
The Know Their Story initiative has been all about learning to notice and love the people around you. It’s about stepping into conversations where others feel safe enough to share deeply with you—not just so you can see if the door is open to share the gospel, but because you truly care about them, just like your Heavenly Father does.
This is a call to turn everyday conversations—at work, in the checkout line, with neighbors, or at a ballgame—into spiritual moments, moments God can use for eternal impact. We do this not in our own strength, but as participants in the Great Commission:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19–20)
Each story we hear isn’t just a moment—it’s a seed. As Jesus taught in the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13), some seeds fall on rocky ground, some among thorns, and others on good soil. We don’t control the soil—but we do sow. Every meaningful conversation has the potential to take root and grow in someone’s heart. That’s why it matters that we follow up, keep listening, and stay available if the Spirit leads.
And it’s why we must remember their stories. Because remembering leads to deeper care, stronger connection, and continued spiritual impact.
Here are a few practical ways to remember the stories you hear:
1. Pray for them by name.
When someone shares a piece of their life with you, carry it with you in prayer. Keep a list on your phone or journal. Pray that God would continue working in their heart and give you more opportunities to love them well.
2. Follow up if the door is still open.
Ask how that situation is going. Let them know you remembered. A simple, “I’ve been praying—any updates?” can speak volumes about your sincerity and your heart.
3. Write down what you can.
It doesn’t have to be elaborate—even a few notes about their name, background, or prayer request will help you recall the conversation and stay personally invested.
And don’t forget about the story bins! Those ping-pong balls aren’t about tracking numbers. They represent real people, real moments, and real steps of obedience. Think of each one as a milestone in someone’s spiritual journey. When you walk by the bins, take a moment to pause and pray. Thank God for the stories already shared, and ask Him for more.
This may be the last coaching tip—but it’s not the end of the journey. Gospel conversations don’t end after 12 weeks or even at the end of the year. They become part of a lifestyle shaped by intentional love and Spirit-led engagement. Keep noticing people. Keep listening well. Keep remembering their stories. And keep looking for ways to share His Story.
As you continue in this work, may you be encouraged by these words from Scripture:
“To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of His calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 1:11–12)