Sharing Our Faith Stories

Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart,

and with all your soul, and with all your might.

Keep these words that I am commanding you today in your heart.

Recite them to your children and talk about them when you are at home

and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise.

—Deuteronomy 6:4-7 (NRSV)

In the above verses, God expressly told the Hebrews to share the stories of their faith. Unfortunately, I think we have wandered away from this mandate. All Christians have faith stories; it is important to share them and for others to hear them.

• How have you shared your faith with your children and grandchildren?

As you spend time with your children, grandchildren, or others, talk about God and your relationship with God. Let these conversations happen naturally as you interact. Sharing your faith in such a way is less threatening to the other person (and possibly to you).

• How do others see you living out your faith?

Faith is something Christians should exhibit every moment of every day. Yes, there are times of doubt, but those times are part of one’s faith journey. Pray and read the Bible with your family, even when company is present. Make prayer an integral part of your daily routine. Praise and thank God; turn to God for strength and comfort. Let others know that you believe in God. Be involved in God’s work and invite others to join you. Your example will make an impact.

You may be thinking, “But I don’t have any children or grandchildren.” There are still those people with whom you interact—whether they are co-workers, nieces and nephews, or even the clerk at the grocery store—who need to hear your faith stories. Ask God to provide opportunities for you to share those stories, and be prepared to do so! God will bless your efforts!