Encountering Jesus: A Life-Changing Awakening to God's Sovereign Grace

You Did Not Choose Me: A Personal Encounter with Jesus

Have you ever experienced a moment when the words of the Bible came alive and transformed your understanding of God? The living and active nature of the Word of God is astonishing. It has the power to penetrate the depths of our hearts, revealing our thoughts and intentions (Hebrews 4:12). In this article, I want to share a personal encounter I had with Jesus, which occurred one summer morning in Manila just before my twentieth birthday. This encounter forever changed my life and deepened my relationship with the Lord.

An Awakening to the Doctrine of Election

As I sat down for my morning devotions that day, little did I know that Jesus was about to reveal a profound truth to me. As I read the Bible, a passage on the doctrine of election caught my attention. I had heard the term "election" before, but I never fully grasped its meaning or significance. However, on that particular day, the Holy Spirit illuminated the truth to me in a way that I had never experienced before.

Through the words of Scripture, Jesus opened my eyes to the reality that God had chosen me before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4). It was not by my own merit or efforts that I was saved, but solely by God's sovereign grace. This revelation shook me to the core and sparked a deep sense of awe and gratitude within me.

As I continued to study the Bible, I discovered numerous passages that affirmed the doctrine of election. Jesus Himself said, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit" (John 15:16). These words echoed in my heart, confirming the truth I had just encountered.

Pursuing Joy in Christ

Along with the awakening to the doctrine of election, Jesus also called me to pursue my greatest joy in Him. This concept was entirely new to me, as I had always associated Christianity with duty and sacrifice rather than delight and pleasure. But Jesus challenged my assumptions and revealed Himself as the ultimate source of joy and satisfaction.

Through Scripture, Jesus showed me that He is the living water that quenches our spiritual thirst (John 4:14). He is the bread of life that satisfies our hunger (John 6:35). He is the light of the world that illuminates our path (John 8:12). In Him, I discovered a joy that surpasses anything the world has to offer.

As I delved deeper into the Bible, I encountered verses that encouraged me to delight in the Lord and find my joy in Him alone. The psalmist declares, "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence, there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore" (Psalm 16:11). These words resonated with my newfound understanding of pursuing joy in Christ.

Walking in the Light of the Encounter

After this encounter with Jesus, my perspective on Christianity shifted dramatically. I began to see the Bible not merely as a book of rules and regulations, but as a living testimony of God's love and grace. The words on the pages became a gateway to encountering the living God.

As I continued to study the Bible and grow in my relationship with Jesus, I discovered that this encounter was just the beginning. The Word of God continued to reveal new truths and insights, guiding me in my journey of faith. I realized that the Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom, a lamp to my feet and a light to my path (Psalm 119:105).

Through this encounter, I also learned the importance of sharing my faith with others. Just as Jesus had chosen and appointed me to bear fruit, I felt a renewed sense of purpose to spread the good news of His love and salvation. I realized that my encounter with Jesus was not meant to be kept to myself but to be shared with those around me.

Conclusion

Encountering Jesus through the Word of God is a transformative experience. It has the power to awaken us to profound truths and invite us into a deeper relationship with Him. Just as Jesus revealed the doctrine of election and the pursuit of joy in Him to me, He desires to reveal Himself to each one of us in unique and personal ways.

As you engage with the Bible, allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate the words and open your heart to encounter Jesus. Seek His guidance and revelation, and be prepared to be transformed. The Bible is not merely a historical document or a collection of moral teachings; it is the living and active Word of God, waiting to reveal Himself to those who seek Him.

May your journey of encountering Jesus through the Word be filled with joy, awe, and a deepening love for our Savior. May you be inspired to share your encounters with others, inviting them into the transformative power of encountering Jesus for themselves.