It may sound like a cliche, but there really is no testimony without a test.
When you hear the call to follow Jesus, it’s a call to give up certain things in order to gain others, many of which will not be realized in this life, but in the life to come.
Following Jesus requires faith. Giving up what seems best to me will test whether or not I believe that Jesus is right. And there are many tests that all believers face, both outward and inward, that will be evidence of what is truly believed.
My testimony is made up of the results of my testing. Every aspect of the way that you behave because of the influence of Jesus is a part of your testimony.
This is not confined to the things that you do not do. It also includes the things that you choose to do because of Jesus.
For instance, I no longer get drunk. Why? It’s because of Jesus that I no longer get drunk. But if my testimony was only made up of the things I don’t do, that’s not something that sounds attractive to others.
However, I also go to Honduras every summer. Why? It’s because of Jesus that I choose to go to Honduras. I feel uniquely called to that particular ministry.
My test is not your test, even if we share many similarities. You may not struggle with the temptation to drink to excess, but I do, so giving that up is a part of my testimony. You may not feel called to go to Honduras. That’s fine. I am, so it’s a part of my testimony.
But make no mistake, you will face temptations unique to you and will also be called to participate in ministry that is unique to you. If you don’t know exactly what that is, to you, it’s not unusual for God to lead you through things that are not for you in a journey of discovering what it is He’s calling you to.
Don’t know where to start? Try something! When you try to follow, God will help you figure things out as you go. He appreciates your efforts when your efforts are by faith.
Much love!
Wes (918) 607-8489 or huskerwes1@gmail.com
