WRITTEN BY DR. JIM GRASSI
People have debated the existence of God practically since time began. In formal debate, such arguments can be categorized as logical, empirical, metaphysical, subjective, or scientific – and can become quite heady. The Apostle Paul knew the Scriptures thoroughly and was very educated. Yet, when he had the opportunity to share Christ with kings and other prominent people, He almost always simply told his story. Why? Because no one can argue with your story. There is power in your story. People often see their own life and are moved.
Jesus calls us to influence others for Him. One of the most powerful ways to accomplish this is by telling our story – what life was like before we came to Christ, how we came to Christ, and what Christ has subsequently done in our lives. This is our BIG story. As followers of Jesus, we should all tell it, but we should also tell our little stories – what are sometimes called “God stories.” What Jesus has done and is doing in our lives right now – how we see Him at work around us – can be very impactful and encouraging.
Stories engage listeners on an emotional level, making information more relatable and fostering a connection. Our stories don’t have to be epic, just truthful and sincere. Being honest about what we don’t know or what has been hard is important and refreshing. His death and resurrection saved us once and for all, but we need Him every day. It can be a relief to know we struggle, our faith isn’t perfect, and God is actively at work in our lives. After all, life gets messy. Being a Christian does not mean having a perfect life – far from it – but God is strong when we are weak. The Lord told Paul,
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Our stories also encourage and strengthen other believers, reminding them that God is faithful and is still in the business of transforming lives. From the beginning, Jesus called His disciples to follow Him and fish for men, and just before ascending, he said,
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28: 19-20a).
As we go through life, He wants us to make disciples – lead others to salvation and participate in their spiritual growth. This happens through relationships, and sharing our own experiences with authenticity builds relationships organically. Embracing our vulnerabilities and highlighting God’s goodness and faithfulness can challenge the other person, motivate them to open up about their own struggles, and help them deepen their relationship with Christ. Before you know it, they’ll be telling their own God stories.
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 3:15
Personal Application: Watch for God’s working around you this week and share your experience with someone. What are some God stories from your past? Who needs to hear them?
- Taken in part from Getting in the Game: Joining Jesus on Mission by Dr. Jim Grassi, Rev. Wendell Morton, with Pastor Rob Fischer
Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5