Leading others is a tremendous opportunity to make a difference in their lives. As a sponsor, mentor, accountability partner, Life Recovery Group leader, or in any other capacity, a leader must ensure everyone feels connected and accepted. One of the best ways a leader can prepare to lead well is by being ready to tell their story.
Everyone has a story to tell. Every person has gone through stages in their faith and struggled with relationships and life. Even leaders have struggles. There might be a leader who has recovered from addiction. They may have struggled with their emotions and achieved freedom with the help of God and others. After navigating difficult relationships, perhaps a leader has grown in confidence rather than become codependent. A leader—no matter their past—can offer inspiration and assistance to others who are struggling.
But a person who wants to help others through the Life Recovery process needs to know their story and be prepared to share it. The people coming to a Life Recovery Group do not want to feel like they are the only ones who struggle. And they may have lost all hope. There is power in connecting with another struggler and seeing the hope that they have.
1 Peter 3:15 says, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
Start by writing a testimony. Even though everyone has a unique story, and there’s technically no wrong way to tell it, it’s essential to write it out.
Here’s a suggested outline to help:
- Your early years
- The struggles you have experienced in your life
- When you came to know Christ as your Savior
- How Jesus has helped you with your life struggles
After a leader writes their testimony, they should practice reading it to someone. They may also want to ask them for suggestions on improving it. Ask for help with any unclear areas and to make sure that it connects with the listener. Prepare the final draft by creating an outline on a 3 x 5 card. And limit the story to five to ten minutes.
Everybody likes hearing an inspiring story — especially about hope and transformation. And if a Life Recovery Group leader shares their recovery story, it will give hope to those who hear it. This will let them know they aren’t the only ones struggling.
For more help in starting a Life Recovery Group, click here.
By Kimberlee Bousman