Thomas was 15-years-old and incarcerated for the fourth time. This was his first time in my Bible study and he asked deep and thoughtful questions. When I finished the lesson he said he wanted to turn his life around and follow Jesus. That night he and several others prayed to surrender their lives to Christ. Before leaving, I handed each of them a copy of a helpful tract to take back to their rooms.
A week later Thomas came running excitedly into class. He said, “You know last week I prayed with you to receive Jesus, right? Later you gave me a little booklet called Charlie’s Ants. Remember? Now I know I prayed with you, but it wasn’t until I was back in my room and read Charlie’s Ants that something happened.
“When I finished it, I fell on my knees next to my bed, with my face to the floor and called out to Jesus. He came into my life right then and changed me. He’s REAL! This whole week I have felt His presence. I’m not angry anymore. In fact, I’m happy! I have peace.”
I said, “Thomas, that is the joy of the Lord. Yes He is real. He is powerful. He is working IN you now, so that He can work THROUGH you to help others.
Another boy spoke up, “What he said is true. Thomas has not been in a fight all week—and he used to get into fights every day!”
- Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, that person is a new creation: The old has gone, the new is here. 2 Corinthians 5:17
- You can read Charlie’s Ants too! http://www.chick.com/reading/tracts/0039/0039_01.asp
- SONG: SEVEN TIMES A DAY – Words from Psalms 119 & 2 Thess 3:6; Music by Kathleen
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[This life is temporary. This life is short. When this life is over, our bodies will die and become empty shells, 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.godlife.com/gospel/ and http://www.godlife.com/en/about-christianity
Thank you for this wonderful story. Our young people need help, encouragement and our prayers. And, of course, Jesus!
Thank you, Brad. Yes, our young people have many needs. Most of all, Jesus!
I love your stories, Kathleen! What a beautiful example of a soul moving from death to life! Joy indeed comes in the morning when Christ dawns into a life for the first time!
That is exactly what it was, Karen! A teenager was born again–and with great joy!
The heart, born anew and alive unto Jesus, changes us forever!! Great post!
Indeed. Jesus’ power changes us from the inside out and His change is forever.
You have published an awesome website.
Thank you for the encouragement, Shawna!
Another blessed testimony Kathleen. The light and love of Jesus is with you always. Your boldness for Christ is beautiful and because of your faithfulness many are being delivered from prison with eyes opened. Praise God.
Frankly, it’s God who gives me His words and His boldness. For that I thank Him.
Another amazing testimony of the life-changing power of the gospel. The realness of that life-changing power can be seen in the change it makes in the lives of people. It was seen in the life of Thomas, who had been incarcerated four times by the age of 15. Thanks for sharing, Kathleen.
Yes, it WAS an amazing testimony! Jesus IS real and He DOES change lives. Thanks for your comment, Frank!