When I was about 15 years old, I was camping at the beach with my friend when we were invited by some believer to their campfire for dessert. Being hungry we went and had a great time playing games. They also sang worship songs and gave testimony before we left. When I went back to the tent I was not converted but I was convicted and changed. From that night I never blasphemed again. It was a permanent instant change in my heart, but most times change is not that instant. Most recovery and restoration takes place through a crisis and a process. Jesus changes our lives but although sometimes it is instant, mostly it happens over a long time. We need crisis; the altar call, the powerful laying on of hands, experiences of the Holy Spirit but we also need the process; perhaps the introduction of many new disciplines or habits like reading, worship and prayer. My most important crises were complete surrender to God. To follow Him whatever that meant. After 30 years I can say I never dreamed of the fulfilment and joy I’d receive from following Him.

Friend, I have loved the encounters I have had with Him on occasions but it is the daily surrender and seeking Him in order to hear and obey that has been the most important thing to my growth.