“I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.” Philippians 1:12
I had the extreme honor of spending this past weekend with the ladies of Christ Church Memphis for their annual women’s retreat. This year’s theme was “This is my Story. This is my Song.” I was there to share my story with them, but throughout the weekend I was able to hear some of their stories as well.
Many of the ladies there didn’t think they had much to offer or say. They felt that because their life journey was not dramatic in some way, that it was not valuable. Most of them were nervous about opening up and sharing their difficulties, afraid they might be judged. Several women expressed that they did not feel equipped or eloquent enough to tell their story in a way that would make anyone want to listen. I get it. I have felt all those things at times–and I have been wrong.
The truth is our stories are each uniquely crafted by God as He uniquely crafts us into His priceless masterpiece. Every circumstance, every encounter, every trial, every joy we experience serves a purpose. Ephesians 2:10 is clear that “…we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” That walk is our story. The good works Paul is referring to is all that God graciously allows us to do for His purpose and glory. And our testimony of God’s faithfulness as we walk is our song.
Sometimes our stories take an exceptional, unexpected turn and sometimes they seem ordinary and mundane, but they are always powerful when they point souls to Jesus.The world is full of lost, dying, hopeless people that desperately need to hear the Gospel we contain!
Tell your story!
Sing your song!
I enjoyed this so much. I was visiting with my friend Emily Richardson, who recently joined Christ Church. Also our friend, Angie Anzini came too. Emily, a Methodist, Angie, a Baptist and me, a member of an Assembly of God Church. The three of us have never believed in our church denominations separating us because it is JESUS who is the author and finisher of our faith. I was touched by your testimony. It truly IS Christ IN US, that is the hope of glory. Thank you for sharing and lifting Christ higher for all the world to see!! Next year, I told Emily I’d like to return but I will skip bringing makeup because the the anointing was so strong, that tears continuously flowed!! It was a beautiful manifestation of how God has brought beauty from ashes!!
Susan, I am so glad you were with us at the retreat! Those times of rest, renewal and complete focus on Him are so important! We think of tears as markers of sadness, but they can bring tremendous healing and hope. Thank you for sharing your experience! Tell your story!