My Redeemed Life

Before becoming a follower of the Messiah, I didn't know that I was dead in my trespasses and sins. I was once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slave to various passions and pleasures, passing my days in malice and envy, and hating others and being hated by others (Titus 3:3).

I did not know that I was in desperate need of salvation until I attended a funeral for my neighbor's father several years ago. When the pastor was making his salvation plea, it was like he was speaking directly to me. He asked the question, "If you were to die today where would you spend eternity?" I thought to myself that I would end up in hell. The Spirit convicted me to accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior.

That began a long journey with a lot of twists and turns trying to figure out what it really meant to live out this Christian life. I can't say that I've walked the road perfectly, but the Shepherd of my soul uses His rod and staff to keep me on the narrow road. Thank the Lord for His unfailing love!

As we walk this road, we need to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age. Jesus gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession and who are zealous for good works. In these last days, we need to focus our outlook on the blessed hope of Jesus' returning. We need to follow the example of the apostle Paul in anchoring our hope in God's unfailing character and the promise of eternal life.