As a child, I remember my family attended Catholic Mass each week. Sundays were spiritual, but the remainder of the week we sat in bars playing video games while my parents drank and entertained themselves. My parents would eventually divorce, and for years I longed for a father figure. My older cousin Bobby would temporarily filled that void. As I mentioned in Chapter One of my book – Unshackled, Bobby was always there for me and my mother in the absence of my father, and I respected that! But there was always something missing.
After accepting Jesus into my heart I couldn’t wait to learn more about Him. I committed myself to daily bible study where I learned more about His Love for me. He quickly filled that void I had been longing for all those years. God placed Pastor Larry Titus into my life who mentored and disciple me while I was in Prison. So I had the best of both worlds, Pastor Larry as my earthly father figure and God my Heavenly Father. I love what 1 John 3:1 says, “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us that we should be called children of God!”
If you are hurting today or stumbling over a dysfunctional history like I did, know that there is a God in Heaven who loves you. I want to encourage you to read God’s Word every day. Spending time with Him will create an atmosphere of knowing God’s perfect will for your life. Pray with me this week that we have an accurate view of our Heavenly Father. If you know someone that is hurting, please share this with them that they may also find encouragement in know their Heavenly Father loves them. Talk to Y’all next week.