The Power of Testimony

The other day, I was reading in the book of John, and the word “testimony” just kept jumping out at me in a way that wasn’t given to me before.

I’ve written previously about the Samaritan woman at the well; how Jesus gave her the living water, and how she went into town and told them about Jesus. John 4:39 says, “Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, ‘He told me everything I ever did.’” What’s so powerful about this statement is that she was an outcast – a woman so scorned from society that she had to draw water at the hottest time of day. She wasn’t someone of importance by society’s standards, yet many from that town believed in her testimony. Why? Because sometimes God uses the ordinary to reveal his extraordinary power.

Jesus said the “works that the Father has given me to finish – the very works I am doing – testify that the Father has sent me” (John 5:36). If we truly know God, our lives should be a testament to our relationship with God. The way we live our lives, and the way we treat others should be a light to unbelievers. Ephesians 5:8 says to “live as children of light.”

In Acts 4, Peter and John had to account for healing a lame man and testified that it was through Jesus they were able to perform this miracle. Acts 4:13 says, “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished, and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” Again, we see the ordinary theme. The apostles went on to heal many of various infirmities and even through persecution, testified of the goodness of Jesus.

Sharing our testimonies is vital to encourage both believers and non-believers. Testimony is a form of praise and honor to Christ; giving him glory for all he has done for us. Psalm 66:16 says, “Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will tell you what he did for me.”

For me, God has healed my body not once, but twice. He’s healed my mind from anxiety and depression. He’s been so good to me. Don’t be afraid to share your story with others. There is power in your testimony. You never know when your story will draw an unbeliever to Christ or encourage the believer who is going through a similar situation as you.  

Psalm 105:1 “Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done.”