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When Pastor Joe started preaching, it reminded me of foxhole prayers—those desperate cries we make when we’re in trouble. Back when I was living in sin even more than I do now… because let’s face it, I’m still a sinner.

Foxhole Prayers

You know the kind:

  • “God, if You just get me out of this dangerous situation, I promise I’ll never do ______ again. I swear!”
  • “God, I need money so badly. Please let me find a $20 bill!”
  • “Please, God…”

David was a shepherd—just like I believe we’re all drawn by God to be. God delights in sinners who love Him.

Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
— 1 Samuel 16:7

I love that so much.

Unqualified, But Chosen

Joe asked, “Unqualified, but chosen—can you relate to that?”

Well, let me tell you…

I was the black sheep of my family. I was bullied. I was the fat kid. I started using drugs at 13. I was hopeless—a dropout. I ran away again and again, until I was put on a Greyhound bus at 16 because I was “too much to handle.”

And now… oooooweeee, look at me now.

I AM chosen. I’m a sinner after God’s own heart—and He is after mine. I am the strength in my family. The one people run to.

God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, and God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.
— 1 Corinthians 1:27

God has chosen me and supplied me with strength to shepherd the broken—including my family.

Redeemed and Ready

Maybe all those foxhole prayers… God held onto them, stacked them into a giant gift, and gave it to me on January 21st, 2018—when I was ready to receive it. When I got clean.

I am redeemed. I am blessed.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
— Psalm 34:18

I am a sinner who is in love with God.