|
I was saved when I was 15. By chance, I went to a Christmas play that a student teacher at my school was helping direct. I really wasn't a big fan of this man, I was going to hang out with all of my friends that would be there. The play ended with a teenage boy that had given up on life and he took his own life. I was so moved. I didn't care who was watching me from school. When Mr. Reeves asked for anyone to come forward who wasn't saved, I walked straight down to the alter while crying my eyes out. I remembered my two girlfriends trying to keep me from going down to the front....I believe they were too scared to go down as well. Finally, while I was praying, my friends joined me...then more of my friends from school also came to the alter. All I knew was that my story was true. I meant every word that I was saying.
Afterward, I began reading my Bible daily and became entangled in God's word. Slowly but surely, I fell back into my old ways and bad habits and church seemed to be the last thing on my mind. I couldn't wait for the next weekend to go to the many parties that were always lined up......lined up to keep me further away from where I needed to be. I went for many years thinking about that day and the decision I had made to God and myself. I kept saying to myself, "Don't rush. Don't stop having all of the fun you want. You're young and you are suppose to do these things." I realized that I was trying to bargain with God. I was lying to myself and worse, to my God. As I got a older, I realized that what people were saying was true....we are never promised tomorrow. Of course, I was still hard-headed and followed my own plan for a few more years until one day at North Park Baptist Church, at the age of 26, I finally decided to stop talking myself into the false belief that I still had time to change. 26 years old. All of that wasted time. I was so ashamed of myself. Once again, I walked up to the alter and I recommitted my entire life to God. Not just the pieces that I wanted to give Him....I gave Him it all! Now, when I look at the children at NPBC, I pray that they have already made that decision long, long ago. I am so amazed to see genuine worship and prayer coming from kids that are fifteen years old and that have their minds set on what's above. I am so thankful for my long and scary journey each time I look at them because I can see it in their eyes that they are where it took me 26 years of life to get. I am so thankful to be loved by Him still. After all of the years that I ignored Him, He still wrapped His arms around me and He forgave me. That is true love like none other. I am so blessed.
His Servant,
Kelly Stedham Bollinger
|
Login
FAQ
Search
