The Power of Stories
- Posted by Steve K. on May 30th, 2007 filed in Mission(s), Writing
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The New York Times reports that scientists are now confirming the power of narrative stories to give meaning to our lives. As Phil Cooke explains, “This report is heavy stuff, but it does confirm that narrative stories help make us who we are. That’s why I’ve always advocated for storytelling. If you’re in business, tell stories through your presentations and reports. If you’re a pastor, tell more stories in the pulpit. If you’re a filmmaker, understand the power of dramatic structure. Stories connect with people in a way nothing else can.”
I would add, if you’re a missionary, understand that it’s just as important to tell your story (of what God is doing in your life), as it is to hear the story of God’s work through your ministry. It’s wonderful to hear reports of other lives that are changed, but your life (as someone God is working through) is also being changed and transformed (often by those same experiences)—and God can be (and should be) glorified through your story, as well.
I’ve been told that Tell Me a Story: The Life-Shaping Power of Our Stories by Daniel Taylor is an excellent book. I haven’t read it yet, but I thought I’d throw it out here in case anyone who has read it cared to comment on it.
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