Your heart should be holy and set apart for the Lord God. Always be ready to tell everyone who asks you why you believe as you do. Be gentle as you speak and show respect.

1 Peter 3:15 (NLV

Considered one of the founders of Hollywood, Cecil B. De Mille once said, “The greatest art in the world is the art of storytelling.” Hollywood certainly knows that stories are powerful, but you have a much more important story to tell than any Hollywood screenplay. Your testimony is your story of God’s work in your life. You may not think it’s an epic adventure, but no evidence of God is ever wasted. You are His messenger. He wants to use your story of faith to shine into others’ darkness and unlock the prison they don’t even know is holding them.  

Preparing to tell your testimony takes a little planning. God tells you to be ready to explain to others why you have hope in Him, and that takes some thought and prayer. Next, write out your testimony and focus on 4 main points: 1) what your life was like before you accepted Jesus, 2) what made you recognize your need for Him, 3) the grace of God and salvation through Jesus Christ, and 4) the difference He has made in your life. Then, practice sharing your story with friends and family to help you become more comfortable. No matter how you tell your story, the main message is always the same: God transforms lives, and once you have met the real Jesus, your life will never be the same! 

It can be uncomfortable sharing your story with others, but Jesus doesn’t say to wait until you’re comfortable. He just says to tell everyone (Matthew 28:19-20), and to be bold and brave because He is with you (Joshua 1:9). The life Jesus has given you is a very big deal, and He, who was hung on a tree for you, asks His children to go out on a limb for Him. Yours may just be the voice that can answer the question someone’s heart has been asking. So be ready! You are loved!