Congratulations! You recently shared your faith story at Cornerstone. Thank you! Your church is grateful to have heard your testimony. It’s encouraging to reflect on God’s faithfulness over our lives. At Cornerstone, we want to continue to help each other grow to maturity. Here are three simple steps you can take to keep following Jesus:
Step 1. Take Time To Reflect
You’ve just written, refined, and shared your faith story with the whole church. Our faith stories are often very personal and sometimes difficult to put into words. Take an hour or afternoon and journal, pray, and think about what God taught you through this process. If you need to debrief with a friend, Elder, or Pastor, we’d love to meet with you. Here are a few questions to get you started:
- What did I learn about myself?
- What is God saying to me?
- Where does my journey seem to be going?
- How can I encourage others with my story?
Step 2. Share Your Story Again
Option A. With a Christian
Think of a fellow believer who is a good brother or sisters in Christ, or maybe just someone who you think needs to be encouraged. Call them up and ask if you can get together to share your faith story (testimony) with them. Explain how you recently shared it at your church and would like to share it with them since they weren’t there. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” (NIV®) This is a great way to continue the encouragement!
Option B. With a Non-Christian
Think of a friend, coworker, family-member, or neighbor who doesn’t know Jesus yet. Invite them out to a meal or coffee so you can tell them your story. After you share, ask them a follow-up question, like, “So what do you think?” or “Where are you at in your faith story?” I know this idea may terrify you, but in 2 Timothy 1:7 it says, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (NIV®) You have the very Holy Spirit of God in you to help you do this! Walk forward trusting Him.
Let the Prayer Network know so we can pray for you: prayer@cornerstonewestford.com
Step 3. Help Someone Craft Their Story
Now since you’ve written your faith story, you can help a friend craft theirs. Please feel free to share the Faith Story Guide with them. Sit and talk with them, give them feedback, and encourage them to share it with their church.
Parents, I especially encourage you to talk with your children and teenagers about writing their faith stories after they’ve heard yours. True, they may not have yet developed a full-fledged testimony, but you may be surprised to hear how God is guiding them. By doing this you’re helping them learn to reflect on God’s active presence in their lives. You never know, they may be ready to share their faith story with the whole congregation.