In Spite Of Stubbornness

You know, I never wanted to become a Christian. As a matter of fact, I was determined never to become a Christian. That was forty years ago.

It was comments like, “When you become a Christian . . . ” or “Once you have made your decision for Christ, you . . . ” that made my stubborn mind rebel and say, “Just for that – NEVER!” That was forty years ago.

When I was eighteen, despite my stubborn refusal, God spoke to me – in a very quiet, but personal way – that I would lose out on a purposeful life and all of eternity because of my rebellion. That was forty years ago.

That summer, at the age of eighteen, without fanfare or pressure, I gave up my will and committed it to the Lord, my Saviour. Now I can look back and reflect over the past forty years and be forever grateful for the meaning, purpose and fulfilment He has put in my life. He has spared me from countless consequences because I was willing to do HIS will and not my own.

I have gone through some very difficult and challenging times over these years, and I must admit that at times my faith started to waver. But HE never did. He was patient and forgiving and always there for me to take me on to the next step. Now I have the privilege of remembering countless times of answered prayers, years of purpose and much joy. And when there are new situations in my life that want to make me doubt, I can draw on those past experiences of grace and love and realize that this new situation, whatever it may be, will also be resolved in His timing and in His way.

If you are at a crossroad in your life and thinking about giving your life over to Him, don’t expect to have all your problems solved and “sunshine forevermore.” Be willing to be His servant. As a “servant” you will experience companionship and adventure with Him that you could not possibly imagine.

This may sound like a paradox and it does need to be lived to be experienced. So be brave! Step out! Ask Him to forgive you for your selfish past. Relinquish your rights and ask Him to be in control. Ask Him to heal your hurts and disappointments and to use you in whichever way HE designs for you.

I guarantee you will not be disappointed. And then forty years down the road you will agree that it was the best and most important decision you ever made in your life.

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, God has given you His Holy Spirit to help you live life according to His perfect plan. Why not pray this simple prayer and by faith invite Him to fill you with His Spirit:

Dear Father, I need you. I acknowledge that I have sinned against you by directing my own life. I thank You that You have forgiven my sins through Christ’s death on the cross for me. I now invite Christ to again take His place on the throne of my life. Fill me with the Holy Spirit as You commanded me to be filled, and as You promised in Your Word that You would do if I asked in faith. I pray this in the name of Jesus. As an expression of my faith, I thank You for directing my life and for filling me with the Holy Spirit. Amen.

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