Counsel #14 — Your Story

Picture: Counsel #14 — Your StoryCWe 24.1

A wise pastor once told me that God never blesses you for only your own benefit — He also blesses you to comfort and encourage other people. This powerful realization is something that every believer needs to understand especially while experiencing life’s really difficult times as God restores His image in us.CWe 24.2

Think about it: whenever you’ve gone through a tough time, didn’t it help to hear someone say, “I’ve been there, but this is how God brought me through”? When you overcome a stronghold or hardship, do you take the credit for yourself, or do you shine the light back on God? Sometimes, people need to hear your testimony of how you overcame to truly believe God can do the same for them. If someone’s battling with an addiction that you overcame, encourage them by sharing how Christ helped you. If someone is harboring a heart of unforgiveness, share how God helped you let go of grudges and extend grace. Believe it or not, your story has power — you never know who needs to hear how God changed your life! Ask Him for the opportunities and courage to share your personal experience of His goodness in your life.^{[22]https://broadhurst.adventisthost.org/bibleinfo_topics/encouragement?_=1738558597042.1414}CWe 24.3

“As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:20 NIVCWe 24.4

“If we have been following Jesus step by step, we shall have something right to the point to tell concerning the way in which He has led us.” Ellen White in Christian Service, p. 17CWe 24.5

Reflect: Who can you encourage in your life by sharing your testimony?CWe 24.6