All throughout scripture we not only read about the testimonies of those who came before us who were witnesses to God, but we are also called to share our own testimonies. I, and hopefully you too, am drawn to hearing other people’s testimonies. I find myself searching them up on YouTube or if I happen to scroll by a caption where someone shares their testimony on an Instagram post, I will stop, read, and be in awe.
It is incredibly inspiring to see God’s work happening in the lives of those who testify—and share those testimonies. It makes me eager to share my testimonies so that I can share how God has shown me His love, how He has answered my prayers, and shown me mercy, not to boast but instead with the hope that others experience God’s goodness too.
I was interested in writing about this topic after reading the story of the Samaritan woman from the Gospel of John. We mostly remember this story for two reasons. The first reason is that the Samaritan woman felt unworthy and questioned why Jesus, a Jew, would be talking to her, let alone asking her for something. The second being that Jesus addressed the sins that she has committed, particularly the fact that she has had multiple husbands. There is, however, something else in this story that I had never truly seen until recently.
After this encounter with Jesus, the Samaritan woman leaves and goes to testify what she just experienced.
“So the woman left her waterpot, and went into the city and said to the men, “Come, see a man who told me all the things that I have done; this is not the Christ, is it?” They went out of the city, and were coming to Him” (John 4:28-30, emphasis mine).
And again,
“From that city many of the Samaritans believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all the things that I have done” (John 4:39, emphasis mine)
What strikes me the most, however, is not the fact that she testified and brought people to Jesus (although this is exciting and not meant to be brushed off), but I am struck by what the other Samaritan people say to the Samaritan woman about her testimony once they sit and listen to Jesus.
“So when the Samaritans came to Jesus, they were asking Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. Many more believed because of His word; and they were saying to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves and know that this One is indeed the Savior of the world” (John 4:40-42, emphasis mine).
At first, I felt like they were saying “we do not need your testimony anymore,” almost as if they were brushing her off, but when I read it again, especially where the Samaritan people say that her testimony is “no longer because of what you said that we believe,” meaning that at one point her testimony was the reason why they now believe and why they have been able to hear Jesus for themselves, but it is no longer the reason. Put simply, her testimony did its job and now Jesus will do (and did) the rest.
There have been many moments when I have felt drawn to share my testimony, and I do, however, I know that sometimes despite sharing that testimony, we may feel like it does not have life changing effects. In the case of the Samaritan woman, she could see that those she shared her testimony with went out of the city and came to Jesus. For us sharing our testimony, we may not see such a visible response. However, the response that the Samaritan people gave her (John 4:42) gives me confidence in knowing that a testimony the size of a mustard seed can also move people to Jesus, not only because of the testimony itself but because of the one we testify for.
No testimony of God’s goodness is too small. If it does feel “small” to the point where you do not know if there will be any change, remember that your testimony can be a door for Jesus to take care of the rest.
Nataly, I love this post. Powerful and encouraging. Sometimes short testimonies are the ones that stick with me the most. This reminds me just a few words received at the right time can be life changing. Thank you for sharing what the Lord laid on your heart!
Nataly, your article was such a blessing!
Such a beautiful reminder of the importance of sharing the things that Jesus has touched in our lives.
We all impact the lives of those around us and, by telling others of the truth that he knows … and cares for those very details of our lives, brings hope to others! It opens the opportunity for his hand to reach out to touch many others .
He truly desires to have a personal relationship with each one of his followers!
His touch changes every thing!!
🌿 Great article!