HOW TO LIVE A LIFE FULL OF EXCITEMENT AND FUN IN GOD

This testimony was written online at http://www.5clicks.com/

After graduation I could not pursue higher studies in Bombay because the marks scored was less. The jobs available were scarce and paid peanuts. I needed easy money to support my habits of gambling, chain smoking and boozing. Illegal business was the only answer, but the money I got was easy come and easy go. I lived in uncertainty and fear of the law and avoided church because my life was not right and often hid myself with guilt when I saw some people from the church. 3 years past college, the satisfaction I got from my habits was diminishing. It was becoming increasingly boring and difficult to pass my time. I tried watching movies and reading the bible but got no help from it.

The scriptures that brought life some years ago meant nothing anymore. This disturbed me even more. I lost all sense of purpose and direction and my life was without meaning. I tried helping out at an orphanage during the afternoon but it did not help although it brought some temporary relief. I earnestly prayed God to deliver me from my predicament and to show me a way out. After 5 months I had forgotten about it because financially I happened to be doing very well for some time. At this point I decided to move to another country in pursuit of a job and a change of environment because I didn't think I would have any chance for change if I continued to keep the company I had.

I moved to Dubai and went to a church with my dad. Not having anything to do the whole day, I read the bible and watched TV. I attended all the prayer meetings and night vigils. God was convicting me of sin and drawing me close to him, he helped me repent for my sins. I was touched by the lives of the church members and the way they treated me with love, but impacted most by words from the bible e.g. "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all things will be added to you" and "faith comes by hearing the word of God". The word of God came leaping alive and gave me hope every time I read it.

Before I used to feel suffocated and bound, very insecure and worried about my future and the way I was conducting my life. I did not handle money wisely and always was short of it. After I received Christ as my personal savior I realized freedom from sinful nature, became confident and found hope and faith in God. God answered all my prayers; I got a wonderful job and began working very hard. There was no time for bad habits anymore. I use to think I had decided to follow Jesus, I realized God first loved me and he had drawn me to himself.

20 years back I used to visit aged homes, slums, orphanages, hospitals, homes of grass root level people in villages. I trained many to do the same, it is not these works of righteousness which I have done, but according to his unending mercy he saved me by paying the price for my sins on the cross of Calvary. I understood the implications of the new life I had in Jesus. Then I was water baptized and later completed the foundation course and committed my life to the local church. Jesus died to pay for my sins because I am special to him. I am the apple of his eye, there is no doubt about it.

I was shy but gradually began to fellowship, not hiding anymore. Helping the serving team in moving the musical equipment, placing the chairs, ushering, serving refreshments etc. One year later I received the gift of tongues after the lying of hands and prayer. I began to participate in prayer and worship and desired God to use me for his glory. Then the Holy Spirit baptized me and there was more change in my life. As I began witnessing to people and laying hands on the sick the need to study Gods word grew, and also a burden to share with others the reason for which I have faith and hope in Jesus. I reckon and know Jesus touched me graciously.

||| PHOTO WITH JULIET |||

My first personal bible study was on bible references related to miracles, healing, prayer etc. Then I purchased books and videos on the subject to learn more. I managed to encourage many to visit the prisons and hospitals. I lead a small cell church that meets 2 times a week and love to study the word and encourage others to service and leadership. My vision and commitment is to plant one more cell church in my area. I continue to go through many trials in life but I can draw strength form the fact and truth that God is on my side. I don't have to struggle alone. In the past 10 years of my walk with the Lord I have stumbled a number of times. But God has lifted me up by his grace and mercy. If you have any problems you can receive liberty from them. Just go to God and He will direct your path. You can do all things through Christ who sustains you and me. To God be the Glory.

LOVE TO YOU THROUGH THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

SEBY VAL FERNANDES