(Chapter One)
The Difference…
Over 24 years ago, something happened to me that changed the rest of my life. For years I wondered what I was accomplishing that really made a difference for the future–for my husband, for my son, for my family or friends…
What could such an ordinary woman do that would possibly have an impact on a world so big as ours? What had I done in my life that truly mattered and what would make a difference for all of eternity? This was a very difficult question for me to ask…one which I did not really want to think about. But then, something did happen in my life that had an eternal impact…not only for me, but for my family, friends and even strangers I would meet one day.
Saving Grace
In the spring of 1986, a young woman by the name of Rae, took the Bible and showed me the saving grace of God. She showed me from His Word how I could know for sure that I could have an eternal home in Heaven! She showed me in the Bible that eternal life is not based upon what I have done in my life. Eternal life is based upon what Jesus Christ has already done for me 2000 years ago on the cross of Calvary.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God; Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Schools of Learning
Throughout my life I had been through many different “schools” of learning. I had taken numerous tests…some of which I failed and found myself having to take over again. I made so many wrong decisions…all of which had consequences that I would have to live with and accept…both good and bad.
Life has so much to teach us about ourselves and about others, but mostly, life has so much to teach about God and why we are here in the day in which God chose to place us upon this earth.
The decisions I was making as a lost person (without Christ) were all based upon the influences of a lost and dying world. Those decisions were based on sinful attitudes, ideas and flesh…the root sin of which is pride.
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Better it is to be an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he. The wise in heart shall be called prudent; and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning. (Proverbs 16:18)
What was needed in my life was the wisdom and discernment of the Lord. With His guidance, the decisions I would make would help me find joy and wisdom.
…The next “letter” I’ll post will tell you how I was introduced to Jesus Christ and what the Lord said to me 24 years ago….
Lori
