The Drawer that Saved Me

I had the privilege of attending the American Christian Fiction Writer’s Conference this past weekend in Grapevine, TX. It’s amazing to sit in a room full of Christians who all have the same passion that you do, and refreshing to know there are others who also hear voices in their heads crying out for their story to be told. I enjoyed visiting with my cousin, Julie Strokhorb, who writes children’s books and catching up with my good friend and freelance editor, Robin Patchen. I made wonderful new friends and rubbed elbows with authors of whom I’ve been a fan and who’ve inspired me.I also received recognition for being a finalist in the Genesis contest forunpublished authors. I want to thank everyone for all their prayers and support. Even though I didn’t win, I enjoyed talking to the finalists and winners. Their eyes hold the same spark of excitement as they talk about their characters that I have when I talk about mine. I appreciated their instant connection and support.  Keep an eye out for these up and coming authors Matthew Aynes (The Reaping) and winner Rick Rosenkranz (Luminarium).One of the many amazing things I witnessed was Jerry B. Jenkins’s receive the LifetimeAchievementt Award. Jerry B. Jenkins along with Dr. Tim LaHaye wrote the bestseller Left Behind series. This was special to me because it was book Left Behind that re-lit a spiritual fire in me and brought me back to God.I grew up going to church, but once I was old enough to strike out on my own, I had to find my own way. Unfortunately, that meant putting God in the backseat. Truth be told it was more like stowing God in the trunk. I’d completely put him out of mind in the pursuit of worldly fun. Thankfully, He didn’t give up on me as easily as I gave up on him.My mom didn’t either. She would send me devotionals, prayers, and Christian books including the first Left Behind book in the series. For years, I had a drawer I shoved them into. Then one day, I ran out of reading material. I opened the drawer and pulled out, Left Behind. I’d barely made it through the first chapter when the realization shook me like a clap of thunder that I’d turned my back on God.I remember exactly where I was when I bowed my head and prayed, “God, I’m so sorry. I don’t want to do this life without you.” Even though I’d ignored Him for years, God was there with me and ready to get back in the driver’s seat. I prayed for Him to help me find a church, and He moved my husband and I literally down the road from a Spirit-filled church where we’ve now been members for over fifteen years.I’m so grateful that Jerry Jenkins listened to God and wrote the book that saved me. I am grateful for my mom who never stopped praying for me, and for an ever-loving God who never gave up on me. You too may have people you’ve been trying to reach or for whom you have been praying. I’m asking for you not to give up. May you continue to keep filling their “drawer” because there will come a day when they open it and God will step into the driver’s seat. Remember God is patience not wanting anyone to perish. That His word does not come back void, and that He hears the cry of your heart. Of that, I am a testament.Don't miss a post. Sign up for my newsletter: https://lorridudley.com/mc4wp-form-preview/