I had been married four years when I attended my first Bible study and then gave my life to Jesus Christ. He entered my life and changed it completely. I became a new person! I still remember that first week when everyday I would see my life with new eyes. My desires changed. My life’s purpose changed. Moreover, God filled me with a new love, peace and joy that I’d never before known.
Later that year I received a Christmas letter from one of my closest friends from nursing school. I wrote back sharing how Christ had changed my life. I even sent her a booklet by Bill Bright called, Would You Like to Know Christ Personally? https://www.cru.org/how-to-know-god/would-you-like-to-know-god-personally.html She did not respond to my booklet or my good news.
I did not hear back from her until the following Christmas. Again I responded with a Christmas letter sharing new things God had taught me during the past year. I also sent her a recorded message.
Again I didn’t hear back from her until the following Christmas. Again I responded the same. This went on for ten years! One day she called. She was coming to town and coming over. She said, “We need to talk.”
I was thrilled to see her! Then she said, “You know all those letters and tapes and booklets about God you sent me over the years? They were not wasted. I read your letters over and over—the booklets too! I listened to your tapes repeatedly. I want you to know that they were instrumental in my decision to surrender my life to Jesus Christ. He has changed my life and I am forever grateful.” We hugged and cried and prayed together.
Even though she lives in another part of the world, we’ve become closer than ever. After all, we are now true sisters in the Lord. Moreover, her husband has since come to Christ as well. How good is our God! I will forever praise Him.
- In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16
- Remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins. James 5:20
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[This life is temporary. This life is short. When this life is over, our bodies will die and become an empty shell, but our souls will continue to live forever. Where will the “real you” live? Will you live for all eternity separated from God? Or will you spend eternity in the presence of God in heaven? Learn more so you can make your most important decision: http://www.whoisjesus-really.com/
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Persistence paid off and another soul was snatched out of the kingdom of darkness.
That’s so true, Helene. Although at the time I didn’t think I was being persistent. I was just writing a good friend at Christmastime and sharing a little bit of my life.
Hi Kathleen, This is a great reminder that we never know what God is using in someone’s life and it is up to us to remain faithful! I remember a young gal telling me one time that I had led her to the Lord and my response was “I did?” Turns out, I was her Sunday School teacher during her elementary school years and the Lord used my words to bring her to a saving knowledge of Him. I’m sure there were other influences too as He so awesomely weaves the stories of our lives, but how special to know He had used me too. Blessings, Amy
This is so true, Amy! That’s why we should always be about our Father’s business, keeping being alert for opportunities to shine forth God’s goodness. I appreciate your comment.
Hi Kathleen, You speak of seeing things with new eyes – this time when we become born again. God is so amazing and what He offers us is beyond words can actually capture. We are so blessed! Thank you! Sandra http://www.sandra-ramblingrose.blogspot.com
Indeed, we are so blessed. Only those who have truly been born again can understand. Thank you for stopping by!
Thank you for your faithfulness and perseverance.
It’s not difficult to be faithful to someone you love.
What a sweet story of joyful blessing. A cold heart turned into love and warmth for Jesus because of messages sent in the season of hope. Christmas blessings falling continuously, absorbed like the ground drinks of the pure, white snow.
Thank you Liana! You are poetic even when you’re not trying! Love your poetry: http://poetrycottage.wordpress.com/