Often Christian teens are asked to put together their testimony for presentation in the youth group, in front of the congregation, or in witnessing and evangelistic settings. Here are some tips for putting together a great testimony:
Understand You Have a Testimony to Give
Many Christian teens believe that they have no testimony to give, because they haven't experienced enough in the world or been bad enough. Most of the time this belief comes from only hearing testimonies of people who have come out of drug use, sex, lust, and other sins. It may seem to many Christian teens that only "bad" people can have good testimonies, but in fact, EVERY Christian teen has something to share. How about the time you resisted temptation? What about the most amazing experience you've had in church? Have you ever given someone advice? Why are you a Christian? Putting together your testimony begins with understanding you have one.
What Are You Going to Talk About?
Now that you know you have a testimony, try to think about what you want to say. Many Christian teens give a testimony about how they found their faith. They tell mini-biographies. Others talk about how they faced an obstacle and overcame it. At times you will be asked to give a testimony about something specific you have faced, but more often than not you will be giving a testimony about why you hold to your Christian beliefs.
How Are You Going to Say It?
Just like you should understand your setting to determine your topic, you should also be aware of your audience so you use the right words. If you are talking to a group of new Christians or non-believers, you may want to avoid any Church-speak. Using terms that only regular churchgoers will understand can create a disconnect with your audience.
Write It Out
The best way to develop your testimony is to write it down. Some Christian teens find it best to write freely at first and then narrow down and organize ideas. Others create an outline and put together their testimony in order of what they want to say. No matter how you tackle putting together your testimony, in then end make sure it comes from the heart.
Practice Out Loud
Just writing down your testimony may not be enough. While you may post your testimony to message boards or put it in a diary, you will more likely be asked to present your testimony out loud. Read what you have written on your paper. Practice saying it to a friend, leader, or pastor. The more you say your testimony, the easier it will get.
