232When have you felt the urgency to seek God?
I remember feeling GOD pulling at my heart, calling me to Him, and yet I kept resisting His call. For some time, I had felt a strong desire to attend church, but I continued making excuses and telling myself that I would go another time. On three separate occasions, I actually got in my vehicle and headed toward a church. But each time, whether I was halfway there or already sitting in the parking lot, I would turn around and leave. I remember the thoughts running through my mind. What if people stare at me? What if they judge me? What will they think of me? I imagined how uncomfortable and embarrassed I would feel. The devil will put so many thoughts, fears, and doubts in your mind to keep you from coming to JESUS and receiving salvation. But then came that final Sunday. I told myself, "No matter what happens, I'm going to church today. I'm not turning around this time." And by the grace of GOD, I didn't! All those fears I had carried were for nothing. I wasn't judged, spoken badly of, or turned away. I knew quite a few people there, but most were strangers to me. Yet I was welcomed with kindness, respect, and, most importantly, the love of JESUS. The following week, I remember being in my basement, tears streaming down my face, crying out to JESUS, "Save me!" That was nearly 13 years ago, and words cannot express how thankful I am. I'm so thankful that JESUS never gave up on me, even after I had resisted His call time and time again. He continued drawing me to Him, patiently and lovingly, even when I kept turning away. JESUS truly loves us. He doesn't just want us to know about Him; He wants us to know Him personally and have a real relationship with Him. And today, I am forever grateful that He never stopped calling me and that I finally answered. All glory, honor, and praise belong to JESUS!
