Easier Than You Think: Why Sharing Your Story Matters
We all love a good story. Whether it’s a gripping movie, a compelling book, or a Netflix series we can’t stop binging—stories draw us in. Why? Because stories connect us. They stir something deep in our souls. They remind us that we’re not alone, that others have walked through struggles, asked the same questions, and found hope.
Today, I want to talk about your story—because sharing your story is one of the most powerful ways to share Jesus. And believe it or not, it’s easier than you might think.
“But I’m Not That Kind of Person…”
Let’s be honest: the idea of sharing your story can feel intimidating. You might be thinking, “I’ll do a lot of things, but this? Nope.” You’re not alone. Even Jesus’ first disciples weren’t exactly poster children for bold faith. After Jesus rose from the dead, they didn’t respond with, “I told you so.” They doubted. They questioned. One of them, Thomas, refused to believe at all until he saw it for himself.
But something happened. As God got hold of their lives, they couldn’t help but share. They didn’t share perfect theology—they shared their experience. They shared their story.
In 1 Peter 3:15, Peter—one of Jesus’ closest disciples—writes:
“If someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.”
That’s all your story is: an explanation of your hope.
Preparing the Soil
This blog is part of a broader conversation we’ve been having. We’ve been talking about how to create relational pathways to share Jesus:
- Start with prayer. Talk to God about people before you talk to people about God.
- Listen. Truly hear others before expecting them to hear you.
- Eat. Meals can be spiritual, not just social—they open doors.
- Serve. When you serve people, their hearts often open in unexpected ways.
These relational practices make space for sharing your story—not in a cold, awkward way—but in the context of trust, kindness, and connection.
Sharing Your Story: A Simple Framework
So what does sharing your story actually look like? Here’s a basic three-part outline:
- Before – What was your life like before Jesus?
- How – How did you encounter Jesus?
- After – How has your life changed since?
Let me walk you through mine. I call it “From Darkness to Light.”
Before: I was running as far from Jesus as I could. I didn’t want anything to do with Christianity, the church, or Christians. I was chasing alternate spirituality, Eastern religions, and honestly, a lot of mind-altering experiences. I was a “Deadhead”—a huge fan of the Grateful Dead. I chased experiences, but nothing brought peace.
How: At my lowest, I ended up in Lake Tahoe, working at a café. A server named Ruth handed me an invitation to church. I almost tossed it out, but something made me hold on. Ruth and her husband Peter had a story of their own—they’d come out of a dark past and found Jesus. Eventually, I showed up to church. I gave Jesus six months. He didn’t need that long.
After: Everything changed. I found a community, discovered purpose, and slowly, God started reshaping my life. I even met my future wife, Lisa, through the same couple that first invited me to church. Life hasn’t been perfect—but Jesus has been faithful.
Your Story Matters
Now, your story might be totally different—and that’s the point. Maybe your story isn’t dramatic. Maybe it’s about surviving a divorce, walking through a health crisis, or dealing with anxiety at school or work. Maybe you grew up in church but encountered Jesus in a deeper way later on.
Whatever your story looks like, it fits into this outline:
- Before – The struggle, the pain, the questions.
- How – The encounter with Jesus, whether sudden or slow.
- After – The hope, peace, and purpose you’ve found (even if the problem isn’t fully resolved).
And here’s the best part: no one can argue with your story.
A Biblical Example: The Blind Man
In John 9, Jesus heals a man who was blind from birth. The religious leaders grill him with theological questions, trying to trip him up. His response?
“I don’t know whether he’s a sinner. But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see.” (John 9:25)
That’s the power of a story. Simple. Honest. Undeniable.
Stories Plant Seeds
Stories are not just personal—they’re also engaging. Jesus told stories all the time. Matthew 13:34 tells us:
“Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, he never spoke to them without using such parables.”
Why? Because stories reach the heart.
When you share your story, you’re planting a seed. It might not bear fruit right away, but it might spark something in someone—maybe, just maybe, they’ll start to believe that there’s hope for them too.
Your Story Can Lead Someone to Jesus
So here’s the challenge: Who in your life needs to hear your story?
Who is waiting—perhaps unknowingly—for the hope you carry?
As you pray, listen, eat, and serve, ask God to open a door. And when the opportunity comes, share what you know: “I was blind, but now I see.”
Because your story might be the beginning of someone else’s.