It is a profound joy to share with you each month what the Holy Spirit lays on my heart. This is especially true with this month’s newsletter.
THERE IS NOTHING LIKE THE POWER OF STORY.
Much of our conversation with each other is the sharing of facts and details concerning the current events of our lives. When we get together, we discuss the political climate, our favorite sports teams, what’s happening at work, and of course, what the children are doing. There is nothing wrong with this. We are simply sharing life together.
Story is altogether different. When we tell our story, we invite others into our hearts. As we share the major events that have shaped our lives, our painful and joyful circumstances, we draw listeners in and even captivate them with the shared experience of what it means to be a human being. Story also triggers within the listener memories of their own life events, which they share back with the storyteller as common experiences.
Medical science confirms the power of such an intimate relationship. Studies by neuroscientists show that story, the shared human experience, releases oxytocin into our brains. Oxytocin, also known as the love hormone, creates a powerful, intimate connection between the storyteller and the listener. It is as if both storyteller and listener exclaim, “Oh my goodness! They get it! They understand what I have been through.”
My dear friends, never underestimate the power of story! When we tell our story, we reach not only the mind but also the heart. Our story is unique in the world.
OUR STORY HAS THE POWER TO CHANGE LIVES!
I share this with you because, while Jesus’ work on earth is finished, His story is not! After He ascended into heaven to sit down at Father’s right hand, He sent the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. Through the Holy Spirit in us, He still lives His life on this planet and spreads His love and grace throughout this world through our life experiences, through our stories, as we trust Him by faith.
With that glorious thought in mind, the Our Resolute Hope podcast will begin a new series entitled, “The Power of Story.” My friend John Russin, the podcast host, and I will start by sharing our stories of finding life in Jesus. Then we will invite others to join our podcast and share their stories, too. We trust that these will encourage you to share your story of finding life in Him.
Often, we refer to our story as our “testimony.” It is fascinating that the root of that Hebrew word means to “tell again.”
LET’S TELL AGAIN AND AGAIN, AS OFTEN AS WE HAVE OPPORTUNITY, HOW GOD STEPPED INTO OUR EMPTINESS WITH THE FULLNESS OF HIS OWN LIFE.
When we do this, we will connect with others in a mighty way and build a rich, dynamic connection with them. And what a connection it is—the shared life of the living God of the universe!
Please pray that the Holy Spirit would use this podcast series to invite others into the life in Jesus that He longs to bring them.
Thank you for your partnership with us and your prayers for us.
We remain in Him, Who is our resolute hope.
