The Gospel In Me: March 29, 2015

Before every baptism we have the privilege to hear stories of how God has saved people in our church and community through the gospel. In order to encourage one another, we will be posting these “gospel stories” after each baptism!
Emily Brizendine (6th Grade) 
I’ve grown up in church m whole life, so I knew that God was real and that He loved me (you know, because of the song, “Jesus Loves Me”), but I never really understood it. It’s taken me awhile to realize I can rely on God. I thought the only person that could keep me safe was my dad that my mom was the only person who could comfort me. Even though I would still like them to do those things, I realize that God is the one giving them the strength to do so and that God will take care of me too.
My life has been pretty  good. I’ve been just going along, enjoying my family, my toys, and my life. I prayed every night, read my Bible, but only turned to God when I needed something. Then, God’s love for me became so real when I was at dance class. In my dance class, we dance to Christian songs and try to go to places we can show our routines like hospitals and nursing homes. This semester we are dancing to the song, “Forever” by Kari Jobe. My teacher began talking about the meaning of the song – Christ’s death and resurrection. She challenged us to really think about it and then to present this picture of Christ through out dance. This really connected with me, and I couldn’t stop thinking about what Jesus had done and if I truly believed it. I immediately talked to my parents. I needed to know if I was saved! We talked, and I knew that night something was different. I saw things and people differently. I kept thinking about all that He had created. I couldn’t wait for God to use me for what I was meant to be used for. I used to be scared and shy, and I will still fight those feelings, but I’m up here today which was a big fear of mine! I’m not scared to go on a mission trip anymore or talk to my friends about Jesus.
I hope you will help me make sure I don’t stray from the path of Christ and help keep me accountable. Thank you for all you’ve done as a church to teach me. I’m excited to begin my new life in Christ!