“What we have seen and heard, we are proclaiming to you; so that you too may have fellowship with us.” (1 John 1:3) Do you talk to others about the things you see and hear? Many of us have practiced doing that in the form of gossip. The big issue I see with that is that we are telling the wrong story–if it doesn’t involve you it isn’t your story to tell.

Why is it easier to talk about what someone else said or did? What is the hangup when it comes to telling on ourselves? Perhaps it’s an embarrassment, or shame, or fear of how another will respond. The first time I attended the small church I used to belong to, I noticed the members were very loving people who welcomed newcomers regardless of where they came from. I was embarrassed to be pointed out on my first visit but at the dinner, after the service, I was made to feel welcome and I stayed. 

After a year or so the pastor, who was the only one who had asked about my past, asked me to give my testimony at a Sunday evening service. When I stepped up to the podium I announced: “My name is Linda and I am a drug addict.” The congregation laughed. They truly thought it was a joke. They knew the Linda that Father was changing and couldn’t imagine the person I was describing. It was the first time I remember being aware of how much He was rebuilding my reputation–restoration is a beautiful thing.

Don’t be embarrassed to tell your own story. Someone needs to know that the shame in their own life can be covered over. They may look at you as someone who has it all together when the truth is this: “If we claim not to have sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” (1 John 1:8)

You have the power to bring hope into someone’s life just by sharing where you were when Jesus picked you up and carried you to a better place. Something happened after sharing my testimony; many of the members felt compelled to share their unimaginable journey with me.

“If we are walking in the light, as he is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other and the blood of his Son Yeshua purifies us from all sin” (1 John 1:7) Your embarrassment and shame are covered in the past. Leave them there and walk in the light.