Testimony.
Some have big shining moments in life. They make big statements, write loud books, and step out on platforms larger than life. Then there’s the rest of us.
We climb through grueling pits gasping for oxygen. We stand in the shadows finding peace. Mountaintops are short and shorelines are rain puddles after light showers. Our testimonies go unnoticed and are often underwhelming to others. Pits or peace are all the same compared to the best sellers, celebrity faith speakers, and online trend setters.
But in all of the above feelings and thoughts, should we really compare our testimonies to anyone else’s? Do we want to walk in their shoes, find further pressure, or feel the need to glorify our stories?
The bulk of us may feel meek in our changes, but God calls us all the same.
1 John 5:11 ESV
And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
It’s as simple as that. Nothing flashy, nothing earth shattering, and nothing that needs big names to sell the moment. But in that simplicity, it’s life giving, life changing, soul saving, and the truest love that has ever existed. It doesn’t shatter the earth, but blows the rough off, leading us straight to eternity.
Share the Gospel. Share Jesus. Live the life of a changed person walking in freedom from comparison. Click To TweetPsalm 71:15-18 ESV
My mouth will tell of your righteous acts, of your deeds of salvation all the day, for their number is past my knowledge. With the mighty deeds of the Lord God I will come; I will remind them of your righteousness, yours alone. O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds. So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come.
No need for a stage. No book deals. No internet followings. No insta-parties. Just share. If it sounds meek, share. When it sounds jumbled, share. When it’s simple, share. If it’s big, share.
Share the Gospel. Share Jesus. Live the life of a changed person walking in freedom from comparison.
My testimony keeps changing, and my birth is the starting point. I had no great conversation moment, but I did have a breaking point when I knew things needed new life breathed in. Here’s a taste of my testimony at this link and I encourage you to share yours as well.
Each of us has a story and we never know how our simple story might inspire someone else. Yet, it’s hard to take the risk sometimes. What will people think? Is my testimony dramatic enough? Too heavy? And on and on … Thanks for reminding us to just share them. Blessings!
My testimony is more a series of quiet steps than an overnight change. I love how God works in all of us all the time if we ask.
Comparison is the thief of joy. I want to walk free of comparison, and share my story that God has given me to encourage others.
Amen! Great post! Thank you for that encouragement. I shared my testimony in my post “Penang, Pearl of the Orient” at https://teawithjennifer.blog/2018/06/08/penang-pearl-of-the-orient/
Blessings,
Jennifer
It really is this simple, Maryann. I don’t know why we think it needs to be more than this. Thanks for reminding us that our stories matter and make a HUGE difference for God’s kingdom!
I recently shared my testimony on FB for all to see. I love to hear other people’s testimonies, too, regardless of whether or not we belong to the same faith. We need people from all faiths and denominations to lift up their voices for Christ! Thank you for your message!
YES to all this! The foundation of our testimony is what HE did for us. So grateful!
I love hearing how God calls each of us to Him in a different way! Always beautiful
I have often lamented that my testimony lacks drama and excitement. Thank you for the wake up reminder that it’s MY God-given testimony and that’s enough period! Your words always inspire me Maryann!
What a wonderful reminder. Our testimonies are important. No matter how small they may seem, our story is important.
This was exactly the message I needed to hear this morning. After I share my testimony I second guess myself and want to hide under a rock after being so vulnerable. Thank you for being a vessel to confirm that sharing for God’s glory is worth it, even if it’s hard, humbling, or humiliating.