Terrified

[Picture.Of.Obedience]

I am giving my testimony at church on the 27th of June. I am terrified. I dont like speaking in front of people. Even a few people i have a hard time talking in front of, and this will be a whole church. Any words of encouragement or advice would be great.Help me to calm my nerves.

~Stacy

 

[rainbowprism]

Ok, Stacy...the best thing to remember this isn't really about you, this is about GOD and what He has done through you. God gets the glory...so it might be helpful to think that you're talking about someone else rather than yourself. You know what I mean? Just take a deep breath and pray that God will give you the right words, confidence and courage. You'll do great!

 

[Blessed-one]

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7

 

[Caelum]

First of all, congratulations; that is way awesome and something I am far prepared to do. I have yet to tell any one person my testimony in detail, let alone an entire church. Indeed I can understand how it might be nervewrecking...but for me, I know that each time I tell people about Christianity, and share the message, it becomes easier and easier and more empowering. Imagine how great you are going to feel once it's all done and said, I believe it will bring you closer to god tenfold. You will be relieved and I assure you that it will seem as if the weight of the world was removed from your shoulders. I pray for the day I have that type of courage

 

[Alternate Carpark]

Before you give it at church, Discuss the event with God. Talk with Him about what you want to share, let Him give you ideas and feedback.
Share with people how knowing God/being saved has impacted YOUR life personally.
And don't worry about thinking your conversion is not "exciting"., because everytime someone comes to the Lord, the angels start praising God.

Break the testimony up into chunks or topics, depending on what you see as important. IE
How long you have been saved.
Your life before being saved.
How you felt when you were saved or after ( even if you felt nothing )
Plans for the future , as in your relationship with God.
Write out the topics on cards, refer to them as you speak.
They're your words, regardless if you speak with or without cards to help you.
Practice speaking it at home before the event. God loves watching His children, especially practicing to give their testimony.


I mean you could get up and say..

" I never believed in God till like just the other day.
Now I do and he's pretty amazing from what I know about Him thus far.
I know He loves me passionately and that is so cool.
I look forward to really getting to know Him.
Thanks."

And if that doesn't get people standing up and praising God, then shame on them

 

[Alternate Carpark]

Oh plus, when you are giving your testimony and you may feel like everyone can see how terrified you are( if you still feel that way on the day) Don't fret.

From their point of view, you look relaxed and confident, I still suffer from "stage fright" and they always tell me I looked relaxed and calm.

It's just internal over exaggeration.
Plus if it helps you calm down a bit, state to everyone that you are bit nervous and apologise for any arkwardness on your part, then before you begin hand out lollies to everyone. Everyone loves lollies.

 

[TheMainException]

Oh man, now that the date is passed, can you give me some advice too? I've got to talk to my youth group about some issues that God has layed on my heart.