Are you lost? Searching? I was, but maybe my experience can help you make sense of your own situation. About me
Im not someone who is easily convinced about anything and am of the philosophy if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. So first, let me give you a little information about myself. I am in my forties, married with one child. I am employed as a Fire-Captain/Paramedic in a suburb of Chicago. I have been on the job for about 26 years. I tell you this because I think I am a pretty average normal guy and have at least been around the block once or twice I hope! Eight years ago, if I would have heard someone say they were saved I would have thought they were some kind of religious freak. So, bear with me! If you have found this article, I now truly believe there is a greater reason you are reading it.
Who did I write this article for? Well . . .
First, if you are a bible scholar, then I am sure you will soon be painfully aware that you are not reading an article that measures up to your caliber. I am writing this for people who, maybe like I did, feel lost or feel as though something is missing in their lives. Also possibly, for the new believer whos life has been affected or changed in such a way that they feel compelled to investigate this new conviction and need some direction.
This article isnt for . . .
As I stated earlier, it is neither for the bible scholar nor for the debater or my faith is better than your faith person. I am an average Joe and offer this only for those people who find themselves in a situation similar to mine - 8 years ago. I am only equipped to defend my own position and beliefs. This is my personal story plus some helpful (I hope) advice So now is the time to turn back if you think reading this will be too painful!
My Story
One morning, about 8 years ago, while I was driving to work, I was going through my usual routine of trying either to find a good morning talk radio show or music station with a song I wanted to hear. I came to a busy intersection and had to make a left turn into traffic to proceed on my route. Just before I made the turn, I pressed the scan button on my radio and it landed on a religious station. I remember thinking Oh Brother, and that as soon as I make this turn Im going to turn this nonsense off! But, something the guy who was talking said, caught my attention and I felt compelled to leave it on. The person who was speaking was Pastor Greg Laurie. I remember thinking this guy is pretty funny and also thinking most of what he was saying really seemed to make sense.