Saturday, May 8, 2021

No Bows Necessary

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8AB0vUU038

Overcome ~ Jeremy Camp

"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…” ~ Revelations 12:11 NKJV

Is Testimony 1) a story I tell about the challenges I have overcome in my life; or 2) the action of giving an eye witness? Unfortunately, the first definition has been more accurate of my view. Don’t misunderstand; I knew that Jesus was the only reason for victory in my life, but I failed to understand that the point of a testimony is to point to Jesus.

After her baptism, Savannah was given “The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name,” with the underlying purpose of showing that a Savior was needed since the beginning. Only through Him do we have our victory. Sadly, many Christians believe that once they know Jesus, and have witnessed victory in their lives, that will be the end of their trials and victories. Many also feel--and I have fallen into this trap--that we have to see the victory in order for it to be part of our testimony; that, somehow, Christ isn’t enough if there isn’t a happy-ending-bow to tie off that part of the story. Please know that Jesus doesn’t need us to add anything to Him or His story. Rather, Jesus invites us to be part of His story as He uses our lives to demonstrate His power and glory. 

If you feel your story isn’t worth telling, let me assure you that knowing Jesus is something that others need to hear. Revelations 12:11 says, “They overcame [the Accuser] by the Blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.” The Liar, the Accuser, is working hard to convince you that you’re the only one feeling this pain or enduring this struggle. Sharing our stories with others--even in the midst of a trial, with lack of a happy-ending-bow--helps them realize they aren’t alone. Remember, your story isn’t about you. Your story is being written to point others to Jesus.

©Heather Potts 2021

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