Sometimes, God breaks into a person’s life in the most unexpected way. That’s exactly what happened to Lachlan Shipard. Sitting in his bedroom, with no thought of God in his mind, he suddenly felt a strong impression that God wanted to speak to him.
At first, Lachlan dismissed it. “That’s ridiculous,” he thought. “I’m not doing that. I don’t need God.” He was happy enough chasing success, saving money, and living life on his own terms. But then, twenty minutes later, the same thought came back – only this time, it overwhelmed him. He couldn’t shake it. It was as if God was saying, “You have to come and talk to Me now.”
In that moment, Lachlan realised he couldn’t ignore it anymore. He decided to speak to God, even though he didn’t fully know how. That decision became a turning point that would change his life.
You can listen to his full story on our latest video podcast episode
Using Stories Like This in Conversations
Lachlan’s story is powerful because it’s real. It’s not a polished sermon, it’s a raw moment of God stepping into someone’s life. And the truth is, every believer has a story – whether dramatic like Lachlan’s or quiet and gradual – that can be used to point others to Jesus.
Here are a few ways you can use stories like Lachlan’s (or your own) when talking with non-believers:
1. Share it as an example of God’s initiative
Often, people think faith is all about humans reaching up to God. Lachlan’s story flips that around, it shows God reaching out first. That lines up with Scripture: “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). When you tell Lachlan’s story, it reminds people that God is personal and takes the first step.
2. Use it to start a conversation about listening
Most people, whether Christian or not, have had moments where they felt something bigger was trying to get their attention. You could ask: “Have you ever had a moment where you felt like something outside yourself was nudging you?” Lachlan’s story opens the door to talk about spiritual experiences without being confrontational.
3. Link it back to Jesus
Stories are bridges, but the goal is always to point to Christ. You might say, “For Lachlan, that unexpected encounter eventually led him to discover who Jesus really is. Has anyone ever shared with you what the Bible says about Jesus?” That way, the conversation naturally moves from story to gospel.
3 Questions for Reflection
- How would you share Lachlan’s story in a natural way with someone who doesn’t yet believe?
- What part of your own journey with God could you share that shows His love or pursuit of you?
- Who in your life right now might be open to hearing a personal story like this?
Your Story Matters Too
You don’t need to have an encounter identical to Lachlan’s to make an impact. Maybe your story is about peace in a tough season, or how a friend’s kindness opened you to faith. Big or small, God uses it all.
As Paul wrote, “You are a letter from Christ… written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God” (2 Corinthians 3:3). People might not read the Bible straight away, but they can read your life and hear your story.
So don’t underestimate the power of simply sharing what God has done in your life.
Share your stories of evangelism on our social media (Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn), listen to The WIN WIN Evangelism Podcast, or email us at team@evangelisminaustralia.com.
