How can we "tell these things" to others about God's work in our lives? The Verse in Focus “Jesus did not let him, but said, ‘Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you and how He has had mercy on you.’” — Mark 5:19 Why Our Story Matters • God entrusts personal testimony as a living proof of His power (Psalm 66:16). • Sharing magnifies Him, not us (Isaiah 12:4). • Our words may open hearts that would not be moved by arguments alone (Revelation 12:11). Practical Steps to “Tell These Things” 1. Remember the Details – List specific answers to prayer, guiding verses, and turning points. – Keep a journal; memories fade, but written records stay sharp (Deuteronomy 6:12). 2. Start at Home – Jesus directed the healed man to his “own people.” Family and close friends see the change first. – Be natural; weave God’s work into everyday conversation (Mark 5:19). 3. Keep Christ Central – Highlight what “the Lord has done,” not personal effort (Ephesians 2:8-9). – Point to His mercy; grace stories resonate universally. 4. Speak the Word – Integrate Scripture that shaped your journey (Hebrews 4:12). – Memorize a few key verses; they supply authority and clarity (Isaiah 55:11). 5. Be Ready for Any Setting – Short version for casual moments, fuller version when time allows (1 Peter 3:15). – Use relatable language; avoid clichés outsiders may not grasp. 6. Live What You Say – Consistent conduct backs up testimony (Philippians 2:15-16). – Quick repentance when you stumble reinforces authenticity. 7. Trust the Spirit’s Timing – Pray for prepared hearts (Acts 16:14). – Accept that results belong to God (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). Living Examples from Scripture • Samaritan woman—immediately told her town, leading many to Christ (John 4:28-30). • Blind man healed—boldly testified under pressure, “One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I see” (John 9:25). • Peter and John—could not “stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). What to Avoid • Exaggeration—truth is powerful enough (Proverbs 30:6). • Harsh debate—“Let your speech always be gracious” (Colossians 4:6). • Spiritual jargon without explanation—seek clarity over complexity. Encouragement to Keep Going – The same Lord who sent the delivered man sends us (John 20:21). – The Spirit empowers ordinary believers for extraordinary influence (Acts 1:8). – Every testimony, however small, becomes another light pointing to Christ (Matthew 5:16). |
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