I was raised in a wonderful christian home. I went to, and graduated from a christian school. I attended two years of a Bible college. My life was uneventful and good. I didn't smoke, I didn't drink, I was saving myself for my future husband. I didn't cuss. I didn't hang out with anyone that did any of those things. It all went wrong when I made the choice to leave college and move back home.
I was always proud of the fact that I had a good testimony. I could be a good example for my sisters and any other young girls watching me. Then I decided now that I was my own adult woman I could make my own choices. I made all the wrong ones.
I can now say (not pridefully mind you) I know what a cigarette tastes like. I know what what alcohol feels like as it gets into your body. I know the shame of very wrong choices. I have seen the disappointed faces looking back at me. I have felt uncomfortable as people have judged me for my tattoo. I've put myself in situations that could have ended a whole lot differently. I have made some unwise and sinful choices in my life, BUT...
I know what God's saving grace feels like. I have experienced His overwhelming forgiveness. I have been restored as a child of God and heir to heaven. I am able to lift my hands and praise God unashamedly. I can (even though I would have rathered a different way) let others young woman know I've been there and assure them its not worth it. Those certain choice are not the answer and will only bring remorse and shame. I can show those young woman (and men) who have already made those choices that God is ready to forgive, save, and start fresh with you. He doesn't care what you've done, just what you are going to do now.
I thank God for not giving up on me. I am so thankful that I had so many people praying for me. I'm thankful for the family I was raised in and the church that established my faith in God. Reminds me of the verse that says "I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase." (I Corinthians 3:6).
It's been a long journey (that's nowhere near over) but I'm thankful for every day, every step, and every chance to serve God with my whole heart.
