I grew up in a family that believed in God and Christ. I asked Jesus into my life at age 6. I was brought to church until the 4th grade. From there, I wasn’t guided spiritually and went off on my own path.
During this time, I didn’t stop talking to God. I just didn’t get quiet to listen to Him. I encountered a tragedy at age 12 and rather than turning to God, I turned to friends and boys. At 14 I went through another life changing experience being violated which left me feeling worthless and feeling I needed to take complete control of my life. Unfortunately at 14, I really didn’t know how to do that. As a result, I turned to unhealthy and risky lifestyle choices that just caused me more harm as time went on. I was depressed and just wanted God to take me.
All the while, I felt this still, calm, quiet voice in my heart calling me. Nothing audible. I believe in my heart someone must have been praying for me. I can’t quite explain it, but I knew God was calling me back to Him. At about 17 years old, I decided I was done trying to do things my own way and I needed God to direct me.
Some people hit rock bottom before they realize they need something bigger than them in their life. I was pretty close and remembered God from those early seeds that were planted in my life. I believe those seeds were watered by someone’s prayers and then fed by the Word when I decided to read it. God hadn’t left me, rather, I left Him. He was there with His mighty hand extended to me the whole time, just waiting for me to reach out to grab it.
I really believe when we pray for someone God hears us. I believe too, when your prayer is that someone will accept Christ’s gift of salvation, God will give them every opportunity to choose Him. It is ultimately their choice. When I needed the Lord, I couldn’t deny the tug on my heart from Him. Please don’t give up praying for that loved one. God really does hear your prayers and is working in ways you may not see.