Don’t Waste Your Experiences

It is in the Father’s heart that we build each other up by motivating and inspiring one another. So encourage each other to build each other up, just as you are already doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:11 TLV)

People may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel. When you share your struggles and pain and how God came through for you, it gives people much-needed hope in today’s times. What you are essentially telling them is, “Here is how I did it and look, if God can bring me out of this, He will also do it for you too.” It helps break down the stronghold of fear and trauma. To them, you are now more than just a storyteller, you are a survivor, and you are a victor, not just a victim.

Sometime back, a pastor and his family called me for prayer. They were heartbroken because all of them were affected by the virus. To make matters worse, some people were condemning them because they had contracted the virus and said all sorts of mean things. As we prayed, I clearly remember the Holy Spirit saying, “God is birthing in you all a compassion for the sick and suffering. Your experience will help others overcome their pain.” They all wept and, at the same time, were overjoyed as the presence of God engulfed them.

They recently got in touch with me, telling me how they are now practically helping people who have contracted the virus and sharing their experiences. Many families have received hope and comfort through this. Hearing from someone who has already gone through what you are going through is inspirational and motivational.

1 Peter 2:9 tells us, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.”

Secondly, sharing your experiences will build connections and relationships in these dark times. It will let your light shine in seemingly dark places and provoke growth in a stagnant world.

The secular world places great emphasis on the experiences of people. Just think, what would have happened if every person reading this began to share their genuine experiences of how they overcame through Christ and His Word? It has the potential to spark a revolution.

Father, help me share the victories I have experienced in Christ Jesus. I pray for open hearts and open ears even as I do this. I also pray that it would provoke many others to share their experiences in Christ. In Jesus’ name. Amen