How to share your faith story: A step-by-step guide

4-minute read
*Adapted from a Cru Compass lesson 

Why share your faith story?

Sharing the story of your faith journey is powerful. Why? Because your story can be the spark that ignites someone else’s journey with Jesus. And putting your experiences into words can also help you better understand your own faith.

Sharing your faith story is about connecting with others and showing them how faith can change lives. So let’s get started on understanding how to prepare and share your story.

Reflect on your faith journey
First, jot down some key moments of your faith journey. Ask yourself:

• When did I first encounter God?
• What challenges have I faced that strengthened my faith?
• How has my relationship with Jesus changed over time?
• What’s the biggest lesson God has taught me?

Don’t worry about making it perfect — just get your thoughts flowing.

Find your story’s themes
Now look at what you’ve written. Do you see any patterns? Maybe you’ve learned a lot about trust, or forgiveness keeps popping up. Pick 2-3 main themes that really stand out to you. These will be the heart of your story.

For example, your themes might be:

• From doubt to faith.
• Finding purpose through serving others.
• Experiencing God’s love in tough times.

   

Putting your story together
Now it’s time to structure your story. Here’s a simple framework to follow:

• Before: What was your life like before your faith journey began? You want to paint a picture of what your life was like before you came to Christ. But don’t dwell on how bad you used to be or revel in past sin.
  

• Turning Point: What happened that changed things for you? This section is how you came to Christ. Make sure you speak in such a way that the person you are talking with, and anyone who overhears you, can understand how you became a Christian and how they can become a Christian too.
  

• After: Share some of the changes that Christ has made in your life as they relate to your theme. Emphasize the changes in your character, attitude and perspective, not just the mere changes in behavior. And be realistic. We still struggle as Christians. Life is far from perfect, isn’t it? But what makes it different for you now? How has your life and perspective changed since then? This is an educational aspect to your story, so that even if your listener is not interested right now, they’ll be able to make a decision down the road to follow Christ because you’ve equipped them with the right information.
  

• Invitation: Close it out with a summary statement that ties your story together according to your theme. You could close with a verse, but don’t just throw one in to sound spiritual. Use one if it’s meaningful and relates to the story you’ve just told. Then finish it with an invitation. What would you say to encourage others on their own journey of faith?

Remember, your story doesn’t have to be dramatic to be powerful. God works in all kinds of ways!

Make your story come alive
Now, let’s make your story shine. Here are some tips:

• Be real: Don’t sugarcoat things. People connect with honesty.
• Show, don’t tell: Instead of saying, “I was scared,” try, “My hands were shaking as I opened the Bible.”
• Keep it simple: Avoid churchy words that might confuse people, like “sanctification.”
• Focus on feelings: How did you feel during key moments? Help people connect emotionally with your story.
• Be brief: Aim to share your story in 3-5 minutes.

   

Share your story
You’ve got your story — now what? Here are some ways to share it:

• One-on-one: Share over coffee with a friend who’s curious about faith.
• Small groups: Offer to share during a Bible study or prayer group.
• Social media: Post a short text-based version or create a video for your followers.
• Church events: Ask if you can share during a testimony time.
• Write it down: Start a blog or contribute to your church newsletter.

   

Get feedback and keep growing
Sharing your story is just the beginning. To grow in skill and effectiveness, ask trusted friends or mentors for feedback. They might help you see parts of your story you hadn’t noticed before.

Some questions to ask:

• Was anything in my story confusing or unclear?
• What part resonated with you the most?
• Is there anything you’d like to hear more about?

Use this feedback to refine your story. The more you share your story with others, the more comfortable you’ll become.

Your story matters
Remember, your faith story is unique and valuable. It’s a testament to God’s work in your life, and it has the power to inspire and encourage others. So take a deep breath, trust in God’s guidance, and share your story with someone.

Want to be prepared to share the gospel more effectively if someone is interested after hearing your story? Download the GodTools app today and explore resources that can help you share your faith easily and confidently.