The Biscuit TrailNäide

Sharing Your Story

The crowds were angry enough to kill Paul. He might've died if the Roman soldiers weren't protecting him. But when they heard him speak their language, they became still, and they listened.

Now, in that example, they did eventually lose their minds again and continue trying to murder Paul. But it is interesting that when they see they have something in common with him, they stop and listen to his story. They become willing to hear the reason for his faith, if only briefly.

Your faith in Jesus may put you at odds with some. If the only thing people know about us is that we believe in Jesus and they don't, it might feel like spiritual conversations are a battleground. Heels can get dug in and hackles raised. But our stories make us relatable and can point people to Jesus in powerful ways.

What were you like before you believed? How are you changing now? What convinced you to believe in Jesus? We might not all be Christians, but we are all human, and relating to one another's experiences can be a bonding experience that builds trust and understanding. If people can see how your life is changing, and understand the reasons that are compelling for you, it can help them learn to trust Jesus themselves.

Or maybe not. When we share our story, we risk rejection. It might not be as life-threatening for you as it was for Paul, but it can still hurt. In your heart, revere Christ as Lord, not the opinion of your peers. If you suffer, remember who you are suffering with. If we suffer with Him, we will be glorified with Him.

Action

Try writing a 3-minute summary of how Jesus has changed your life and why you chose to follow him. Ask a friend who doesn't believe, if you can share it with them and see what they think.

Prayer

Confess the ways in which you have been more influenced by fear of your peers than love for Jesus. Ask the Lord to cultivate courage in your heart.

Pray for words, clarity and power as you seek to share the difference Jesus makes for you.

Pray for those who persecute the church, and anyone you fear speaking to, that their hearts would soften and they would be drawn to Jesus.