Part of being a Christian is telling
other people our testimony. We should all share our stories with others, both
believers and unbelievers. By telling our story, we can help other Christians
strengthen their own faith. Telling unbelievers about our lives before and after
accepting God into our lives may be just what it takes to plant the seed of
God's truth in their hearts.
After accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I felt compelled to write my feelings and emotions down on paper.
Here's my story.
My "coming to God" is really not all that spectacular. It was more of a
"returning to God". As a child, I was raised by a mother who holds a deep belief in God. She made
sure all of her kids went to church and Sunday school. This built, or so I thought at the
time, a solid foundation of belief and a life with God. But, what we think as a child isn't always
what we know as an adult. I can look back on those days and wonder how I could've wandered so
far.
After leaving home for the military, I stopped going to church. No, it wasn't
the military's fault, it was mine. I figured that since I was an adult I knew everything.
The only time I thought about God was when things didn't go as I'd planned. At those times I'd ask,
"Why me Lord?" When things went well I'd say, "Look at what I did!" Even through my college
days it was more of the same. I never got involved in drugs or heavy drinking, but there were
other things I did which weren't very nice. "What?", you ask. Since this is my testimony and
you're fellow Christians I should just let it all out. I don't think that's necessary, only
God needs to know. Let me just say, I'm ashamed of some of the things I've done. From today's
perspective, my life wasn't so good after I turned my back on God. Nothing seemed to go the right way,
people didn't always trust me, and I alienated many of my friends.
It's funny sometimes what will plant the seed of truth in a person's heart.
Believe it or not, my seed was a quote from a movie. In the movie The Stand (by Stephen
King), Mother Abigail tells Nick Andros: "It don't matter if you believe in him
[referring to God] . . . he
believes in you." I thought about that quote many times.
I've always loved gospel music. Yes, even after turning my back on God. My
mom and I attended our first Gaither Homecoming Concert a few years ago. Some of
you may have heard similar stories. Exactly! That concert completely changed my life.
I don't remember the song but, when Jessy Dixon started singing, I was overwhelmed by
the feeling of the Holy Spirit entering my soul. God has been there ever since.
No, I'm not perfect. I once heard someone compare a growing Christian to a
building under construction. I agree. I've accepted Jesus as my Lord
and Savior, I know God has forgiven my sins, and I realize that he accepts me despite my
imperfections and will stand beside me and guide me. Life isn't always easy as a Christian,
some people just don't understand us, but now I have the great I AM to help me over the
rough spots. That's why I use COG1999 as my computer chat room name. COG = Child of God.
By using that name, I'm reminded everyday of that truth - I AM HIS CHILD! The
1999 isn't just an add-on, that's the year of my "returning".
I give my thanks to God every night for taking me back after all I've done.
My writings are my way of sharing his love for me with others. Ever since that
night a few years ago, I've been writing of many spiritual matters. I believe this is
God's way of using me to help others.
There's a great song out there for all of us - "Sinner Saved By Grace" by
Bill Gaither. Listen to it sometime. That's me.
May all the glory be to God our Father.
2008: For many years, people have been telling me I
should become a pastor. Some said they could tell God must have called me to
that position because they could hear it in my teaching. I kept closing my ears
to them, telling them they may feel I was called, but I didn't feel the same. After
much discussion, my friend Tom Kent finally helped to open my eyes to my true
calling and I accepted the position of a pastor within his church. After further
prayer, I realized my calling was to start my own church and this internet
outreach. I'm still leaving my heart open to any further leading of the Holy
Spirit.
