I have practiced Christianity for as long as I can remember. As a child, I attended church services several times a week; bible study on Wednesdays, choir practice on Thursdays, youth night on Fridays, upper room prayer on Saturday mornings and services on Sunday. While I learned much about God during those years, I never really got to know Him.
In my adult years, I began seeking out other religions. I found an interest in the Eastern practices such as Hinduism and Buddhism. These religions introduced me to the art of meditation and the use of energy to control the world around me. I read several books and sought after spiritual leaders in that arena. During that time, I had renounced Christianity as my faith, and claimed to be a spiritualist. I dabbled in this for nearly two years before I returned to the Christian faith.
I wrestled with my spirituality and after much thought and prayer; I felt that I am my best as a Christian. Following the divine teachings of Jesus makes me a better person by forcing me to ask myself the tough questions; am I forgiving? Do I love my enemies? Do I love my neighbor as myself? By checking myself against these standards, I am able to seek Gods help in the areas where it matters the most.
Though I have built a solid relationship with God, I have also endured some struggles along the way. Being a true Christian requires some degree of sacrifice. I have restricted myself from certain types of entertainment, and have let a few friends go along the way. In return, I have less “worldly mind clutter” which allows me to hear God clearly, and make sound decisions without the constant influence of television and music.
Looking back at my childhood and the time I spent in church, I had to ask myself what went wrong. I found that I never took time to build a relationship with Christ as a child. I only attended services because I was expected to. During my conversion back to Christianity, I took time to pray and study the Bible more.
I am very thankful for all that God has allowed me to go through and now have a solid foundation in my faith. Though it seemed as though I was destined for a different path, my steps were all made in divine order.