This morning, Pastor Ed spoke, using the book of Jonah as his theme. He talked about us hearing God's call to something, as did Jonah, but then responding as he did, by not doing anything, except moving in the opposite direction. In the 1st chapter, Jonah continues to go "down" - he goes down to Joppa, then down to the docks, then down into the ship - till finally he is thrown off the ship and ends up down in the belly of the big fish. It's only then that he cries out to the Lord. After he repents, God causes the fish to spit Jonah up onto the dry land and gives him the same call. God doesn't change his mind.

After Pastor Ed concluded, he gave his altar call for those who know that god has a calling on their life. I went forward and was praying for forgiveness and strength and direction, and the Holy Spirit came over me. It was different this time. As I lay there on the floor - i somehow ended up partially under the front pew - I felt a battle raging in me. I think I was shaking throughout this battle, and I know I was in darkness. I also had the feeling like I was drowning. Yet a glimmer of light began to peek through that darkness, and I tried to move toward it. It got brighter, shimmering as though I was just beneath the surface of this great water that had come over me. I was crying out to the Lord for help, for deliverance, for freedom that only comes in Him. Finally, the light was bright, and I was able to relax. I felt a great burden lift from me.

I'm in awe at what the Lord has done in me. No, I don't know specifically what the battle was over. But I do know that He is the victor! Hallelujah! The Lord had a purpose for me being at the altar this morning. I am thankful that He also caused my obedience in stepping forward.