As I sat in the last worship service for the month of February, I listened to a story of transformation not realizing this would be the very thing I was to write about. I listened to a story of a family that has been transformed by the power of God. In the last five years God has brought this couple from having no relationship with Him, to having a vibrant fellowship and communion with one another, others, and most importantly with God.
I had the opportunity to speak to the husband just before service and he stated that he was nervous about sharing his past and all of his mistakes. But I told him that “all of it” was his story! God had given him a story to tell! A story of redemption and change, a story of hope and peace, a story of transformation and eternal life! Therefore regardless of it being good, bad, or indifferent it is still your STORY!
I am reminded of the account in John 4 of the woman at the well and Jesus’ encounter with her. After she understood who He was she went into the city and told her story! Her story wasn’t pretty, it wasn’t all nice and neat wrapped in a bow, but it was her story. Jesus loved her enough to let her know that her story did not have to continue the way it was going, it could change and it did!
Every person in our classes has a story. It may be painful. There might be a few bumps and bruises along the way, but there is one thing that can be said about it, it’s REAL! Every time we tell our story it should remind us of the transformation that has taken place in our lives, but it will also show people that Christianity is real. We will stumble and fall but we have a Savior who is Christ the Lord and He will pick us up and help us on our journey of transformation because our story isn’t finished!
Many are not comfortable or ready to tell their stories. Set aside time for the people in your class to tell their stories! It may be the very thing that is needed for the hour. Prepare them for telling their stories for when the Holy Spirit wants to use them in their walk through life!
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Dwayne Lee serves as Associate Group Leader for the Bible Teaching/Leadership Team of the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio.
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