the day my life changed forever.
19 years ago today, on August 13, 1993 - I made a decision that changed my life forever.
I chose a path that altered my destiny and defined who I am today.
I gave my life to Jesus Christ.
Never once regretted it.
Never looked back.
From that moment on, I knew my eternity was secure. I knew my sins were covered. I knew He loved me. I knew I went from darkness into light. And as young as I was, I knew I loved Jesus. I remember how I smiled a little bigger that day. In my little girl heart, I felt a new peace and security.
I'm no longer a 6 year old little girl with wide eyes. I'm a 25 year old woman who has seen some ups and downs in life - but through all the beauty and the pain, my hope has been steady. My Jesus...my faith - is always close to my heart and guides me in all I do.
My dear readers, I can honestly say - giving my life to Jesus was the best thing I've ever done. For me, it's not about religion or following "rules". It's not about just going to church or following a Bible study plan - those things are wonderful. But ultimately- it is about Him and my relationship with Him. He's my best friend. He's the love of my life. He is my everything.
Today, as I thought about the past 19 years - years of growing up, really.
This world and culture constantly scream at me, "He's not real - do your own thing, forget God!" - but my heart begs to differ. How can I turn away from someone so real I can almost touch Him, so close I can nearly hear His voice, so beautiful I can't take my gaze away? I could just as easily walk away and deny I ever knew my family as turn away from Him. I cannot. I love Him more than anything else. And though I fail Him every day, He has never failed me. He is always the same, always faithful, true, loving, forgiving, and gracious.
I am ruined for anything else. Broken, in the best sense. I am in love - sheer, utter, crazy, mad love. He is the love of my life - more than any other human love or romantic love - He will always be my #1 love - my True Prince. And I can't wait to see His beautiful face someday when He calls me home to Paradise.
Until then? I will spend my life loving Him. Imperfectly, yes. But passionately and completely.
Do you know Him? Because if you don't....man, you're missing out.
I saw this little scene alongside the road on my way home today, just had to snap a picture
I chose a path that altered my destiny and defined who I am today.
I gave my life to Jesus Christ.
Never once regretted it.
Never looked back.
From that moment on, I knew my eternity was secure. I knew my sins were covered. I knew He loved me. I knew I went from darkness into light. And as young as I was, I knew I loved Jesus. I remember how I smiled a little bigger that day. In my little girl heart, I felt a new peace and security.
I'm no longer a 6 year old little girl with wide eyes. I'm a 25 year old woman who has seen some ups and downs in life - but through all the beauty and the pain, my hope has been steady. My Jesus...my faith - is always close to my heart and guides me in all I do.
My dear readers, I can honestly say - giving my life to Jesus was the best thing I've ever done. For me, it's not about religion or following "rules". It's not about just going to church or following a Bible study plan - those things are wonderful. But ultimately- it is about Him and my relationship with Him. He's my best friend. He's the love of my life. He is my everything.
Today, as I thought about the past 19 years - years of growing up, really.
I remember times I've failed...
yet His mercy remains.
I think of those difficult moments when I was confused and hurting - and I could only cry...
& He was there, holding me close.
I think of the cost, at times...
and I know it is worth it ALL
I think of my sinful heart and ways I fall.
and I know I am forgiven and cleansed by the blood of Christ.
This world and culture constantly scream at me, "He's not real - do your own thing, forget God!" - but my heart begs to differ. How can I turn away from someone so real I can almost touch Him, so close I can nearly hear His voice, so beautiful I can't take my gaze away? I could just as easily walk away and deny I ever knew my family as turn away from Him. I cannot. I love Him more than anything else. And though I fail Him every day, He has never failed me. He is always the same, always faithful, true, loving, forgiving, and gracious.
I am ruined for anything else. Broken, in the best sense. I am in love - sheer, utter, crazy, mad love. He is the love of my life - more than any other human love or romantic love - He will always be my #1 love - my True Prince. And I can't wait to see His beautiful face someday when He calls me home to Paradise.
Until then? I will spend my life loving Him. Imperfectly, yes. But passionately and completely.
Do you know Him? Because if you don't....man, you're missing out.
Happy Monday, my loves.
If you don't know Him...I'd love to introduce you.
Because I cannot imagine life without knowing Him these past 19 years.
XO
Erin
Erin