Elevator stories


You may tell a tale that takes up residence in someone’s soul, becomes their blood and self and purpose. That tale will move them and drive them and who knows what they might do because of it, because of you. That is your role, your gift.
--Erin Morgenstern


Every successful businessperson has at least one “elevator speech” they carry in their mind, that thirty-second speech that sums up who they are or what their aspirations of success are.

As followers of the Christ, we should also have a faith story to offer, for those occasions when someone asks: Why should I believe there’s a “Greater Power”? Where have you seen it in your life?

Here’s one of mine:

Four years after my first husband died, our wedding anniversary date was especially hard. I don’t know why; it just was. I had a chat with God at one point: God, I know it’s going to be okay, and I am really appreciating the person I am becoming. In fact, if it’s your plan that I am to walk alone for the rest of my life—well, it’ll be hard, but I am becoming strong enough—I can live with that.

Ten days later, Chuck and I had our first date. We laughed; we cried; we hugged at the door. And in that hug, I felt all my pain just wash away. . . . And I knew. And so did Chuck. (I came inside, told the cats and wept.) And God? Well, God just smiled. . . .

What’s your elevator faith story? Scripture is filled with them!


Monday Is there something wonderful happening in your life that reveals God at work? Think about telling it briefly. Genesis 16:11-16

Tuesday God is constantly giving us God’s elevator speech. Look around for God’s presence in unexpected places. Give thanks and share your observations. Ruth 1:15-18

Wednesday Think for a moment: for you, is God’s presence stronger on the good days—or the bad? Today, seek God in the opposite way. John 14:6-7

Thursday Find time today to spend more than thirty seconds with God. Listen more deeply for God’s voice—beyond the elevator doors. Isaiah 40:28-31

Friday How does telling your story make you feel? Are you comfortable telling others of your faith in a Greater Power (by whatever name)? 2 Timothy 1:8-12

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, ask God how your life can be a stronger testimony of God’s work in you. Pray for better words, and the courage to speak them. Nahum 1:15

Sunday As we worship today, set aside all the “junk” that’s been following you around this week. Worship joyfully. Pray twice as you sing. Give thanks. 1 Corinthians 2:6-10

I love to tell the story! ‘Twill be my theme in glory
To tell the old, old story of Jesus and his love. –Alan Jackson

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