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Tuesday, April 29, 2025

April 29 -- "Before and After: Your Story"



Today’s Reading: Luke 8:26-56

Your personal salvation story is better than any other story you could ever tell, and here’s why: It is ultimately a story about Jesus. It’s the one story you can tell where God takes center stage. It reveals His mercy, His love, His power, and His ability to transform a life – your life. That’s what sets it apart from just a “good story”—it’s a God story. Your favorite travel memory or a funny story from high school might get a few laughs or nods—but your salvation story can impact someone’s eternity.

Consider the dramatic account of the demon-possessed man in Luke 8. For years, darkness gripped him, until Jesus came and set him free. Afterward, the man, overcome with gratitude, pleaded to follow Him. Jesus, however, had another plan. Instead of traveling with the disciples, Jesus gave him a mission: “Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.” In other words—go and share your story.

This man wasn’t a trained teacher or preacher. He hadn’t studied theology or prepared eloquent speeches. He simply shared his encounter with Jesus. And that’s where it starts for all of us. The Gospel is the unchanging good news—who Jesus is, what He has done, and the salvation He offers. But your personal story makes it tangible. It brings the truth down to “where the rubber meets the road.” It’s the evidence of grace in action, showing others how Jesus transforms lives—not just in ancient times, but here and now.

Perhaps you think your story isn’t extraordinary or dramatic enough. But whether Jesus rescued you from rebellion, legalism, addiction, depression, despair, or doubt—your transformation is a miracle worth sharing. Your testimony serves as a bridge, connecting others to the hope found in Christ. It’s your “before and after” of redemption. So don’t hesitate. Tell your story faithfully, and leave the results to God. He’s the One who saves, but He uses your voice to stir hearts and open eyes. Keep sharing—you never know who’s listening.

Your story puts God’s power on display. When people see the “before and after,” it brings hope that change is possible. Just like in Luke 8, when the man told his story, people were astonished. They knew who he used to be, and now they saw who he’d become. “Wow, I can’t believe it’s really you!”

Your salvation story is better than any other story because it carries the hope of the Gospel, the evidence of God’s grace, and the invitation to eternal life—all wrapped up in the living proof of you! Best of all, it is really easy to share—simply describe the before, how, and after of your salvation story. BEFORE: “This is who I was...” HOW: “This is how I met Jesus...” AFTER: “This is how Jesus is changing me...” The Holy Spirit will do the rest!

May the Lord strengthen you to share with joy all He has done in your life. May your words reflect His grace, leading others to the truth of the Gospel. 

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