"They defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony; for they did not love their lives but laid them down for him." Revelation 12:11

You've probably heard the saying, "Let your test become your testimony." What exactly does that mean, though? And why is it important? Today, I'm going to share with you powerful ways to turn your greatest struggles into a profound story that will become your fiercest defense.

Everybody likes a great testimony. We feel drawn to those with whom we can relate. More so, we are unexplainably captivated by stories that inspire us through testaments of redemption, recovery, and restoration. Regardless of any doubt, you may have, YOU have a powerful story to tell. The surprising news, though, is that your story – your testimony – is also your greatest weapon to help you overcome struggles. By the unmatched power of Christ, through your spoken word, you gain victorious ground. Isn't that amazing? Friends, the more you speak, the more you reap!

If that sparks excitement in you and you feel that familiar stir telling you, it's true, but you simply don't know how to start, begin by reflecting on consistent, repeated struggles in your life. What are those obstacles that threaten to tangle you up again and again? What do you find yourself praying about habitually? Write those thoughts down. Begin to recognize them and where they come from. How had God faithfully shown up during them over and over again? Dedicate them to the Lord rather than trying to hide them. Guess what! He already knows! Make them an offering and ask God to use you.

Not every struggle is a fall of the flesh.

We tend to be uber hard on ourselves, don't we? When we struggle, we indulge thoughts like, "Why am I so weak?" or "Why can't I just have more self-control?" Ladies, I'd like to encourage you by letting you in on a heavenly little secret! Not every struggle is a fall of the flesh. Sometimes they propel us into our God-given purpose. Occasionally, God will take our greatest weakness and use it to demonstrate His strength through us! Sometimes our struggle remains to keep us dependent upon Him. Other times we need it to stay compassionate and tenderhearted. If you continue to struggle, don't give way to the Voice of Shame. Remind yourself that struggle is not the same as defeat and that God is using your testimony for His glory and strengthening you.

Don't wait. Start speaking now.

"Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done. Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds." Psalm 105:1-2

There is nothing more powerful in the pursuit of renewing our mind than testifying of God's good, gracious, tender will! The more you speak, the more you reap. The more you tell of the Joy-Maker, the more joy you gain. The more you promote the Prince of Peace, the more peace you revel in. The more you tell the whole world of the good He has done, the more good you notice. The more you testify of the Lord, the more you experience Him. Don't wait to tell of the work He does in you until you reach some perceived perfect outcome! If you wait until you get to that desired weight, have the "perfect" words, or settle into the most comfortable opportunities, you'll not only miss the precious possibility to give God glory, but you also forfeit a dose of strength for yourself. Make sure your testimony is about HIM, not you!!! When we wait until we feel ready, we're taking the glory and shining the spotlight on our efforts. Don't wait. Start sharing with others the miracles the Lord has done in you!

Someone needs your story today!