How can I thank God enough for 51 years of new life in Christ? I’m counting my blessings that began on that wonderful day 51 years ago today.
A new radiance in my spirit.
The lightness of a clean heart.
The knowledge that I — I — am loved.
I am brought near by the blood of Christ.
Given the gift of eternal life.
My mourning turned to dancing.
His nearness my good.
The Bible seemed like a dry, uninteresting Book, but it came to life when I made Jesus my Lord. It is a book like no other. Now I know from experience:
The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul;
The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold;
Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.
… Moreover, by them Your servant is warned;
In keeping them there is great reward.
(Psalm 19:7,8,10,11, emphasis mine)
The Holy Spirit living in me, whispering which way to walk — usually the way of greatest challenge, always the way of deepest joy.
He leads me in the privilege of blessing others:
Learning to tell people about Jesus*
Learning to tell my own story of faith so others can follow in my steps**
Learning, as an introvert: it’s more exciting and definitely more rewarding to talk! Talking about Jesus…
With friends — the first person I fully shared the gospel with was a college friend. She too wanted to turn her life over to Jesus. I nearly exploded with joy!
With family – some have rejected Him…until now. My sister and I prayed for our brother for 21 years…but now it’s been 30 years since he found Jesus and is totally changed, as we have been.
With strangers – how amazing it is to meet the people God brings my way. There are poignant moments as they pour out their stories, then let me share. Sometimes they recognize that God is pursuing them. Everywhere we go we can sow the seed of the gospel. God will provide the growth.
I’m so glad I (usually) haven’t missed the adventure of talking with people about my Lord.
There are also holy moments when I’m able to build up fellow believers:
When God reaches out through me to encourage, inspire, exhort, love.
“If you live gladly to make others glad in God, your life will be hard, your risks will be high, and your joy will be full,” writes pastor and theologian John Piper.
Yes, it can be hard to step out by faith each time you share the gospel or seek to minister to others. You never know how people will react. But indeed your joy will be full, because You are obeying God and His Word, and sometimes … you get to watch while He works the miracle of faith or growth in someone’s life.
So I’ll keep on obeying (though of course I’m still a work very much in progress), thanking Him for the holy moments and for the holy years.
I thank Him especially for learning how to love — and how not to love — His gifts of a life partner beyond my ability to dream, incredible children and extended family, dear brothers and sisters in Christ, and all people who still need Jesus.
Yes, there have been trials, rebellion on my part, and incursions of the enemy in my walk of faith. But through them I have learned more of God’s strengthening grace, long forbearance and overcoming power.
Who are we, Lord, that You have shown us such kindness? You’ve invited us along on this adventure of building the kingdom with You…until that supreme moment when we see You face to face.
It’s a rich, risky, joy-full life — what a God!
So if you’re waiting outside, come on in! Jesus, who died for you, is worthy of your trust and all your life.
And if you’re a believer and want to experience more of God’s fullness and power, don’t wait to find a church or more mature follower of Jesus who can help you grow. What grace it will be for you and all the people you will help to bring along with you to heaven.
What a life and what a future. See you there!
The Nearness of God 