“God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:8-10 (NLT)
We’ve all had our share of ups and downs. We’ve had good seasons, and bad seasons. And some have been through some downright horrible seasons. These experiences have created a story that’s unique to you, but relatable to others.
Other people are going through things that you’ve already been through, and they’re hurting.
Your unique giftings, passions, and experiences enable you to reach and influence these people in ways that others cannot.
So my question to you is this: How are you stewarding your story?
I want you to pause and think about that for a moment.
Do you share your story and encourage others who are facing those same trials? Or do you keep it to yourself, worried what others might think?
You might be thinking “I’m not a pastor. I’m just a [fill in the blank].” A bank teller, a waitress, an accountant, a sales rep, a stay-at-home mom. A yoga teacher.
Your job doesn’t excuse you (or me) from this.
Spreading the good news and encouraging people who are facing tough times is not only for pastors. It’s for all of us. Big stage, small stage, or no stage.
All of us.
Our spiritual enemy doesn’t want us to do this. He brings a cloud of shame and guilt, or makes us feel like our experience is insignificant. He wants us to keep it to ourselves and wear the mask of perfection, hiding our past faults, mistakes, or tragedies.
So what are we to do?
It’s time to think about how you can better steward your story.
I’m not saying you should grab a mic and hop up on a big stage somewhere, although you can certainly do that if that option is available to you.
Are there groups (online or local) where you could encourage and pray for others who are going through what you’ve been through?
Can you hold an event at your church (or approach them as a special speaker) where you share your story and tie in Biblical truths?
Are there any people in your sphere of influence who are going through something similar? Reach out. Share your story. Remember what it was like to go through that, and offer what you wish you had during that time.
Are there any organizations in your area where you could mentor the younger generation and help them avoid mistakes that you’ve made?
Are you a yoga teacher? God’s given you a special stage where you can impact your student’s lives in a deep and meaningful way.
How? By turning your story and message into a yoga series that can bring hope, healing, and restoration.
There will be more info coming up about using series to teach yoga and draw people closer to Jesus in the next few days, so stay tuned.
Not a teacher? Would you consider telling your teacher(s) about us? We’re feeling very strongly that God is leading us to empower teachers, which in turn will impact you and the rest of their students for the better.
Lastly, but most importantly, take this to God:
Pray: “In what ways am I not stewarding my story? Where am I falling short? Help me have the courage to reach out and speak up. Help me share my story and reflect your light into those dark and lonely places. Amen.”
-Nick