GO!
Over ten years ago I was at a Christian conference at the Kahler Motel in Rochester, MN. They did baptisms in the hotel pool, up on the top floor. After we'd all done baptisms, something burned inside of me urging me to lead everyone in song.
I wanted to do anything but pipe up. I love performing in front of others and the like, but this was unscripted and felt like I was interrupting.
Obedience, though? Always a good choice.
I called out very loudly "Um, excuse me! I think we're supposed to sing a song. And the song we're supposed to sing is 'I have decided to follow Jesus'."
I started it out too high, as I was nervous, so it was a little squeaky.
But, that song has so much meaning to me. I decided to be bold because I felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit.
My life has been forever changed.
In the year 2000, just after Spring Break, I decided to follow Jesus as a college freshman. For my own sake. I had always loved Him, but I hadn't truly known Him. I was newly 18. I'd been in a relationship with compromise and was discouraged at its end. And then I came to church and heard the Prodigal Son in a new way. I was weeping silently and hoping nobody noticed.
A couple summers ago playing worship at our church's summer service in the amphitheater, I was introduced to a new version of the song.
"Man of Sorrows".
Oh, Lord. How I was moved!
At the end of your life, you will decide your future. Because it begins the moment you choose. I'm already living my eternal life today because I have decided to follow Jesus. And 16 years later, I have no regrets. I have plenty of mistakes, but Jesus cloaks me in His righteousness and I move on toward His purpose for my life.
What is it? Why, it's His glory! That every breath would declare His praise.
Stop.
***Edit*** So the song I meant to link and reference is not "Man of Sorrows", but we learned them at the same time. They are both from the Hillsong "Glorious Ruins" Album.
The song is "Christ Is Enough"...which uses "I have decided to follow Jesus" as a bridge. :)
P.S. Please include your linkup # or URL for me so I can find you. :)