Change the world....

by Dan Stevers @ http://www.danstevers.com/

A heartwarming testimony...

  "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." ~John 3:16  

God tells us that it's important to share your faith with other people (see Matthew 28:20).  One of the greatest blessings of the Christian life is being able to help lead someone to Jesus Christ. It is a real joy to see someone else experience the same things you did when you became a Christian. "But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!" ~John 9:25 (NLT). Sharing your faith can sound a bit scary and intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. One of the best ways you can share your faith is by sharing your story. When you share how God has changed your life, it lets people see that you were once in their shoes, but have now been changed by the power of Christ. A changed life is the best evidence of what Jesus can do. 

Here are some ways that can help you share your story, or testimony, with your friends, family, or other people you know.  You can share the basics of what Christ has done for you in minutes by sharing three key points:

My Life before Christ

Don't glorify your past, but talk about what it was like before you became a Christian:

"I felt empty inside and nothing could fill it" (see Ecclesiastes 3:11).

"I felt separated from God" (see Isaiah 59:2).

"My life was dominated by sin and with pleasing myself" (see Luke 15:11-24).

My Life Changed by Christ

Talk about how you came into a relationship with Christ. Mention the important parts of the gospel:

"I realized that I'm a sinner" (see Romans 3:23).

"I recognized that Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins" (see Romans 5:8).

"I repented, or turned away, from my sins" (see Acts 3:19).

"I received Jesus Christ as Lord of my life" (see Revelation 3:20).

My New Life in Christ

Talk about how your life is different now that you are a Christian.

"God has given me peace" (see Romans 5:1).

"God has a wonderful plan for my life" (see Jeremiah 29:11).

"I know that I'm going to heaven" (see John 3:36).

Put your faith into action and share with someone the relationship you have with Christ...and see the power of the Holy Spirit at work!

Another great Witnessing tool is shared at http://www.wayofthemaster.com/

Have you ever questioned God and wonder where He is at in this thing called "life"?  I have, sooo many times,  but I find myself more often now seeing His providence.  I started my new life in Christ 8 years ago.....finally accepting and knowing I could not do it on my own anymore, I needed help!  As soon as I let go and let God be in control...my life changed in a dramatic way.  I had to hold on to and believe God's promises and I held on to the verse from Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future".With the Lords help and strength, I have been victorious in overcoming depression and anxiety.  These two things were so debilitating for me that I had given up on life and given up on myself.

I know now that God has a calling for me and daily I take a step of faith to live it.  In the last 8 years,  I have basked in the Spirit of His faithfulness, mercy and grace, asking the Lord to help me trust Him and live for Him.   Life is never perfect and a Christian life guarantees difficulties which are ment to refine you, grow you and stretch you more into the image of Christ.

Over the last several years there have been so many challenges, trials, and changes in our family.  My husband has several health issues which has caused him to go on disability late last year, we lost our home to foreclosure and had to move in with family till we could get on our feet again.  Seemingly, the one important thing we have learned through this journey is that God has a higher purpose and plan.

My husband's health is still a big issue but we know and trust that God is going to heal him for that greater purpose.  We also have gained  a wondrous,  life changing relationship with our Heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit.  We now pray, live and do our best to carry out our purpose in His kingdom work. We are seeking the Lord in everything we do and we are learning to trust where He leads us. Trust isn't really trust until it's put to the test but His track record is without flaw and His ways are always perfect.  We fall and stumble on a daily basis but dust our selves off and do our best to keep our eyes on Him.  We also know that "...in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." ~Romans 8:28.

I am prayerful that this blogging opportunity will open up doors to be a blessing and an encouragement to others.  Feel free to share any prayer requests or share how the Lord has been working in your life....Grace and Blessings!

Is God Good?

Joyce Meyer - 

Doing Spiritual Warfare God's Way