Growing up in a large Christian family was a special
gift. I have been surrounded by greatness from birth. Not because of wealth, fame, or great accomplishments. The greatness
I'm speaking of is having a wonder loving family with a strong faith in God! My parents taught all six of their children to
trust in God. They told taught their children to never depend on man, but to only trust in God for all things! So I had the
love of my parents, my older siblings, and the love of God in my heart.
I do not remember a time when we did not go
to church. (At least by the time I was born into the family) Every Sunday was a special day for us to worship together in
the house of God. I was surrounded by a wonderful family home, in addition to my spiritual family at my home church in New
York City. My childhood was great, and I loved being the youngest child in my family.
Of course my family was not perfect.
My parents would often tell us that everything we have was because of the love and mercy of Jesus Christ. They told us the
story of how God changed their lives. Growing up I can remember that in the good times, and even in the bad times we would
bind together as a family and we could get through almost anything.
Growing up as a young lady I discovered I had what
most women wanted. I had a wonderful family that loved me, friends, beauty, and talent. I would eventually develop my own
personality and desires as a young adult. As a young adult I decided it was time for me to do things my own way like most
young people. I knew my parents loved me, but I had to find myself, and I needed to discover what I wanted to do with my life.
I needed to know if God was truly real. And if so, I wanted to feel God for myself.
At the age of 17, I remember my
mother telling me that she would no longer force me to go to church. My mother said it was time for me to make my own decision
if I wanted to live for Christ or go in my own way. At that time, I thought my mother was too strict! I remember saying to
myself yes!!! Finally, I don't have to go to that church every Sunday. But it only took one or two weeks for me to realize
I loved knowing Jesus Christ for myself. Everything I tried to do; I just didn't fit in.
The young man I was dating
at the time told me, "You will always be a good Christian girl." (I read between the lines) I had to let him go!
I
thought maybe I would try cigarettes, but being a vocal major I didn't want to destroy my voice. To me smoking made no sense
so that was out! I didn't want to make a mess of my life by trying drugs. I had goals set for my life.
My best friend
once told me if she had the looks and body I had she would get any man and everything she wanted. I didn't want to sell myself
cheap for material things. It just wasn't in me.
I decided one day to stop looking in the wrong places and live my
life for the Lord. To my surprise, I found joy in living for the Lord. I found Love, hope, and peace that passes all understanding.
I have comfort for my heart and mind that only God can give.
That's the reason that I know God is real. I can hide
in the arms of Jesus when problems of life come and I don't know what to do. I read the word of God and it gives me the faith
and hope I need to make it everyday. There is nothing, or anyone that can fill your heart the way the Lord Jesus Christ can.
Today one of my favorite scriptures is:
"HE THAT DWELLS IN THE SECRET PLACE OF THE MOST HIGH SHALL ABIDE UNDER THE
SHADOW OF THE ALMIGHTY" (PSALM 91)I wouldn't take anything for my salvation! You can be young and still live a clean life!
You can love the Lord and enjoy your life to the fullest! There is joy in living for God. Today I'm greatful for the way my
parents rasied me.
I often smile when I look in the eyes of my sweet children, because my husband and I are raising
them the same way our parents raised us. That is according to the word of God.
I tell people everywhere I go, God
can be anything you want him to be, but you have to let him be first in your life!
IF YOU HAVE TRYED EVERYTHING AND
IT FAILED; WHY NOT TRY GOD?
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