In his distress he sought the favor of the Lord. (2 Chron. 33:12)

A student recently asked, “Why did you become a Christian?” Her question brought to mind one Wednesday night when I was still in high school. My mother and younger brother got into a heated argument. In her anger my mother went to the kitchen, pulled out a long knife from the utensil drawer, and proceeded to go after Tommy. In her rage I believe she would have injured my brother if she had caught up with him.

Although I was not a Christian at the time, I believe God helped me to be standing at the right spot at the right time. As my mother ran past me, I was able to grab the knife out of her hand. This caused her to pause, come back to her senses, and begin to allow the heat within her to simmer down.

I was so upset I left my house and walked five miles to my friend Andy’s house. When I saw him I cried out, “I can’t stand it any longer. I am miserable. I want the kind of life and family you have!” That night Andy and his sister, Nancy, presented the gospel message to me. Distress caused me to seek God for help. I’m thankful that I had friends who knew Him and could tell me how to find Him.

Be prepared to share the good news with someone who is in distress.

Jim “Umf” Lo is a professor, cross-cultural leader, intercessor, and author of several books including Unholiness: Overcoming the Forces That Attack Your Soul (WPH).

© 2018 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.