Why many Christians hesitate to share their faith
Sometimes Christians are reluctant to talk about their faith with other people because they’re afraid they’ll be asked a question they don’t know how to answer. What they don’t know is that they already have an incredibly effective tool at their disposal. That tool is their personal story.
What is your personal testimony
The story of how you met Jesus is often called your personal testimony. When someone testifies in a courtroom, they tell the story of what they’ve seen and heard. Your personal testimony is just like that. You simply tell the story of how you met Christ and the difference He’s made in your life. That’s why some people call it their “Christ story.”
The Samaritan woman’s encounter with Jesus
On one occasion, Jesus was going from Judea to Galilee with His disciples when He stopped at a well in Samaria. A woman shows up at the well, and Jesus talks with her. After some back-and-forth conversation about “living water,” personal choices, and true worship, Jesus reveals to her that He is the Messiah (John 4.26 NLT).
She didn’t understand every little aspect of what that meant, but she knew that her encounter with Jesus had changed her life. She ran back to her village and announced, “Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could he possibly be the Messiah?” John 4.29 NLT. Because of her story, everyone in the village came out to see Jesus and many put their faith in Him (John 4.39 NLT).
Why your story is so powerful
In Revelation 12.11 NLT, we’re given a glimpse of Satan’s defeat. It says, “And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony.” Your personal testimony is so powerful that even Satan can’t stand against it.
Your story cannot be refuted
Why is your story so powerful? First, it can’t be refuted. People can debate claims about who Jesus is, but they can’t deny what He’s done to transform your life.
Your story is real and authentic
Another reason why your story is powerful is that it’s real. In a world where so many people pretend to be something they’re not, your personal testimony conveys a deeper truth that is genuine and authentic.
Your story points to God’s power
Finally, your story is powerful because it puts God’s power on display. Rather than drawing attention to yourself when you tell your story, you point away from yourself toward God. After all, it was His goodness and mercy that transformed your life into what it is now.
Someone needs to hear your story
Even if you don’t think your personal testimony is dramatic, someone needs to hear it. You never know who will identify with your story and who God might draw to Himself because you had the courage to share it
This blog features an excerpt from one of our Student Series books, Reach Your World.
