Monday Morning Bible Study Devotional, April 4, 2022 (continued)
has a story. Everyone—not just politicians, celebrities, writers, artists, adventurers and the like. Some of the most inspiring stories came from salesclerks, piano teachers, former addicts, hairdressers.
The ones I liked best were the faith stories, people recounting their spiritual journeys and how they had discovered God’s staunch faithfulness, His provision, His protection, His guidance. Those were exhilarating.
You know, all of us who are Christians have a story like that. And we’re supposed to tell it.
He [Jesus] said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation…” —Mark 16:15
“Preach the gospel”? Well, that might be a stumbling block for most of us, since the vast majority do not have the gift of preaching. And yet we’re called to tell the story of Christ. Indeed, in a world where hope is vanishing amid rampant evil, hatred, plague and violence, people need more than ever to know Christ’s gospel of love, forgiveness, redemption.
I have to admit, I have been remiss in this. Maybe you have, as well. Feelings of inadequacy, fear, awkwardness and shyness work well in silencing the story. So how might I—and perhaps you, too—overcome them and get the word out about Christ?
I think we tell the best story there is: our own.
After all, we know that story—no more education or knowledge required and no one better to tell it. I’ve been trying out this theory—albeit tentatively. It’s kind of funny what happens. The more examples I share of God’s goodness to me, His provision, His care and love…well, the joy and gratitude just spill out.
Is it catching? Well, here’s the best part. It’s not my job (or yours) to convince people to accept Christ. That’s God’s work. It’s only my job to tell my own story, just plant little seeds of faith. It’s up to God to make them grow.
The world needs to hear our stories of grace, hope and love. This week, why not ask God to open some doors (even one door) of opportunity for you to share your journey with Christ?
You might just change someone’s life.
I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective when you perceive all the good that we may do for Christ.—Philemon 1:6
—Susanne Hopkins