10 Places to Find Life-Changing Illustrations-Leigh Powers

Good teachers are also good storytellers. Stories capture our attention and imagination. They make us laugh, relieving tension. They create empathy, connecting us to our readers. They help us understand abstract concepts and figure out how to apply truth to our life. If we’re going to write life-changing Bible studies and devotions, we need to sharpen our storytelling skills. But in order to tell a story well, we need to have a good story to share. Here are ten places to find life-changing illustrations:

1. Personal experience. Writing means planting your bottom in the chair, but it can also mean putting your feet on the sidewalk. Go for a walk. Volunteer. People watch. Take the scenic route. Get outside and live, and write about what happens to you. Personal stories give readers a window into your life, and sharing personal experiences helps build credibility and trust with your readers
2. Nature. God reveals himself to us in creation. Harnessing stories from nature helps us reveal God’s fingerprints on the world he has made.
3. Literature and films. One of my favorite examples of faith is the moment from Indian Jones and the Last Crusade when Indy steps out onto a path he believes is there but cannot see. Aslan’s sacrifice, Sam’s loyalty to Frodo, Anne Shirley’s firm belief in the power of friendship—these stories resonate with us. While we need to handle them carefully, using illustrations from books and movies can help form points of connection between our readers’ interests and biblical truths.
4. Christian classics. We are blessed by the number and variety of books available today for Christian readers. But there is great value in also taking the time to read words that have stood the test of time. The thoughts and words of classic Christian authors can help us find fresh ways to express timeless truths.
5. History and biographies. While history is not my favorite genre, I discipline myself to read history and biographies on a regular basis. History helps us find touchstones from the past that still resonate today, and these stories can add interest and depth to your Bible studies.
6. Science and statistics. This is an area in which we need to be careful and be certain to cite our sources. Many frequently quoted statistics are not as reliable as people sometimes believe. It’s not true that 50 percent of all marriages end in divorce, no matter how many times you’ve heard it. Still, good information from science and statistical research can also provide good illustrations for your readers.
7. Family and friends. Tread carefully here and decide what the best boundaries for your family are. While I mention my children in my writing, I don’t share specific stories about them without their permission. Similarly, I recognize that my friends’ stories are their own and that they haven’t asked to have their lives splashed across the internet. Still, a good story is a good story, but I always ask for permission before sharing it in my writing and often change identifying details.
8. Current events. As I read the news, I’m always on the lookout for good stories that show everyday people doing amazing things. The news can be a great source for stories of compassion, humor, strength, and triumph. I find Evernote is a good tool for keeping track of news clippings.
9. Write your own parables. Take a cue from Jesus and write your own parables. Make sure that your audience knows it is a story and not a factual experience, but creating a parable can be a powerful way to convey truth.
10. Scripture. Sometimes Scripture is the best tool to illustrate Scripture. David’s victory over Goliath is an example of courage. Barnabas’s gift to the church at Jerusalem demonstrates sacrificial generosity, and Ruth’s care for Naomi is a perfect picture of loyalty, compassion, and grace. The stories of how God worked through people’s lives in Scripture can show us how God desires to work in our lives as well.

What are your favorite sources for illustrations?