Reaching For Higher Ground

At the beginning, my walk with Jesus was operating around ground level, but it wasn’t too long before I began reaching for higher ground. The Bible tell us in Romans 10: 9-10, that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead you will be saved.

What Happens After That?

Dedicating my life to Jesus was exciting and telling everyone about it (that would listen) felt wonderful. Not being able to hide my excitement was a powerful testimony, especially to unbelievers. I had received The Holy Spirit inside and it certainly showed, but I soon found that some, whom I thought of as friends and even a few relatives didn’t share my excitement. Some would avoid me; some apologize if I overheard them cursing or stop in the middle of a dirty joke if I came near. I didn’t know how to react to this new experience.

This, sort of “isolation” was wearing down my initial excitement and I slipped into a basic routine: Gain strength with my Christian family on Sunday, then during the week, go back into the world, witness, set a Christian example, and spread the Word as best I could, then repeat each week.

This seemed like pretty good Christian behavior to me and I was beginning to accept that this was how it was supposed to be. I had found my comfort zone, but I wouldn’t stay there. The Holy Spirit wasn’t going to allow me a comfort zone. Then came a sermon on “pew sitters”. Thankfully we didn’t have pews, so I knew I wasn’t one of those, well not exactly.

The Holy Spirit Moves

I know it was The Holy Spirit that made me uncomfortable while sitting in my comfort zone, but I remained in there anyway. I didn’t really see a problem until the uncomfortable feeling grew into anxiety. Still, there was plenty for me to feel anxious about. A close relative was extremely ill. There were work issues, health issues, and more family issues. I prayed daily concerning these things. It wasn’t until feeling about to burst that I finally cried out to God, “Lord please help me, tell me what you want me to do?”

God didn’t answer. I prayed and read the Word each night. I took long walks as I prayed for guidance, and then two things happened: First, my incredible friend and Pastor Bro. Bobby Brown told me (I always feel he is talking directly to me in his sermons) He said: “God seldom answers prayers how or when we expect, but he always answers”. (That was good information) Second, our Church offered me an opportunity to attend a Christian retreat called “Higher Ground”. It was three days on a mountain with 25 other men. There would be no phones or media. (oh no!)

Bang! Just like that, God answered my prayers. The things I learned, the guidance I recieved, and the testimonies I heard, lit up my life and changed my direction. “Higher Ground” is an amazing program. It’s an “experience” and to write about details would hinder that experience. After Higher Ground it took many days of reflecting and prayer before I began to realize God’s plan for me.

Where I’m Going

If you are reading this, you are on the journey with me. The Holy Spirit has lead me here to speak about what it’s like to become a Christian. I will open my heart and speak honestly about the speed bumps because if there are twelve speed bumps in the parking lot, I’ll hit them all. But the comfort and peace that Jesus gives me will shrink the speed bumps to the size of a mustard seed. Jesus tells us we will have tribulation in this world. I am not excused from hardships, but I will write about how Jesus helped me through. In Him we find peace. I’ll keep my eyes forward knowing the rewards of becoming a Christian are abundant and eternal life.

Serving God at ground level was not empty by any means. There were rewards, but I will admit missing the initial excitement of dedicating my life to the Lord. Simply waiting for an opportunity to offer testimony, witness, or give an occasional devotion in church was no longer enough for me. It took some time, prayer, effort, and guidance from a lot of friends who helped me tremendously along the way. I am thankful the Lord was patient and finally got my attention. We can all take this walk while continually reaching for higher ground!