Conversion Experience

A friend says God hits her up the side of the head with a 2×4 to get her attention. Sometimes God comes in a blinding flash of light, as happened to Saul on the Damascus road. Other times God comes more quietly in “a still small voice.” (1 Kings 19:12 King James Version)

When have you felt close to God? For some it’s a dramatic experience, a complete turning around of life. For others, faith has always been important, even since childhood. God has always been there.

Many of us have a mixture of experiences. Sunday school and church were important to me from age five. God was part of my life. Nevertheless, I’ve also had occasions when God became especially real to me. My confirmation stands out as a spiritual high point.

A sermon at a youth rally pointed me strongly toward the ministry. During university, however, God seemed increasingly distant to me. I called myself an agnostic. But one lonely night I felt the amazing presence of God in a bright pillar of light. My faith felt stronger than in years, and I was soon enrolled in seminary.

How is God speaking to you today? What conversion experience have you had?

Lord, I believe. Help thou my unbelief. Amen. — JRG