I'm that girl who grew up in church. I have awesome parents. There was food on the table. I had a bed to sleep in. I haven't really had to do a lot of struggling in life, but there are some people who's story isn't like mine at all.
I attended Nashville WinterJam this past February, and it was to that point of the show where there was a speaker. Tony Nolan came on stage and started to talk. He told the audience about his struggles without Jesus, and how different his life is now. In my mind I was just thinking "wow, that is so amazing, but my testimony is not like that." I found myself comparing my story to his. I was sitting there thinking that I could never tell my testimony to people because I haven't been through that much heartache and tough times. "I'm a girl that grew up in church." "My mom is the preschool director, and my dad is a deacon." These were the thoughts coming to me.
The concert was over, and I went on with life. It wasn't until later that I heard God speaking to me, telling me that my testimony matters. He reminded me of how I got to Him. He showed me that I had struggles without Him. He showed me that I am a new creation. He showed me that I am changed. We all have a story. We all find Jesus in different ways. We all have a different journey. Whether you found Jesus when you were young, old, rich, or poor, you have a testimony.
In conclusion, I feel called to share my story. As you now know, I grew up in church, I was there every time the doors were opened. I spent time there even we I didn't have to. When I was six-years-old, I talked to my pastor about getting saved. I don't remember much, but I do remember just nodding my head and quietly agreeing when He asked me about the gospel. Do you believe Jesus is the son of God? "Yes." Do you believe He died on the cross for your sins? "Yes." I just agreed because I thought I had to. I saw other people do it, so why not me? I then walked an aisle and got baptized. I didn't know what it meant, but I did it. It wasnt until I was 13 that my life was changed forever.
I was sitting in youth one night when I just felt something so heavy tug at my heart and I knew who it was. I immediately couldn't focus, and I knew I had to talk to someone. When I got home that night, I told my mom and dad that I wanted to be saved. They took my to their bathroom, and sat me on the floor. I prayed right there and gave my life to Jesus.
Let's start a revival, everyone. Share your story. Proclaim it to the world. Tell the good news.