Monday, November 24, 2008

How This All Began

A few months ago I stopped by the bookstore for a new read. Not a big reader, well I wasn't before. So I'm scanning the books when one catches my eye. No particular reason why, I was just drawn to it. It took me only about 3 days to finish it, a new personal best. About midway through it, I new I was experiencing something wonderful! Enough suspense, it was The Shack by William Paul Young. If you haven't heard of it, we must have met under that rock you're still living under. If you have read it, you're in large company.

But really, I've skipped ahead. Before this book I was just your average mom, self-employed and living apart from God. I knew Him, was born-again in 1996 but turned away to do it my way. Then this book found its way into my hands.

I couldn't get enough! It was so beautifully written, so eloquent and tender and raw. Anyway, to sum it up, it left me absolutely craving more of Him! I began praying again, and I haven't been able to stop reading and learning about Him since. Even when I was "born-again" I didn't have this insatiable appetite for His word.

Over the last few months, God has been really busy with me. Not in that sweet, subtle, gentle way... but in that let-me-smack-you-upside-the-back-of-the-head kind of way. I guess He knew that I can be a bit stubborn, so He customized His plan especially for a self-centered, fear-of-failure, procrastinator like me. I've started attending a new church, joined a Bible study group and am committed to studying Him daily. Part of my routine includes reading several blogs which led me here. I figured if I enjoy blogs so much, why not have one of my own.

I have been praying for God to show me how I can serve Him. I don't know if this is one way or not. I'm not very diligent at finishing what I start so maybe this is a challenge, a chance to show how the power of God can change people. So bear with me, encourage me, hold me accountable, and let me know what you think.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hello Leslie! Thank you first for following my blog. Secondly, you are at a great start with your walk in the Lord. The road God will have you travel will not be easy, but do know that He is with you every step of the way. Simply take it one day at a time. Stay in the word, stay in prayer and most of all keep God first in all that you do. If you need anything at all, I am just a "blog" away. Feel free to ask me anything or just drop me a line when you need a "lift of encouragement." I will be there for you and so will many others who are my friends in the blogosphere world! God bless you my new friend in Christ. My email address if you want to speak to me privately is gospelscoop@gmail.com.

Unknown said...

I agree with Valerie's reply; you are at a great beginning with following God.

I too, had a rough time understanding and knowing who God REALLY is and His son Jesus for years, until one day He entered my heart and changed everything, but I'm still not perfect; I still let Him down. We all do but what you said in your post is great; to be honest with yourself and with Him about the big things or little things, or just saying 'I don't understand You God...'

God has a HUGE plan for you, even if you don't see it now, He does. Keep your eye's (focus) on God first and everything else will fall into place. Put Him first in everything! However, it's not always easy. I should know because I slipped a few times too but God was always faithful and forgiving to pick me back up! Praise God. And He is so happy with you that you are seeking Him; trust that He will supply the answers you're looking for. Many hugs,

~Sarah