But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. – Acts 20:24
The first time I came to Portland camp meeting was in 1977. My mother called me during my trip and said, “Be sure to get your testimony in.” That, however, can be difficult at Portland camp meeting. Not only did I have anxiety about speaking in front of so many people, but I knew I would have to be aggressive since there was not usually enough time for everyone to testify who wanted to.
During a testimony service, my heart was pounding like it was going to beat out of my chest. When I finally decided to stand up, so did another brother at the same time. I do not know who he was, probably because I had my eyes closed, but I came up talking loud and fast, so he sat down. It is comical to remember how nervous I was back then, but I realize now it was all part of growing in grace. After doing it for a while, testifying is not so scary anymore. More important than any fear of failure is the opportunity to tell others about God in a compelling way.
Our testimonies are powerful. We might get so nervous that we shake and sweat, but if all we say is “Thank God that I am saved,” that is powerful! Jesus is the only One who can save, and that is our testimony. The devil wants to keep all of us from sharing the miracles God has done for us because he knows how effective that witness is. He tries to tell us we will mess up if we speak out for God, that no one will understand what we are trying to say, and we will look foolish. But we cannot allow the devil to keep us quiet. Being nervous is okay, and even messing up some of our wording is okay. God’s grace is greater than our human imperfections. We cannot let anything stand in the way of our ministry, which we have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify of the Gospel of the grace of God.
When we choose to set aside our fear and share something for the honor and glory of God, we will be amazed by what He puts in our hearts to say. God will certainly bless us for what we offer to Him!