Everyone loves stories. Why? Because stories are interesting and fun to listen to. They touch our emotions, teach us lessons, communicate truths and illustrate ideas. They also connect people to each other – and sometimes to God.

FaithStories are a recounting of how individuals came to know God. At Wooddale, we hear a personal FaithStory almost every week. They are powerful, touching and motivating. Sometimes just hearing another person’s story is enough to start another individual on the path toward faith.

Everyone has a story to tell. Some are dramatic, some ordinary, but they all tell how God pursues us because he loves us. God wants us to know him and experience his goodness and all he has for us. Equally true is that God wants to use us to help others know him, too.

Have you ever organized and written down your FaithStory? It’s a valuable exercise that will help you clarify how God lovingly pursued you and changed your life. Knowing your own story will help you share it when asked by a friend, co-worker or acquaintance why you believe what you believe.

Here are some tips to help you do it:
Pray and ask God what he wants to say through your FaithStory.

Be clear. It helps to write out your story completely. Someone once said, “Put it in writing. It eliminates fuzz.”

Be concise. Preparing a FaithStory is not writing a life story. Be selective in what you say and focus on your overall theme. It will help to organize your story in three sections – what your life was like before you became a believer, how you became a believer, what your life is like after you became a believer. Normally, the three sections aren’t all equal length.

Focus on Jesus and the difference he has made in your life. Give him credit and honor. And never criticize others – it alienates listeners.

God wants to use you. He has given you a story to share with others. Go ahead; make the effort. Work at your FaithStory. Share your FaithStory. Have it ready when someone you care about asks you what you believe over lunch, in the backyard or at the water cooler. You will be doing what the Bible says in 1 Peter 3:15: But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect…