I'm not a scholar, I never went to college. I was not raised going to church. I went some when I was in high school, but I was not allowed to be "me". I had to dress a certain way, act a certain way. I was also not taught anything. All I knew was that there is a God, he had a son Jesus, He loves you and don't sin. That's about it. So I have never really been spiritual.But, I am a musician. Musicians feel things (movement in music). I have always felt that there was someone that I always talked to. It just sat in the back of my mind. Around 2000, I met this amazing woman, who took the time to read the Bible with me, and answer questions. So I was saved at that point, well kinda. In the fall of 2004, when I was going through a divorce, He got my attention again. I admit that I believe. I have my reasons, way too many to put here. He has given me grace to deal with people, humbled me, and "given" me a new ministry opportunity. He has given me new life, and new relationships. Still curious about my story? Just ask, I will be happy to tell you.
Now here's a good one. I have been through divorce. It is an ugly thing, no matter what side you are on. Everyone is affected. I do not condone it, or condemn it. God does for sure. Divorce is an institution that man has created as a way out of marriage (which God created). Now you may ask, aren't you a hypocrite? You are divorced, and you believe in God?" True, but here is the thing.... God does not interfere with "free will" which He has given all of us. He will talk to you, and try to direct you. In my divorce, I turned to Him, many times, and I did everything He asked. It then came time that HE released me, so He, Himself could work on the other person. Relationships require BOTH parties to work on things. Man can not "force" a person to stay in a marriage if they want out. But, from a spiritual point of view, there will be consequences. Just remember that.
Forgiveness. Big one. I definatley have experience with forgiveness. At one point I was angry at someone who had hurt me. I wanted revenge. At that point I was told by a wise man (with God behind him) "What right do you have to with hold forgiveness from someone, when you are granted forgiveness for your sins?" How true is this? To get revenge, the rolls would need to get reversed. That would not happen. Forgiveness comes from God. If you ask, He will grant forgiveness. But that is not just for others, most people do not realize that forgiveness also includes asking forgivenessfor your own sins and failures. God will help you with that as well.