Have you ever noticed how so often the testimonies with the dramatic 180 degree turn from a terrible life circumstance surrounding something like crime, addiction or abuse are highlighted and labeled powerful? They are the ones often celebrated and spoken into microphones at conferences and different events. And, while I would never argue that these testimonies are powerful and need to be told and celebrated, what about those of us who do not have these circumstances as part of our stories? Are they any less powerful? Any less significant?
Take, for instance, the woman who remembers exactly where she was when she accepted the Lord, she was five years old. While far from perfect, she has spent [practically] her whole life learning to listen and follow that still small voice of the Holy Spirit. She knows all the right things to say and verses to quote, yet daily she must confess her propensity towards works as a means for love and acceptance, and acknowledge her dire need for forgiveness and grace. Her story is still in process, she is daily being refined through faith.
Up until my sophomore year in college I thought my story was boring, it didn’t have the drama of so many others I’d heard highlighted. But, at a winter conference one of my friends got up and spoke her story from the stage. There were no shocking details, no terrible situations; hers was a story of being raised in the church and starting her journey of faith, with all the ups and downs, at a very young age. My eyes filled with tears; I could finally relate. It was then and there that I realized we all have a story worth telling.
The only goodness of a testimony that is ever wasted is from one that is never shared.
As you may have guessed, the five year old from above was me, is me. And, while my wayward wandering may have been shorter than some, my heart still feels the pull towards the things of this world. The grace I received, and continue to receive, is no less than any other person; neither is my story one of greater favor or love. It is a story that reflects a sinner in desperate need of a savior, in dire need of that which she never deserved in the first place. Sound familiar?
But my testimony, as is true for all of us with a testimony, doesn’t end at the moment I confessed my need and accepted Christ, it is not simply one moment in history. The moment we accept Christ is only the beginning. Our stories are such that we must daily, (or multiple times a day), confess our sins and accept free grace, forgiveness, and new mercies. Our stories are intricate and involve mystery, tension, risk, breakthrough and love. They are in progress, new chapters being added as mistakes are made, lessons learned, life lived.
Whether your story is one of turning away from something harmful or destructive, one of early understanding and faith, or one that falls somewhere in between–share it. We need to hear stories of the Lord’s unending pursuit, lavish love, and creativity in drawing His people to Himself. They are all love stories of grace.
If you have never accepted Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, I hope you will. If you would like more information about how to get connected with a local church or someone you can talk to, simply send me a message on the contact page.
Share your stories; they are all powerful and significant. Join the conversation.