What Is Your Story? by Tara Randel

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At my church, we’ve been talking about story. What is it? How does it apply to our lives? The fact is, everyone has a story. As a writer, this topic falls right into my wheelhouse. I love coming up with a story premise, building a plot, adding page-turning conflict and creating interesting characters who keep readers turning to the very last page. But as we’ve been discussing story, it’s clear that this is more than just about mechanics. So how does it affect our daily lives?

Let’s look at some favorite themes in books; love, second chances, reunions, forgiveness, redemption, to name a few. Why are they so popular? Because these themes relate to real life. And all of these themes can be found in the Bible. There is great wisdom, insight, instruction and advice in the Word. Along with some compelling stories. Jesus even used parables, stories, to teach a spiritual principles.

So the question is, do you tell your stories to others? Do you talk abut the things that have happened to you and relate it to Jesus? The depths of despair or the moments of supreme joy? How your life changed when you accepted Jesus as your Savior and what your walk looks like now? Has He taken you from a circumstance where you saw no hope and instead through His grace, turned it around to His glorious light? As many people as there are in the world, that’s how many stories there are. And wouldn’t it be wonderful if Jesus was in the middle of each one?

Conversely, do you listen to people when they share their stories with you? Do you listen with your spirit? It’s surprising how often we can overlook the surface story, but everything changes once you discover what makes a person tick and why. What kind of world would we live in if we truly listened to those with hurting hearts and broken spirits?

Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. Col 3:16

Telling a story is a way to talk to people about Jesus. We don’t have to thump people over the head if we simply tell folks what Jesus has done in our lives. Opening up a conversation and being honest about who God is in your life and sharing the amazing things He’s done for you is a beautiful way to show others who God is, His nature and how much He loves us. It’s an interesting idea that we can take our story and use it to further the kingdom of God.

So, are you willing to tell your story so that others might see Jesus?

Tara Randel is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author of sixteen novels. Family values, a bit of mystery and, of course, love and romance, are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Look for her Harlequin Heartwarming romance, HIS ONE AND ONLY BRIDE, available now. Visit Tara at www.tararandel.com. Like her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TaraRandelBooks. Sign up for Tara’s Newsletter and receive a link to download a free digital book.