A Testimony That Glorifies God | Galatians 1:18-24

Every disciple carries a story of how God has worked in their life. Some stories are dramatic, others quiet, yet every testimony has the power to glorify God when it reflects His grace. Paul’s testimony shifts from describing his revelation from Christ to explaining what happened next. His journey is not marked by self-promotion or immediate public influence. Instead, it is marked by obedience, patience, and a steady walk of transformation that others could see and affirm.

This passage reminds us that God does not simply save us for our own benefit. He shapes our lives so that His glory becomes visible through us. The Galatians needed this reminder because they were being influenced by people who sought recognition through their teaching. Paul grounds them again in the truth that the gospel produces genuine transformation, not self-centered promotion. His story encourages believers today to trust that God is at work even in seasons when little seems to be happening on the surface.

Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. (In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie!) Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. They only were hearing it said, He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy. And they glorified God because of me.

(Galatians 1:18-24, ESV)

A life transformed by Christ becomes a testimony that glorifies God.

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Big Idea 1: God Uses Obscure Seasons to Shape Our Testimony

Paul spent three years growing privately before meeting with the apostles. This detail holds significant weight. Many people expect immediate influence after encountering Christ, yet God often works slowly and quietly. Paul’s early years were not marked by public ministry but by growth, learning, and preparation. These years shaped his faith and deepened his understanding, a development that would later strengthen his calling.

Obscure seasons can feel frustrating. You may pray for opportunities, visibility, or a breakthrough, yet find yourself waiting. Scripture shows again and again that God uses these hidden times to prepare His people. David had years in the fields. Moses had years in the desert. Paul had years in Arabia and Damascus. God is not rushed. He forms us patiently so that when our testimony emerges, it reflects His work rather than our own striving.

Your story may include places where you felt unseen or forgotten. Those are the exact places where God was forming your character. When the time is right, what He has shaped in private will begin to bear fruit in ways that glorify Him. Waiting is not a sign of God’s absence. It is often the most unmistakable evidence of His careful preparation.

Big Idea 2: God Connects Us to the Right Voices at the Right Time

When Paul finally went to Jerusalem, he did not meet with crowds or committees. He met with Peter and James. These two leaders held unique roles in the early church. God connected Paul with individuals who would strengthen his foundation, affirm his calling, and help shape his understanding of the gospel he preached.

Spiritual growth is never meant to happen alone. God places people in our lives who help refine our story and confirm God’s work within us. Some relationships strengthen our theology. Others sharpen our character. Still others help guide our calling. Paul spent only 15 days with Peter, yet this brief time greatly contributed to his understanding and confidence in the gospel.

In a world that values networking and visibility, Paul’s example points us to something more profound. Growth does not come from gathering many voices. It comes from receiving the right voices that God places in our path. When you allow God to guide your relationships, He will bring people into your life who help shape your testimony for His glory.

Big Idea 3: A Transformed Life Becomes a Testimony Others Can See

Paul describes how the churches in Judea saw his transformation. They did not know him personally. They only heard the story. The man who once tried to destroy the church was now preaching the faith he opposed. Their response is powerful. They glorified God because of him. Paul’s transformation pointed people to Christ rather than to his own abilities.

A true testimony does not draw attention to the person. It draws attention to the Redeemer. Paul was not celebrated for his intelligence, his background, or his accomplishments. Instead, people worshiped God when they heard how grace had reshaped his life. This is what happens when the gospel takes root. The story becomes less about the person and more about the God who saves, restores, and sends.

Your life may carry chapters you are not proud of. Paul certainly had his. Yet those very chapters became evidence of God’s power to change a life. When others see humility, consistency, and grace at work in you, they begin to recognize the presence of Christ. Your testimony becomes a living invitation for others to trust Him as well.

Conclusion

Paul’s journey through obscurity, connection, and transformation reveals a profound truth. God writes testimony with care and purpose. He shapes, guides, and reveals His work in ways that bring Him glory. The Galatians needed this reminder, and so do we. A testimony is not something we craft. It is something God creates in us as we surrender to His work.

As you reflect on this passage, consider the story God is writing in your life. Think about the seasons that shaped you, the people who influenced you, and the transformation God continues to bring. Your life, like Paul’s, is meant to point others to His grace.

Action Step

Identify one part of your story where God has clearly worked in you. Share it with someone this week or write it down as a reminder of His faithfulness.

Reflection Questions

1. What hidden seasons has God used to shape you into who you are becoming
2. Who are the key people God has used to speak into your spiritual growth
3. How has your transformation brought glory to God in the eyes of others

“A changed life is one of the greatest testimonies to the power of the gospel.” Warren Wiersbe

Prayer

Lord, thank You for shaping my story with wisdom and grace. Help me trust You in the hidden seasons, receive the relationships You bring, and live in a way that brings glory to Your name. Use my testimony to point others to Christ. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

It begins with Christ!

If you don’t know Christ as your savior, it begins with the first step. Believe in Him and make Him Lord of your life! Committing your life to serve Him is the most significant decision! For more information on serving the Lord, CLICK HERE!

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Blessings,

Chad 

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