Last week we learned the reason David took five stones to face Goliath. He knew going to war with one giant meant going to war with all the giants.
One of the giants I have had to face in my life is the repercussions of my testimony. On a ministry trip to Canada many years ago, I had been asked to share my music and to share my story. Just as I was being introduced and preparing to walk onto the platform and share with several thousand people, a man grabbed my arm and pulled me aside and said, “What you’re about to do by sharing your story is going to do more damage than good.” Meaning he thought one’s sexual temptation and orientation defined one’s true identity.
My personal belief is that neither temptation nor orientation define anyone. Orientations can be changed. One can reorient themselves in regard to what they believe. Temptation is simply an opportunity to cry out to God and find intimacy with Him.
My response to the man was first one of fear…that he was threatening me physically. He was very angry and very insistent that I not share my story. After security pulled him away from me, I walked onto that platform and told the audience what had just happened and pointed to the man who had just confronted me. I then asked the question, “Do you feel I am doing more harm than good by sharing my story? Should I share my story? Does that man speak for you and this conference? If you don’t want me to share my story, then I will gladly step down and walk away. I am compelled by the Word of God to share my testimony. That is why I am here…but if it is not wanted, then I will leave.”
The response was immediate and overwhelming. The entire audience stood to their feet and began shouting at me to share my story and to glorify God. I did just that…and many, many people were set free that day from all manner of spiritual captivity. I defeated that giant of fear by believing I am who my Father says I am.
What giants do you face today? What are some obstacles that might keep you from sharing your testimony of faith? God’s Word tells us in Psalm 107:1-2 to let the redeemed of the Lord say so! One of the best ways to overcome fear of sharing your story is to simply share your story with one other person as the opportunity arises.
"And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life [even] when faced with death.” Revelation 12:11 NASB
Be the overcomer God says you are and do not be afraid to say so. The world has no problem sharing their so-called truths. We should not fear sharing the truth of God’s Word. When we share, we overcome the enemy and His lies. That is THE truth!
Dennis Jernigan
To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this short teaching, go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/you-are-1624372955/
Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2014/12/03/19/05/boxing-555735_1280.jpg