Discovering Redemption: A Journey from Depression to Faith

It was 40 years ago, when I found myself battling with years of depression. At 35, I felt I couldn't continue living another day. In my despair, I turned to God for help through prayer. I remember the words I spoke:

"God, if you are real, please help me."

That moment marked the beginning of my journey towards redemption and faith. Today, I share my testimony to inspire and encourage anyone who might be going through similar struggles.

From Despair to Surrender

Surrendering one's life to Jesus Christ is a powerful act of faith. It's about confessing one's sins, repenting, turning away from them, and accepting Jesus Christ alone as Lord and Savior. This is not about mere intellectual assent; it's a deep, intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.

A journey towards faith might begin with reading the beginning of John 3:

“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3, ESV)

The process of being born again, baptized or anointed by the Holy Spirit, is a profound spiritual experience reserved for a select few. This anointing is unique to those chosen by God himself to serve as kings and priests alongside Jesus Christ. The number of these chosen ones is exactly 144,000, as stated in the Bible.

The Divine Selection

The selection began at Pentecost and continues down to this day. This group is described as follows:

“Then I looked, and behold, a Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000 who have his Father’s name written on their foreheads” (Revelation 14:1, ESV).

One key passage that emphasizes this selection is:

“For the Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Galatians 4:6-7, ESV)

These individuals are not only children of God but also joint heirs with Christ, destined to reign with him on Earth for a thousand years.

A Personal Story

My personal journey was marked by the realization that faith isn't just about surviving the trials of life but about finding true purpose and meaning. The selection of 144,000 does not imply a change in identity; rather, it recognizes those who have responded to God's call unequivocally.

Scripture supports this:

“‘And they sang a new song’; For You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation; and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth’” (Revelation 5:9-10, ESV)

This selection is not for the faint-hearted. It represents a commitment to live out one's faith fully, even in the face of adversity and suffering.

Scriptural Basis and Consideration

Providing scriptural basis for my comments is essential. The Bible does not challenge the belief but rather offers a clear path to redemption and eternal life. While not everyone might agree, it's important to present the information with objectivity, without imposing beliefs on others.

Ultimately, my testimony is a call to consider the profound impact of faith and the potential for a transformed life. Whether one believes in the 144,000 or not, the journey towards faith can bring genuine transformation and hope.

Further Reading and Reflection

For those interested in exploring this further, you might want to read:

Matt 16:24 - Deny yourselves and take up your cross and follow me John 3:3 - Unless one is born again, he cannot enter the kingdom of God Revelation 7:9-17 - The multitudes of those who were sealed

Reflect on your own journey and how faith might shape your life.