The first time I ever gave a testimony was at a Christian Science college organization meeting. I was a rather eager, wide-eyed freshman, totally new to the experience of giving testimonies, and without any preconceptions about how to do it. So when the testimony period began, I simply related a small and, to me, meaningful experience in which God had helped me.
I especially remember that meeting because it was my first step in publicly expressing gratitude. The response of others afterward was warm, welcoming, encouraging, accepting. I don't recall whether my vocabulary was well chosen, my grammar perfect, or my metaphysical explanation very profound. I felt happy doing what I sensed was right to do and continued to feel that way.
One of the most important lessons I have learned about testimonies, however, has nothing to do with giving them. It has to do with being on the receiving end. Sometimes the listener may need specific Christianization of thought.
