When I was asked to give my testimony for a recent service at our church, Community Church of Douglas, I didn't hesitate. Maybe I should have or maybe I should have worked on what I was going to say. Because what I said was confusing even to me - and the look on Pastor Beebe's face as I was jabbering showed confusion as well.
So, here is what I was trying to say ...
I grew up in the Catholic Church where the word testimony was not used - the concept of being 'saved' or 'used' by God is not taught. In that faith tradition, you're baptized and are cleansed of original sin and then as a child taught to serve God through good works. A personal relationship with God was foreign to me until I began Bible studies in my 40s and then "POW" my life was forever changed because I have always felt a call to be in relationship with God.
The call was not to be in service or profession, but to live my life like one who has this relationship. That is at peace knowing that there is nothing I cannot do as long as I have God with me. Philippians' 4:13 is the verse I live "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."
I can live a life with a positive outlook while rolling instead of walking. I can smile while battling breast cancer because I know a power stronger than any is there with me. I can be a caregiver to the patient patient because I know there are is one with walking alongside me, guiding us and surrounding us with all that we need. I can be me because I am filled with the Holy Spirit who guides.
That is what I was trying to say, that is my testimony.
@kathleenpiggins
@brandonbeebe
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