I'll never forget the first time I mustered up the courage to tell someone that the Lord had delivered me from eating disorders. Saying it aloud felt "risky" somehow, but the moment I spoke of His power, there was a strengthening that left me forever changed. My hesitation grew into a hunger. I began to understand in a new way the promise that we overcome our struggles and sin by the powerful sacrifice of Jesus and the word of our testimony. The more we tell of how Christ frees us, the more profound our freedom becomes. How incredible that as we help lead others to release from captivity, we gain strength and freedom ourselves.

We as believers understand that one of our greatest privileges is to bring God glory, less of us, more of Him! Nothing is more powerful than realizing that our past struggles are not lost time but propel us into our God-given purpose. God will often take our greatest weakness and use it to demonstrate His strength through us!

I remember feeling as though I needed to be without compromise, temptation, or struggle from my old ways before I could effectively speak into the lives of others. That's a strategic lie from the Enemy. If it sounds familiar, hear these words. Don't wait. Start speaking now of what the Lord has done for you. 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. Remember that struggle is different from defeat. God is using your testimony for His glory and strengthening you through it.

As you share your story, you will experience how powerfully your mind is renewed when testifying of God's good and gracious will! The more you speak, the more you reap. The more you tell of the Joy-Maker, the more joy multiplies. The more you promote the Prince of Peace, the more peace you revel in. The more you tell the world His goodness, the more good you notice in the world. 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! Suppose you wait until you get to that desired weight, have the "perfect" words, or settle into the most comfortable opportunities. In that case, you'll not only miss the precious possibility of giving God glory but also forfeit a dose of strength for yourself. Make sure your testimony is about HIM, not you!!! We take the glory and shine the spotlight on our efforts when we wait until we feel ready.

Don't wait. Start sharing with others the miracles the Lord has done in you! You have a powerful kingdom purpose. "Let me tell you what Jesus did" may be the few simple words someone needs to hear today to be set free. Someone out there needs your story. Will you have the courage to tell it?

Lord Jesus, we praise you. We are all different, but we have the same maker. We have unique stories, but the same Divine author Who miraculously writes testimonies of transformation, answered prayers, and changed outlooks. Each of us has countless stories to tell of your goodness. Today will you give us the courage to share them for your precious names' sake. Jesus, perfect your ways in us. All you ask is that we are willing and available. Please make us brave and use us to change the lives of others and fulfill our call to help set captives free. Jesus, it is to and through your mighty name we pray. Amen.