Highlight how His guidance, strength, and love have been pivotal in your experiences. This not only keeps the focus on God but also encourages others to seek Him and recognize His ability to work in their own lives. By sharing our stories in this way, we create an atmosphere of worship and humility, inviting others to experience the same grace we have received.

Sharing your story is a vital part of your faith journey. It’s an opportunity to inspire faith and draw people to Jesus. Let us not be ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16). Embrace the stories of victory in your life and share them boldly, giving all glory to Christ.

Let’s get out there and share our stories!