TESTIMONY
By Kathy Shipley
I believe that God rescued me. I believe that He prepared my heart and removed the scales from my eyes. He planted in my heart an incredible hunger to know him, and then showered me with his love and realness in my life.
As Tony and I were on a walk one fall day we discussed some things that had been taught in the LDS church that just didn't seem right. We talked a great deal. The next day I went to the Library with an open mind. The truth can bear study became my apology. The truth is a big deal to me. My father's favorite phrase was, "Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free." It seems odd that I would feel guilty about studying out the history of the LDS church but I did. I think God was scooting me forward. I did not know the direction God would lead me. The masons, the polygamy, and the magic arts at the groundwork of Smith's life and ministry truly shook my faith in him as my source of truth.
On Christmas Eve Tony and I went to Bethany Community Church. I offered myself as a gift to God for Christmas. I said to him in my heart, "I will follow no matter what." In actuality that was the Christmas that I received the greatest gift from God. Jesus came into my heart.
This was the beginning of my wonderful journey coming to know and worship God and develop a confidence in the Bible. The Bible became my new source of truth. My sacred source of truth about God.
Acts 17:11 "These (the Bereans) were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so."
I began studying the Bible very diligently to see if what I was being taught was true. I marveled at scriptures I had never noticed before. I found that the words of Jesus meant a great deal more to me than they used to.
Luke 24:45 "Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures"
It's difficult to describe, but the scripture became like food to me, tasteful and satisfying. As I presented questions, friends in this church directed me back to the scriptures for answers. As the answers fit so well, my confidence in the Word of God started growing like a young delicate plant that is growing into a strong sturdy one. I came with a hesitant faith and my faith has been grounded because Jesus Christ, his life, and his message are a sure foundation.
I have developed a confidence that my salvation is by faith in Jesus Christ. I know that I cannot in my own ability become worthy of eternal life and presence with God. I rejoice that His blood can cover my sins. That he gave his life for me so that I can be covered in his righteousness and have eternal life. I humbly and joyfully accept this gift to me.
I sing out with my heart like David in Psalm 9:1-2 "I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you. I will sing praise to your name, O most High."
My favorite scripture is II Thessalonians 3:16 "Now the Lord of Peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all."
As Jesus is the Lord of Peace I encourage you to seek Him and receive that peace, receive life eternal, and all of the gifts God wants to give you.
Love, Kathy
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