I just recently saw this video about a man that was diagnosed with Cancer, Zac Smith (Google "Zac Smith Cancer") left behind a video when doctors could no longer do anything for him. "Cancer is the best thing that has ever happened to me." Not something you hear very often, is it?" Despite it all, he never lost his faith. "God is still God, and God is still good."
My story is quite different from his, but I too can say that my Muscular Dystrophy is the best thing that has ever happened to me. It took me a very long time to believe and accept this, but my entire life has been a journey to come to this conclusion through my faith in God. When I was real young, I didn't want to die. It scared me terribly, as I'm sure it would to any 7 year old. I didn't understand for years. "What did I do?" "Why am I the one who has to go through this?" Meeting Jesus changed my outlook completely, making me realize my life, however short, is a very good one. I feel blessed and I thank God every single day.
But, a nagging feeling still remained. "Why?" "I could do so much more for God if only I was cured!" I was in love with a girl, but I knew she would never be my wife. I would never be a husband. I would never have a family. I could no longer speak, or have the strength to hug my family and friends. These thoughts plagued me. I wanted to experience these things so badly. Sure, Some moments I still do, but then I realize God decided to give me a better life. A life where I am never alone, a life where He is there every time I call out for Him, a life where He comforts me whenever I feel discouraged.
Would I still see the glory of God without my Muscular Dystrophy? Would I still have my unwavering, unbreakable faith in Him? Though I can't be certain, I don't believe so. God allows for things to happen in our lives, people we meet, experiences we go through, to test our faith. If you didn't go through the many tests and trials throughout your life, would you be the same person you are today? When I go through something tough in my life, and i turn to God, there is nothing I can not overcome. Satan can throw whatever he wants, because God is with me. It's like climbing a mountain, once I climb over my troubles, I can see God's beauty for miles upon miles. Because God is always with me. Everything that has happened in my life has shaped me into the man I am today. I love Jesus with all my heart, soul, and mind. I know true peace through him that I can not find anywhere else. Jesus suffered and died on the cross so that I could live. What other life could I possibly want? Yes, Muscular Dystrophy is the best thing that has ever happened to me.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The Light Which Saves us
There are days in this world where you are reminded just how beautiful this place can be. Looking outside at the sunshine and white sprawling clouds rolling by, the warmth and the expanse of sky around us. Truly the work of a loving creator. He gave us a gift, giving us life and the freedom to live it. It's times like these I am reminded that life is beautiful, and when you choose Him, life is everlasting.
We have been on this earth for thousands of years. Mankind has seen disaster, war, famine, plague, tyranny, and the despair that follows unspeakable evil. Yet, we are still here. The sky is still blue, the rain is still cool, and the beauty is still here if you know where to look. Many people over the years have broken down, thinking the end was upon them, and there was no hope to recover from such terrible things. In that moment of despair, a hand reaches down and picks mankind up and sets us back on our feet. The hand is one that is always there, provided the one in need knows where to look.
God uses us for purposes we don't quite understand. There are those who reject Him for that, only seeing the darkness of the world. History shows us that left alone, those people only lead themselves further into the dark. I've seen that darkness first hand. But when I trusted God to open my eyes, it was like a blinding light consuming the darkness and filling my soul. No matter how thick the darkness is coming after me, there is always a light bright enough to filter through.
That is how the Lord battles Satan and keeps his evils from penetrating our souls. When you trust Him, His protection never fails. No matter what comes at you, always remember the beauty of God and His work. It is our duty to share that beauty, and teach the lost to live again through our Lord, Jesus Christ. Unlike the darkness of Satan, the light of God knows no bounds. With Him, the beauty of life becomes everlasting.
We have been on this earth for thousands of years. Mankind has seen disaster, war, famine, plague, tyranny, and the despair that follows unspeakable evil. Yet, we are still here. The sky is still blue, the rain is still cool, and the beauty is still here if you know where to look. Many people over the years have broken down, thinking the end was upon them, and there was no hope to recover from such terrible things. In that moment of despair, a hand reaches down and picks mankind up and sets us back on our feet. The hand is one that is always there, provided the one in need knows where to look.
God uses us for purposes we don't quite understand. There are those who reject Him for that, only seeing the darkness of the world. History shows us that left alone, those people only lead themselves further into the dark. I've seen that darkness first hand. But when I trusted God to open my eyes, it was like a blinding light consuming the darkness and filling my soul. No matter how thick the darkness is coming after me, there is always a light bright enough to filter through.
That is how the Lord battles Satan and keeps his evils from penetrating our souls. When you trust Him, His protection never fails. No matter what comes at you, always remember the beauty of God and His work. It is our duty to share that beauty, and teach the lost to live again through our Lord, Jesus Christ. Unlike the darkness of Satan, the light of God knows no bounds. With Him, the beauty of life becomes everlasting.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Letter To A Sinner
What is most important in life? Safety and comfort? Happiness and enjoyment? A stable family? Financial Stability? Power and success? Status and Fame? Peace and Prosperity? Where does God and your relationship with Him rank? After important matters are concluded? When you have time? When it's appropriate?
As for myself, He ranks and always will be first in my life. But, I know it can be a long road, and for a lot of people, a road not often traveled. I was there once, believing in God, but always putting myself and the easy way first. It is so easy to prioritize affairs of the world as the most important things in life, whatever those things happen to be. You seem happy, you look happy, but are you really completely satisfied with life and happy with where you are at? When you ask yourself that last question honestly, you realize your not.
What if I told you that you could have everything you need in life, and the happiness to enjoy it? True happiness and peace that nothing could ever take away. Believing isn't enough, you need to embrace Him. God will give you everything you need, and the peace of mind that never leaves you. When the Lord becomes the focal point of your life, His strength becomes your shelter from hardship. Things that used to break you, just make you stronger.
Believe me, i know it isn't easy to break away from the hold the world has on you. The thing about being exposed to temptation and the sinful parts of human nature, it comes alive in you. Sin is Satan's weapon and his hold over you is strong. You rationalize your a good person and convince yourself into believing that is enough. Many see turning their life over to God as a great sacrifice to their personal fun and happiness, a common misconception aimed at steering you away. That couldn't be farther from the truth. Accepting Jesus and having that relationship with Him enriches your life, not limits it. You find yourself breaking the chains of sin that had such a hold over you. You make time for God, and He makes time for what you need. You fight the temptation of falling back into the sinful things of your past, and you find fun where you never expected. The list goes on and you wonder why it took you so long.
All it takes is, "Lord, I need you. I ask that you forgive me of my sins. I believe that you died on the cross to save me from my sins, and I ask that you guide and direct me to honor you. In Jesus name, amen." I address this to all sinners in need of God's forgiveness. I base this on my own experiences and I pray that it helps you. God loves you and has a purpose for you. The journey may not always be clear, but in the end, the Lord is always with you.
As for myself, He ranks and always will be first in my life. But, I know it can be a long road, and for a lot of people, a road not often traveled. I was there once, believing in God, but always putting myself and the easy way first. It is so easy to prioritize affairs of the world as the most important things in life, whatever those things happen to be. You seem happy, you look happy, but are you really completely satisfied with life and happy with where you are at? When you ask yourself that last question honestly, you realize your not.
What if I told you that you could have everything you need in life, and the happiness to enjoy it? True happiness and peace that nothing could ever take away. Believing isn't enough, you need to embrace Him. God will give you everything you need, and the peace of mind that never leaves you. When the Lord becomes the focal point of your life, His strength becomes your shelter from hardship. Things that used to break you, just make you stronger.
Believe me, i know it isn't easy to break away from the hold the world has on you. The thing about being exposed to temptation and the sinful parts of human nature, it comes alive in you. Sin is Satan's weapon and his hold over you is strong. You rationalize your a good person and convince yourself into believing that is enough. Many see turning their life over to God as a great sacrifice to their personal fun and happiness, a common misconception aimed at steering you away. That couldn't be farther from the truth. Accepting Jesus and having that relationship with Him enriches your life, not limits it. You find yourself breaking the chains of sin that had such a hold over you. You make time for God, and He makes time for what you need. You fight the temptation of falling back into the sinful things of your past, and you find fun where you never expected. The list goes on and you wonder why it took you so long.
All it takes is, "Lord, I need you. I ask that you forgive me of my sins. I believe that you died on the cross to save me from my sins, and I ask that you guide and direct me to honor you. In Jesus name, amen." I address this to all sinners in need of God's forgiveness. I base this on my own experiences and I pray that it helps you. God loves you and has a purpose for you. The journey may not always be clear, but in the end, the Lord is always with you.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
An Unwavering Spirit
There are a lot of things I see on the news and Internet, bad things happening that I am powerless to stop. People with opinions different from mine, blind to doing the right thing. And I think, my words of anger will not solve anything. So I stop, calm myself, and pray for their souls. In a lot of situations, that is a very good idea. But there are times to speak up and give a voice to matters that need brought to attention. The power of prayer should never be underestimated.
I'm sure a lot of you have heard of the attempted assassination of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords that almost took her life and killed six other people. It doesn't matter what party she belongs to or what political views she has, there is nothing that could ever defend attempting to take her life. I'm calling for prayers for her recovery, her family, and the families of the six victims killed that day. Innocent human beings, and fellow citizens of our country.
What is more distressing lately about this situation are the actions of Fred Phelps and his Westboro Baptist Church. I do not like calling it a baptist church because our Lord should not be associated with a hate group. They have made a name for themselves for protesting the funerals of soldiers, victims of AIDS, and homosexuals. They also claim that the shooter was sent by God, and plan to protest at the funeral of a nine year old girl killed during the shooting. I just can't comprehend the hate it takes to say and do such things. I wasn't raised that way, and the day I truly accepted Jesus, my heart wasn't designed that way. The fact that they believe they are Christians doing God's work both angers and saddens me. Their hateful message harms God's work as if they denied Him altogether. The way they interpret hate from the message of love throughout the Bible convinces me that they do not know Jesus, and therefore deny Him with every picket sign.
That is why prayers are desperately needed for everyone involved. The true message of our Lord, love and compassion needs to be shown with the unwavering dedication found inside our hearts. Only the Holy Spirit has a chance to battle hate and drive it from a soul. I ask that every one of you reading this to pray for everyone involved in this tragic situation, and that it be resolved in a peaceful manner. Too much violence and hate has already suffocated the Arizona community. It is our duty to come together and breathe the life back in.
I'm sure a lot of you have heard of the attempted assassination of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords that almost took her life and killed six other people. It doesn't matter what party she belongs to or what political views she has, there is nothing that could ever defend attempting to take her life. I'm calling for prayers for her recovery, her family, and the families of the six victims killed that day. Innocent human beings, and fellow citizens of our country.
What is more distressing lately about this situation are the actions of Fred Phelps and his Westboro Baptist Church. I do not like calling it a baptist church because our Lord should not be associated with a hate group. They have made a name for themselves for protesting the funerals of soldiers, victims of AIDS, and homosexuals. They also claim that the shooter was sent by God, and plan to protest at the funeral of a nine year old girl killed during the shooting. I just can't comprehend the hate it takes to say and do such things. I wasn't raised that way, and the day I truly accepted Jesus, my heart wasn't designed that way. The fact that they believe they are Christians doing God's work both angers and saddens me. Their hateful message harms God's work as if they denied Him altogether. The way they interpret hate from the message of love throughout the Bible convinces me that they do not know Jesus, and therefore deny Him with every picket sign.
That is why prayers are desperately needed for everyone involved. The true message of our Lord, love and compassion needs to be shown with the unwavering dedication found inside our hearts. Only the Holy Spirit has a chance to battle hate and drive it from a soul. I ask that every one of you reading this to pray for everyone involved in this tragic situation, and that it be resolved in a peaceful manner. Too much violence and hate has already suffocated the Arizona community. It is our duty to come together and breathe the life back in.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
My Sunday Testimony
I wrote this testimony to be read at Richfield Church of the Nazarene's December 26th Sunday service. It was a very special day because it had been my only visit in four years, and most likely my last. Swartz Ambulance Service volunteered to transport me for free, making it a real miracle. I sat in the sanctuary after the service when the lights went dark. Jesus was there. I felt His surge of power and saw the beauty of the large illuminated cross behind the alter. Tears came to my eyes, because there is nothing on this earth that could ever be more powerful than that moment.
The last time I was here in church, I had no idea what would come to pass the following week. I was feeling sick, so I stayed home. Hours later, I was passing out. Waking up after that operation that saved my life, I fell into quite the depression. I couldn't move, and found out I would never regain the strength I had lost. Months, almost a year went by and I had to accept that I would be confined to a bed. I would not be able to attend church, or travel anywhere. People tell me they would not be able to handle what I have gone through. For awhile there, I did not handle it well. I made an effort to look strong on the outside, but inside, I was craving a deeper purpose in life beyond just surviving. On the recommendation of a few people, I started this blog. By inspiring and reaching out to others about Jesus Christ, I found a newfound strength to keep going. That I was finally making a difference.
Why does God allow so much suffering? It's a topic that isn't easy to explain. There are times when I just have to ask, "Why?" Not everything is made known to us. We don't know God's master plan, We wouldn't even be able to comprehend it.
God does not wish us ill, He does not enjoy seeing us in pain, or dealing with hardship in our lives. Satan is the one to blame for that. God has complete control over everything, that is true. God may step back and allow Satan to throw his stones, but God does not supply the slingshot. He knows how much we can handle, and how much we can't. God knows us deep down more than we know ourselves.
When I think back to the time where my existence was on the drawing board, I think of this. God knew I would love Him heart, mind, and soul. He was so sure, He said to Satan, "Okay, give him Muscular Dystrophy. You may have control of his body, but I will always have his soul." Satan took the challenge, and I can say with absolute certainty that he failed miserably. I will admit there were times when Satan was probably feeling pretty good about himself, but once the Lord was in my corner, he never stood a chance.
Considering all the hardships that come with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, I do not believe it is a curse. In many ways, it has made me stronger. I would not be who I am without this condition. God knows it hasn't been easy for me, but I know this life is not my last. Knowing that is what gets me through, what keeps me going. My biggest hope is that my condition will show others how faith in God can help them overcome the toughest of battles they may face in life.
I am very thankful of all the special people in my life, and those who have made this church visit possible. This may be my last chance to attend, and I'm very grateful for the opportunity.
The last time I was here in church, I had no idea what would come to pass the following week. I was feeling sick, so I stayed home. Hours later, I was passing out. Waking up after that operation that saved my life, I fell into quite the depression. I couldn't move, and found out I would never regain the strength I had lost. Months, almost a year went by and I had to accept that I would be confined to a bed. I would not be able to attend church, or travel anywhere. People tell me they would not be able to handle what I have gone through. For awhile there, I did not handle it well. I made an effort to look strong on the outside, but inside, I was craving a deeper purpose in life beyond just surviving. On the recommendation of a few people, I started this blog. By inspiring and reaching out to others about Jesus Christ, I found a newfound strength to keep going. That I was finally making a difference.
Why does God allow so much suffering? It's a topic that isn't easy to explain. There are times when I just have to ask, "Why?" Not everything is made known to us. We don't know God's master plan, We wouldn't even be able to comprehend it.
God does not wish us ill, He does not enjoy seeing us in pain, or dealing with hardship in our lives. Satan is the one to blame for that. God has complete control over everything, that is true. God may step back and allow Satan to throw his stones, but God does not supply the slingshot. He knows how much we can handle, and how much we can't. God knows us deep down more than we know ourselves.
When I think back to the time where my existence was on the drawing board, I think of this. God knew I would love Him heart, mind, and soul. He was so sure, He said to Satan, "Okay, give him Muscular Dystrophy. You may have control of his body, but I will always have his soul." Satan took the challenge, and I can say with absolute certainty that he failed miserably. I will admit there were times when Satan was probably feeling pretty good about himself, but once the Lord was in my corner, he never stood a chance.
Considering all the hardships that come with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, I do not believe it is a curse. In many ways, it has made me stronger. I would not be who I am without this condition. God knows it hasn't been easy for me, but I know this life is not my last. Knowing that is what gets me through, what keeps me going. My biggest hope is that my condition will show others how faith in God can help them overcome the toughest of battles they may face in life.
I am very thankful of all the special people in my life, and those who have made this church visit possible. This may be my last chance to attend, and I'm very grateful for the opportunity.
Monday, December 13, 2010
What Keeps Me Going
One of the most asked questions asked by non believers is, If God is so loving, why does He allow so much suffering? It's a topic that isn't easy to teach. Even Christians wonder from time to time, I know I have. There are times when I just have to ask, "Why?" Not everything is made known to us. We don't know God's master plan. Even if He came down and told us, we wouldn't even be able to comprehend the magnitude of His plan.
God does not wish us ill, He does not enjoy seeing us in pain, or dealing with hardship until we break. You will need to look down if you want to see who is responsible for that. God has complete control over everything, that is true. God may step back and allow Satan to throw his stones, but do not think for one second that God supplies the slingshot. He knows how much we can handle, and how much we can't. God knows us deep down better than we know ourselves. After all, He did create every one of us.
When I think back to the time when my existence was on the drawing board, I think of this. God knew I would love Him heart, mind, and soul. He was so sure, He said to Satan, "Okay, give him Muscular Dystrophy. You may have control of his body, but I will always have his soul." Satan took the challenge, and I can say with absolute certainty he failed miserably. I will admit there were times when Satan was probably feeling pretty good about himself, but once the Lord was in my corner, he never stood a chance.
Considering all the hardships that come with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, I do not believe it is a curse. In many ways, it has made me stronger. I would not be who I am without having this disease. God knows it hasn't been easy for me, but I know this life is not my last. Knowing that is what gets me through, what keeps me going.
God does not wish us ill, He does not enjoy seeing us in pain, or dealing with hardship until we break. You will need to look down if you want to see who is responsible for that. God has complete control over everything, that is true. God may step back and allow Satan to throw his stones, but do not think for one second that God supplies the slingshot. He knows how much we can handle, and how much we can't. God knows us deep down better than we know ourselves. After all, He did create every one of us.
When I think back to the time when my existence was on the drawing board, I think of this. God knew I would love Him heart, mind, and soul. He was so sure, He said to Satan, "Okay, give him Muscular Dystrophy. You may have control of his body, but I will always have his soul." Satan took the challenge, and I can say with absolute certainty he failed miserably. I will admit there were times when Satan was probably feeling pretty good about himself, but once the Lord was in my corner, he never stood a chance.
Considering all the hardships that come with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, I do not believe it is a curse. In many ways, it has made me stronger. I would not be who I am without having this disease. God knows it hasn't been easy for me, but I know this life is not my last. Knowing that is what gets me through, what keeps me going.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Never Give Up
I have to tell you, there has never been a time in my life where I have been this discouraged about the world around me. Every time I turn on a news broadcast or open a news web page, I am greeted with the worst of our civilization. It's depressing, and so easy to feel hopeless, like nothing I will ever do will change anything. Like no one has any hope of righting the course that our country, and the world, has been sent down.
Then, I find myself thinking, why bother wasting my time? One day, I will be in a place where none of it will matter anymore. I'll be in Heaven and finially know peace. But, that kind of thinking is dangerous, and it sure isn't the kind of attitude God teaches us to have. Giving up on doing good and making a difference is the worst kind of message you can send. When people no longer care about each other and living their lives by example, evil develops and grows like a wildfire.
What do you think would happen if everyone gave up and conceded that the world is going to chaos no matter they do? The world would be a much more terrible place. I will tell you this, I believe the work we do now as Christians is more important than ever. As long as we don't give up and keep following God's will, the Lord will shine through us and into others. Even if you lead only one person to Jesus, that is one more person in this world loving the Lord, and that is something that will really make a difference, both to that person, and the lives they will change with Jesus shining through them. You never know just how many lives you might influence by never giving up on spreading God's Word.
Then, I find myself thinking, why bother wasting my time? One day, I will be in a place where none of it will matter anymore. I'll be in Heaven and finially know peace. But, that kind of thinking is dangerous, and it sure isn't the kind of attitude God teaches us to have. Giving up on doing good and making a difference is the worst kind of message you can send. When people no longer care about each other and living their lives by example, evil develops and grows like a wildfire.
What do you think would happen if everyone gave up and conceded that the world is going to chaos no matter they do? The world would be a much more terrible place. I will tell you this, I believe the work we do now as Christians is more important than ever. As long as we don't give up and keep following God's will, the Lord will shine through us and into others. Even if you lead only one person to Jesus, that is one more person in this world loving the Lord, and that is something that will really make a difference, both to that person, and the lives they will change with Jesus shining through them. You never know just how many lives you might influence by never giving up on spreading God's Word.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
