Paul's Story

For much of my life, I felt like a child lost in a world not his own. I felt alone, with no purpose, and was consumed by uncertainty about my seemingly insignificant life. I grew into a very self-centered man, hesitant to recount the many mistakes I made along the way.  I developed many bad habits that I deeply regret, which not only impacted me but, more importantly, affected my sons and my wife.

My journey has been marked by a constant presence of adversity. My son endured extensive surgery to reconstruct his face, and a car crash nearly took my wife’s life. I have lost my sister, both my parents, and a brother-in-law to cancer. I am deeply familiar with the emotional, medical, and financial hardships that accompany such afflictions.

As an adult, I worked as an apprentice draftsman for a city public works department, where I met met wife. She became—and continues to be—my dearest friend and companion. Over the years, as the Lord worked on me, I came to see her as a blessing and great gift from Him.

One morning, while my 7-year-old son was doing his homework at the breakfast table, he was studying Gensis.  In my arrogance at the time, I challenged this little boy on his understanding of the text. To my astonishment, he clearly described God’s creation with tremendous passion and clarity. I was stunned. This moment marked the beginning of a 10-year journey that ultimately led to my salvation.

Often, only in hindsight do we see how God works through our circumstances. My childhood friend David, the last person I ever expected to become a believer, became my first formal pastor. I was fortunate to start my walk with Jesus surrounded by a community of believers. Subsequent pastors taught me how to pray, serve, and grow in Christ. With their encouragement,  I became involved in various ministries.

My wife and I are eternally grateful for every form of adversity that has shaped our lives for His good purpose. We are the beneficiaries of His many promises, most notably His forgiveness and salvation.

 I am thankful that God demonstrated His love for me in that,  while I was still a sinner, Christ died for me.

-Paul

Have you experienced God's transformative power  in your own life? We would love to hear your story! Your story—regardless of how spectacular or ordinary you might think it is—is a glimpse into God's character and could inspire and encourage others on their own spiritual journeys. Share how you've experienced  the life-changing love and grace of God today.