Share Your Story – Kim P.
January 5th, 2010 | 
Author: 
I was raised in the church by my father, a Methodist minister, and my mother. They were Godly parents who prayed and lived lives of faith. At thirteen, I asked Jesus into my heart. I believed in God’s rules and laws, but I loved Him from a distance.
After graduating college with a clinical degree in social work, I served children diagnosed as autistic or mentally ill. My husband Alan and I settled down and were led to Dogwood Church (then Braelinn). Eventually, I left work to be home with our children, Emily & Elijah.
After ten years of marriage, two children, and a career that had left me with more questions than peace, I ached on the inside. Being a counselor, I tried some self-help techniques, which proved useless. I thought I was living the typical Christian life, but I felt so separated from God and empty.
He was there; I just did not feel it.
I called out to God in prayer. He began to show me how the scriptures were personal to my life. Increasingly, I could feel Him pouring out His love for me in Christ Jesus. I longed to be closer to Him, to be like Him.
I actually craved Him.
As He began to bring me into a closer relationship with Himself, gloriously, my sin was revealed. My selfishness and pride were interfering with my ability to have an intimate relationship with Him and others. I realized that I was not the person, wife, or mother I wanted to be.
He continued to point out selfishness that I did not recognize or had excused. It was painful, but I was grateful to breathe fresh air. Through the storm, I could hear Him whisper, “Let it go. I have something much better.”
Gradually, I began to change. My family began to change. By His grace we now have a new life and new hope. And a wonderful love for Jesus that is no longer distant but up close and personal.
Call to me and I will answer you,
and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.
Jeremiah 33:3 (ESV)
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Posted in Personal testimony
Thank you for sharing your story, Kim. Having a very similar background, I can totally relate. Isn’t it wonderful to finally find that peace he so graciously offers through our relationship with him. I love him more each day.
“Craved Him” – an excellent expression to describe the deep longing that can only be satisfied One Way. Many know about Him but don’t really know Him. I believe you not only know Him, but know Him well. And that relationship is truly life changing. Thank you, Kim, for telling about your faith journey.
Great job sharing your story Kim! I love how you described that it was painful but that you were grateful to breathe fresh air…YES! What a perfect description of how God restores us back to Him. I know that your story is going to resonate with so many women…it resonates with me. Thank you for sharing!
Kim,
I appreciate you sharing your testimony. It’s not always easy to share our stuggles in life with others but when we do God always shows His faithfullness that we don’t walk this journey alone. Your life story is very encourageing! Thank you and God Bless you and your family.