Family Talk: Testimonies

TO START: We are pausing from our regular teaching rhythm to do something we like to call a Family Talk.  Just like any family, we sometimes need to slow down and talk to remember something that’s important to hold close to our hearts and minds. We do this from time to time to focus on an internal topic that helps shape, strengthen and clarify our mission and vision as RRCOC. Conversations where we make space together so that we don’t allow the world to have a say on what’s forming us over and against what God’s doing. And our  focus this week is “Testimonies”... What are testimonies? Why are testimonies important? And how do we receive testimony in light of what God desires for us as individuals and as a collective body?

TO READ: Revelation 12:10-12

TO DISCUSS:

(1.) When you think about your life today, what story—God’s story or the world’s story—feels like it’s shaping your decisions, emotions, or identity the most?

(2.) How can naming our testimonies help realign us with God’s story instead of the world’s?

(3.) Can you think of a moment when someone’s faith story strengthened you or changed your perspective?

(4.) Where have you seen God at work recently—in struggle, victory, healing, waiting, transformation, or endurance?

TO CLOSE/TO PRAY: 

Consider closing with this prayer over the group: 

Father, thank You for meeting us today and reminding us of the power of testimony.

Jesus, by Your blood we overcome, and by our stories we participate in the redeeming, conquering and restoring realities of your blood dripping into our lives. 

Holy Spirit, help us to listen well, share boldly, and receive each other’s testimonies with gratitude and conviction. Shape us into a family formed by Your truth and not the world’s voices.

May every story we tell reveal Your faithfulness and draw us closer to You and to one another.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.