Once Upon A Time

When was the last time you shared your story? I’m not talking about just the one you would consider your testimony. I’m talking about the countless stories of life experiences that for some reason we seem to keep bottled inside. Any of us who have spent more than a few years on this earth have plenty of stories to tell. Unfortunately, we rarely ever retell them because we don’t realize the impact they can have on someone else’s life.

A few days ago, I had the opportunity to spend the day with an amazing young lady and all we did was sit and share stories for hours. The more stories I told, the more she soaked them in. The more she soaked them in, the more stories I told. Things I hadn’t thought about in years somehow seemed to effortlessly be brought back to my remembrance. While I was enjoying reminiscing, she was receiving revelation.

Sharing your stories don’t have to be difficult or intimidating. Here are a few things you can keep in mind to make the most of your storytelling experiences.

Share the part of your story that would be most beneficial to the person you’re talking to. Every story is not for every person. Get a feel for what it is the person you’re talking to needs and share your stories that most relate to that area of need. The best way to get a feel for this is to listen intensely to what the other person is saying, and to listen even closer to what the Holy Spirit is saying.

Take notice of the other person’s non-verbal ques. While you may be having fun going down memory lane, the person in front of you may be ready to take the next available exit. If they’re fidgety, distracted, or literally nodding off; that’s a clear indication that you’ve been talking too long or that your story is not connecting. If they’re engaged, leaning in, and hanging on to every word; that’s a great sign that they’re receptive and hungry more.

Open up the conversation by asking the other person if they have any questions. Telling your story is one thing. Answering a person’s questions related to your story takes it to a whole different level. Not only does this allow the person to better relate to and learn from your story, but it also gives you the opportunity to hear more of what they need. This will greatly help you to know if story time is over, or give you insight on which of your stories you need to share next.

Resist the urge to continue talking while the Holy Spirit is working. Sometimes we get so excited that someone is willing to listen, that we just continue to keep on talking. Well, there’s a time to talk and there’s a time to refrain from talking. We need to be sensitive enough to notice when the Holy Spirit is ministering to the other person and choose to refrain from talking during these times. Don’t feel the need to fill every second of the airwaves with words. Remember… silence is your friend. 

Yield the outcome to God. Whatever you do, don’t try to force the other person to respond to your stories in any particular way. Share what you feel like you’re supposed to share and leave the rest up to God. Only He can connect all the pieces and cause your stories to bring revelation, clarity, and answers to the other person. When we try to fenagle the outcome, it can be manipulation. But when we allow God to produce the fruit, it is always masterful!

So, go for it! Don’t be afraid. Begin sharing your stories. There’s someone out there who could benefit from your once upon a time!

To go even deeper, get your copy of one or all of our Everyday Wisdom Book Series and subscribe to our Everyday Wisdom Podcast.