God's Transforming Power

It's wonderful to be a part of the family of God! I'm thankful to say that I was saved at a young age. I had a mother who loved the Lord and loved me enough to teach me about the Lord and His Word even before I could understand it. I have fond memories of my mom reading me Bible stories and praying with me on the edge of my bed before falling asleep. She would share the greatest story of them all--that of Christ coming to earth from Heaven's throne with the purpose of dying on the cross for me out of a heart of immense love. She would speak of my sin and how Christ could cleanse me of that sin and make my black heart of sin white because of his red-stained body that hung upon that cross. This Christ could come into my heart and be my personal Savior. Many nights she began asking me if I'd like to receive this Christ as my own. Finally one night in July as a five-year-old I was ready. Mom had explained the Gospel message again and this time I truly understood and wanted this relationship for myself. Mom led me in the sinner's prayer and I remember her being so very happy and crying afterwards. I was part of God's forever family. Though I didn't understand fully what that meant at the time, it was a special night and the angels were rejoicing in heaven.

I continued to go to church regularly and began studying the Bible even in elementary school as mom and dad bought devotional books for me. The AWANA program really helped the Word become a part of me as I hid it's words in my heart. It wouldn't be until middle school that I realized I needed to become baptized and did that out of obedience to the Word. I'm thankful for opportunities to grow through a strong youth group, camps, Christian schooling (middle and high school), Bob Jones University, and some great Christian friends. Though life growing up wasn't without its stuggles, looking back, I'm thankful the Lord saved me at a young age.

A personal relationship with the Lord is life's greatest privilege and blessing, though undeserved. What an amazing Savior!!!