My Testimony

by Roger S Nelson

It was on February 25, 1961, a Saturday, a cold Saturday and I was ice fishing on a lake in Springfield Township in Oakland County where I lived when I was 13.  A man whom I had never met before happened to be in the shanty.  I think his name was Walter Graves, and he told me how the Lord saved him from alcohol.  I had no experience with drugs or alcohol, so I had no way of knowing this guy was probably drinking all the time he was telling me - I believed him.  He also told me how God loved me and sent his son, Jesus, to die for my sins, and all I had to do was ask Jesus to save me and he would.  So I did, and I really meant it.  Did I understand what I was doing? Only a little, but it was enough.  An adult would have had many questions and maybe would not have done it, but Jesus said a person must become as a little child to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.  I remember the tears and the joy and it was a real experience.  I went to the Andersonville Community Church the next morning and confessed acceptance of Christ before the congregation.

    That was over 40 years ago, and I can honestly say that I have not regretted that decision, I have been a happier person because of it.  There are still questions at times, I don't think anyone this side of eternity will get them all answered, but my faith has grown and I have been blessed.  I still have problems, I have not grown rich, I still make mistakes and sometimes do wrong.  I will still die someday, but I have peace and joy, and I know my sins are forgiven and that someday I will enter into Heaven.  Death holds no fear over me.  I live life unafraid and if I were to die today, I am ready. God is good.