Do you remember who radically told you about Jesus? Who said or did something to change your whole view on life?
The person who radically told me about Jesus was my mom. She said the thing that triggered my redirection towards God. But it was moments leading up to that, too. Like the man who randomly stopped me in a parking lot and asked to pray for me. It was the guy on the street corner boldly telling people God loves them. And it was the folks handing out new testaments on campus.
But I still think about what my mom said to me when I was crying on my couch my sophomore year of college.
The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.
Psalms 34:18 NKJV
“Are you going to church?” She asked for what felt like the 100th time. “WHY ARE YOU ASKING ME THAT?” I raised my voice at her, angry.
“I’m worried about your salvation.”
She recognized my broken heart, knew the Lord was near, and gave me the message I needed to hear. It was the first time anyone had directly talked to me about my eternal life. My soul. Talk about being bold.
I was shaken to my core, and I don’t remember how the phone call ended that day. But I do remember the choices I started making the days after.
I went to Sunday service and prayed, “I am ready, God, to do it your way. My way isn’t working, and I can’t go on like this.” Until that day, I hadn’t received a word from God in 3 years. My choices had put me in such misalignment that even though I was going to church, I was receiving nothing. I finally took control of my life and started being obedient to God.
God said, “Move out of your boyfriend’s apartment.” So I did.
God said, “I will bring you new friends.” So I diligently worked on being the best person I could be for them.
God said, “Surround yourself with my word.” So I made note cards with His word in my room and read it every day. I started asking God to intervene in my life and to renew my mind.
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Romans 12:2 NKJV
Has someone in your life been bold enough to tell you what you needed to hear? In your time of need, did someone show up for you? I want you to remember those moments. Reflect on your actions afterward.
Do you see God in those moments? He used people to show up for you. He placed a message in someone to deliver to you. He is intentional about you.
He is there for your joy. Your happiness. Your peace. He is working behind the scenes, putting things in place just for you, just when you need it.
For instance, He put me here writing this for you.
And if, like me, doing life your way isn’t working. Seek God. Because He is seeking you.
But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.
Luke 12:31 NKJV