Roy Behling   

GOD'S PROMPTING

Jesus said: "Whoever serves Me must follow Me; and where I am, my servant will also be. My Father will honor whoever serves Me." - John 12:26 (NIV)

Having been a Presbyterian elder for 49 years and having served perhaps half of those years as an active ruling elder on Session, I have had numerous occasions when I was asked to share my faith journey and /or statement of faith and my experience of accepting Christ as Lord and Savior. I have also heard the faith journey of hundreds of applicants for church membership or ordination. Many of these talked about dramatic experiences in their personal journeys; tears, laughter, strong renewal of faith, hope for the future and above all an immediate transformation in their lives.

I can honestly say that my experience was not as vivid or dramatic. I grew up in the church. My parents were very active in the church. From the time I was a toddler to this very day, I loved going to Sunday School, Youth Fellowship and church. From the time I sang "Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so" it was a process of growing in the faith and feeling God's call in my life. He continues to call and I continue to serve. I feel blessed to obey God's call. May you have a similar experience.

Dear Lord, I am grateful for the prompting of the Holy Spirit in my life and the many blessings You bestow on me as I follow You. In the name of our Lord and Savior, Amen.