Salvation belongs to the Lord; your blessing be on your people!1
David hid in a cave of Adullam. And when his brothers and all his father’s house heard it, they went down there to him. And everyone who was in distress, in debt, and bitter in soul, gathered to him—about 400 men. And he became commander over them. To Abiathar, he said, “Stay with me; do not be afraid, for he who seeks my life seeks your life. With me you shall be in safekeeping.”2 It was said of Paul, “He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” And they glorified God because of Paul.3 Paul was a zealous apostle. Most of the Epistles in the bible that we presently benefit from were written by him. Notably, every book ended with an array of disciple’s names whom he cared for. Both David and Paul had hearts that felt for those hurting. How does one develop such a character trait?
The word of your testimony is powerful. It is a personal, irrefutable account of what Jesus has done for you and how He has changed your life.4
How To Give Your Testimony
1. Briefly describe your life before Christ.
David was the youngest son of Jesse;5 he was a shepherd boy—not considered capable to lead by his own father6 and despised by his brothers7 Paul was zealous, persecuting the church; his zeal was not based on knowledge.8
2. Carefully explain how you came to the point of submitting your life to Christ.
David was anointed king then moved in the might of the Spirit.9 With his bare hands he killed a lion and a bear while shepherding sheep. He had courage to face Goliath.10 Paul had a personal encounter with Jesus and was blinded for 3 days.11 He was appointed as an apostle,12 given revelations about the mystery of salvation by grace through Jesus Christ.13
3. Joyfully describe yourself since Jesus became LORD. Take more time to explain how your life has changed since you surrendered to Christ.
David went from shepherd to ruler. With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.14 He was not free from trouble—tempted and falling for Bathsheba,15 running from Absalom,16 and more—yet David trusted God and thrived. David lived to rule Israel as king for 40 years. Then died at a good age, full of days, riches, and honor. And Solomon his son reigned in his place.17 Paul acknowledged that he has been crucified with Christ. No longer he that lives, but Christ in him. And the life he lived he lived by faith in the Son of God, who loved him and gave himself for him.18
Notes:
1. Psalm 3:8
2. 1 Samuel 22:1-2, 23
3. Galatians 1:23-24
4. Steve Murrell, One-2-One, Personal Discipleship Guide, #7 Discipleship, p38
5. 1 Samuel 17:12-14
6. 1 Samuel 16:1-11
7. 1 Samuel 17:28-29
8. Philippians 3:6; Romans 10:1-4
9. 1 Samuel 16:11-13
10. 1 Samuel 17:34-37
11. Acts 9:3-9
12. Galatians 1:1
13. 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
14. Psalm 78:72
15. 2 Samuel 11-12
16. 2 Samuel 15
17. 1 Chronicles 29:26-28
18. Galatians 2:20
