For the Record: Your Story Matters

Bible Passage: Psalm 78:4-7, Revelation 12:11, 2 Timothy 1:8-10

Have you ever listened to a record before? If not a cd may be more common but even those are starting to fade away. But back when records were more common...in order for a story to change you had to change the record out but each record held a unique story/album to it.

Big Idea: Your life story is a vital part of God’s narrative—share it boldly, for it has the power to change lives.

1. Pass Down Your Praise

Psalm 78:4-7

Simply stating the importance of sharing the wonders and instructions of God with the next generation. Recounting God’s deeds isn’t just about remembering, but it also empowers and inspires future generations to trust and obey God. Storytelling is a profound way to honor God.

One of the most powerful apologetics in the world can be a testimony of your faith in Jesus.

Edward E. Hindson

Imagine a jar of marbles, each representing a blessing or moment of gratitude. If I just put my marble in this jar, it may not seem impressive. But if everyone put 1 marble in the jar would fill very quickly. Our praise together adds to something bigger. Praise alone may seem small on their own but praise that is built together creates something better.

I have personally been encouraged by stories of faith that people share about God’s faithfulness in hardships. Why?

2. Testimony Triumphs Through Trials

Revelation 12:11

The truth will always be God triumphed over evil by the blood of the Lamb and the word of the saints testimony. Personal testimonies can be powerful when it overcomes darkness. It suggests that your story, alongside Christ’s sacrifice, plays a role in spiritual victory. Your audience could be inspired to consider how their life's story can contribute to overcoming spiritual battles.

The Christian life is not a playground; it is a battle-ground.

Warren W. Wiersbe

Spiritual blessings must be balanced with burdens and battles; otherwise, we may become pampered children instead of mature sons and daughters.

Warren W. Wiersbe

Consider a young gardener who was excited to grow her first plant. Watering it daily, she noticed weeds popping up, making her frustrated. But instead of giving up, she learned that pulling those weeds helped her plant to bloom more beautifully. Trials are just like weeds—they can be annoying but also teach us how to nurture our faith and help us flourish. Trials can often lead to the most beautiful triumphs in life, just like that resilient flower!

3. Courageous Connections

2 Timothy 1:8-10

Paul encourages Timothy not to be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord. God saves and calls us are integral to our witness, offering encouragement despite hardship. Sharing your story boldly is part of living out your faith and connecting with others who may feel alone in their own struggles.

“one man with courage makes a majority,”

Warren W. Wiersbe

We need to learn that sharing the gospel is successful evangelism.

Donald S. Whitney

Next Steps:

Share your story of faith, your experiences can inspire and uplift others in their struggles and uncertainties. They may even lead people to Christ so their record can change.

As you attend school events or community gatherings, you may notice peers struggling with self-identity or peer pressure. When approaching these conversations, share your story of faith—especially the moments you questioned your place in the world but found strength through Christ. You might even say, 'In my hardest moments, having faith helped me navigate who I really am.' By doing so, you provide a perspective that faith can be a source of strength, potentially leading others to seek that same hope in their lives.