My Story

On Sunday Elder Burden began discussing the fact that each of us has a story. A story of redemption and that story is a story that will give God glory. I want to write about my story. I hope you are encouraged.

In 1996 my cousin and I were looking for a church to attend that we both liked. Though I was looking for a church to go to, it was only for the purpose of attending because I knew it was the right thing to do in my life. I really can't say that I was a miserable person or that I was searching to make life better in some way. I wouldn't have said that I was lacking in joy or peace. I was existing and I really didn't have any complaints. I was working a full time job, living on my own, and making life happen for me and for my then 2 year old, Seth.

After a few months of searching, God led me to a church through my neighbor (who is now my husband) and after attending for 6 weeks, I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior. I knew about the Lord, about what He had done for me, and basically what I needed to do to live my life according to His word. I had been reared by a father and mother who loved the Lord, and as a matter of fact, I was a preacher's kid !

In June 1996, exactly 14 years ago, I surrendered my life to my Mighty Creator. I knew there were some areas I needed to change, but I loved the peace of having accepted Jesus and knowing that my sins were forgiven. I look back now on my life then and I am so thankful that those "things" I had to give up didn't keep me from seeking a relationship with my Father in heaven. I would give up those things over and over again to have the joy, peace and hope that I have today. I never realized there could be such overwhelming joy in life. The overwhelming peace truly does surpass all understanding. It's an amazing peace and it is indeed joy unspeakable!

I have been married for 13 years and all that my husband and I have gone through (which has been much) has only strengthened my faith and hope in my Jesus. We have had to deal with the circumstances of a blended family, serious health issues, death of our loved ones, broken hearts and betrayal by our friends, a growing personal business, and a bankruptcy (to only mention a few :) But regardless of those issues and situations in our lives, we have overcome. We can overcome because Jesus Himself overcame the world. He promises to never leave us nor forsake us - no matter where we are in life and no matter our circumstance. He is an everlasting God. And His love NEVER fails. NEVER. He is such an amazing and incredible God.

If you haven't experienced His love, His peace, or His joy, then I encourage you to open your heart to His and welcome Him in. You will not be disappointed by His peace or joy. There is no God but Him and no peace or joy like His. His grace is for you and His mercies are new every morning. God bless you and may you be overwhelmed by your Mighty Creator !