The Backstory

“But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel.” (Philippians 1:12)

Writers use backstory to reveal pertinent information about the characters portrayed in their stories. These backstories reveal how the people became who they are and why they act and think the way they do. The backstory is sometimes held for later in the narrative for effectiveness.

Paul understood God’s sovereignty over his life’s story; even his unfair arrest would help spread the good news that Jesus saves. The events of your life create your backstory, and narrative is added daily to your story even if it isn’t posted in a journal, book, or on social media. Your backstory tells how you became who you are and why you act and think the way you do. Someone needs to know your story; they need to hear of your struggles. When God’s Spirit nudges you to share with someone an unpleasant event from your past—something you’re not proud of, or unfair, or painful; something that may have happened just yesterday—you may be their “ray of hope.” That careworn person needs to hear the good news of how you overcame life's setbacks by God’s power, grace, and love, and the same help is available for them.

Some people think they aren’t worthy of asking God for anything, that He could never forgive or love them. But you are living proof that God can break chains of bondage. They need to hear the good news that Jesus saves everyone who calls on and receives Him as Savior and Lord. God knows when your backstory will be most effective; as He speaks to your heart, obediently follow His leading and share your story with others.