I shared about the power of your story on Sunday (from John 4), and told you I’d give you a framework you can use to write out your story to help you share it quickly (or over an extended conversation) to INVITE someone to consider Jesus.

INVITATIONS IMPACT LIVES. We share and INVITE because of the value of people! Jesus said: “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” Matthew 16:26 NLT

Here’s the framework:

Part 1 – What was your life like before you chose to trust and follow Jesus? Don’t spend much time here; just hit the highlights. (my story from Sunday – I was wild, rebellious, immoral and selfish – I had no peace, purpose or direction in my life).

Part 2 – How did you realize your need for Jesus? Who was involved or where were you? What was the process that took place? (my story from Sunday – A young lady I trusted kept telling me “God has something better for you“. Eventually I decided to check it out by going to a church where I heard the truth about my need for Jesus).

Part 3 – What did you do? Like Amberlie Patton said in her video “I prayed and asked Jesus into my life.” (my story from Sunday – I realize my need for Jesus and made a willful choice to trust and follow Him as Lord and Savior).

Part 4 – What has your life been like since you chose to trust Jesus as Lord and Savior? Amberlie said she wasn’t really a bad person, but her life is so much better now and she’s a better person. (my story from Sunday – Jesus forgave the guilt I had because of my sin – He freed me from my shame and gave me purpose, peace and hope. It was the best decision of my life!).

Always spend more time on Part 4 than you do on Part 1. Sometimes I tell people how my relationship with Jesus has impacted all my relationships in a more positive way, and while I still make plenty of mistakes – I’m no longer the self-centered selfish person I once was, but genuinely care about others. As Andy Stanley has said: “Following Jesus makes life better and make me better at life.”

The one verse I’ve used for years in connection with my story is Romans 6:23. The link that follows is a simple explanation of how to use Romans 6:23 in sharing with someone. It’s only 90 seconds long so I hope you’ll check it out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHnSIHIg4XI