“after hearing about Jesus, she came up in the crowd behind Him and touched His cloak.” Mark 5:27
We encounter desperate people regularly but seldom know it. They often hide their loneliness, fear, or shame behind a smile or even humor. Desperate people need the hope of Jesus Christ, which brings us to an important principle. Never underestimate the power of your testimony.
Scripture doesn’t tell us what the sick woman in Mark 5 actually heard about Jesus or how she heard it. She obviously learned about His ability to miraculously heal. Surely people talked about Jesus healing leprosy, causing the blind to see, and making the lame to walk. Or maybe she heard the testimony of Peter’s mother-in-law, who was delivered of a demon. Whatever this woman heard about Jesus, it filled her with hope.
We’re told in 1 Peter 3:15 to always be ready to, “give an account for the hope that is in you.” This doesn’t require a degree in theology; only a changed life and a willing heart. It’s our privilege, as Christ’s followers, to talk about how He works in our lives. Talking about Jesus should be as natural as breathing.
So, how has Jesus changed your life; not only through salvation but also by living daily in His power? When was the last time you intentionally told someone else about the love, hope, and purpose found in Jesus Christ? When we share our own story, it can be just the hope someone needs to believe that Jesus is their answer, too.
Sharing a testimony has unintentional effects as well. We never know who is within earshot of our conversations. A co-worker might overhear you rejoicing over answered prayer with another believer. Or while having lunch with a friend, a stranger might hear how Jesus restored your struggling marriage.
So, don’t underestimate the power of your testimony. If God is prompting you to share some part of your story, then do it! Like the woman in Mark 5:27, that neighbor or co-worker is in desperate need of the hope that comes from,“hearing about Jesus.” Trust God to use your testimony to bring Him glory and to change someone else’s story.