At the age of two (or so the story goes), after my toddler behavior had exceeded all patience, my mom sat me on the kitchen counter and said, “Things have got to change. You’re going to accept Jesus now.” She grabbed my hands and, with what limited vocabulary I had, I prayed to accept Jesus into my heart. Apparently, my behavior improved.
A few years later (at around 5 or 6), I apparently made the decision myself in a church service. At that time, the kids sat with the parents in church. Of course, over my adolescent and teen years there were many coming to Jesus moments, however these were the first.
My decision to follow Christ at such a young age really shaped my life. I wanted to pleased the Lord. I wanted Him to work through me. I wanted to change the world for Him. The stories I will share (in one way or another) find their development in this one desire. All my viewed failures and successes stem from the struggle to obey God. It all began at age two. Jesus would forever be shaping my life and my desire was to always be His.
Growing up, there was a little sign in our bathroom that I would always read:
“Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, ‘I find no pleasure in them’.” – Ecclesiastes 12:1
It was a constant reminder to never forget the Lord – a reminder that I carry even to this day.
A good article about this topic:
http://www.ligonier.org/blog/4-reasons-remember-your-creator-your-youth/