Developing your Testimony (Part 2)
Puzzle Piece #4: Be sensitive with your language. Instead of saying, “Can I tell you about something exciting in my life?” try saying, “Can I share something exciting in my life?” There’s a difference between telling and sharing. Using the word “telling” makes some people feel as though you’re pointing your finger at them. But “sharing” sounds more friendly. And that’s exactly what you want to create—a friendly situation. No one likes to feel stressed or trapped in listening.
The next three puzzle pieces deal specifically with the unique parts of your personal testimony. Without these pieces, you don’t have a testimony. (We’ll look at the first one today and the rest in the next few days.)
Puzzle Piece #5: Tell about your life BEFORE you met Christ. What was your lifestyle like? How did you think and act? Include attitude and habits. Examples: “I was selfish. I thought about using others to get ahead.” “I was only interested in what I could get out of life.” “I partied a lot and was always searching for something better. Anything that would make me feel good for the moment was an option.”