One of the most profound aspects of being human is the love of story. Stories powerfully change lives, leave us in wonder, connect us to one another. We reflect the image of the Greatest Storyteller of all time when we engage in the thrill of story. I personally do not discriminate the method of storytelling—be it a book, an award-winning play, time with a friend over coffee, a breathless recapturing of a child’s day, I am enamored by story. What’s more is that story is a universal gift, accessible by all. You, yes, you have a story.
The book of Revelation highlights the power of story when John, the author, shares how believers overcome the evil one by Jesus’ atoning blood and the word of their story (Revelation 12:11). We are saved by Jesus’ sacrifice and this becomes the first of new stories for us, stories of renewal, miracles, love. When we share these stories, the impact spreads and the power increases. There is nothing like hearing about an answered prayer to increase our faith for our own prayers. Encouragement comes when people share how they see God showing up in their lives. The evil one knows this and would rather silence us.
Sometimes the silencing comes in self-doubt. Did it really happen that way? Or perhaps in self-criticism—my story isn’t that grand. Dear one, let’s send these lies and the liar packing; there is no room for them. No matter how or when you came to faith, no matter your mistakes or triumphs, you have precious stories that witness to God’s lavish love, and we have the opportunity to be generous when we share these stories with others.
This month, Women Disciple is hosting a number of guest posts from women just like you and me—everyday women who love Jesus and who have a story to tell. As they open up their lives to us, may we be encouraged and refreshed. May we learn and be in wonder of the great God who see us, knows us, and loves us anyway. May we consider our own stories and how we, too, overcome the evil one by the “blood of the lamb and by the word of [our] testimonies” (Revelation 12: 11).
Movement Step: What stories do you have? It could be your salvation story, a powerful God-encounter, or a time when took a step of faith. Write down your stories. Remember them. Share them. With your story, you are more powerful than you know.
