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As long as I can remember, I've considered myself a Christian. I grew up going to church, Sunday School, and DVBS, believing in God, Jesus, and the Bible, saying prayers, and I was baptized. Although often failing, I tried to be good and do what was right. I sincerely wanted to follow Jesus and go to Heaven, but I do not recall having assurance of salvation.
As years went by I gradually became more influenced by and interested in the wisdom of this world. Mixing together some of God's truth and some of Satan's lies, I was creating my own truth and my own god. Deceived and self-righteous, I did not realize I was rebelling against God. I became more wise in my own eyes and got into a relationship with a separated man. We lived common-law for seven years, until his divorce came through, and then we got married. Down deep in my heart I didn't want to do what I was doing, but deluded, proud, denying, and rationalizing I repressed my feelings of guilt.
Praise God, He was still at work and I'm sure someone was praying. God miraculously led us to a Bible-believing, gospel-preaching church where we both responded to an altar call. My husband was zealous for the Lord at first.
I still lacked assurance that my sins were forgiven. But after hearing and hearing the gospel the veil was finally lifted, and I knew Jesus died and shed His blood for a sinner such as I, and for the forgiveness of my sins. I took Jesus at His word. There was nothing I could do for my own salvation, it is a gift of God. Jesus paid it all. Amazing Grace! The Bible became a living Word. I became a new creation and my mind was being renewed.. Peace and Joy.
After ten years of marriage my husband left me for another woman. I was rejected, but God is faithful and saw me through a difficult time. He answered my prayer that I would not become bitter. God isn't finished with me yet – there is still much work in progress. May I be faithful to my Lord and Saviour who did so much for me. Praise the name of Jesus! Thanks be to God!
- Hertha Wiens
[Ed. Hertha volunteered just as we were in great need of correctors. We are thankful for her dedication].
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