Bible Discussion Thread

I would like to write this, so that I may remain anonymous - but at the same time - share what Jesus has done for me. Please bare with me.

I was raised a catholic. I enjoyed the structure, tradition and taught prayer of the church. I felt a closeness to God as a youth, that went away in adulthood. I married, and it was terrible. They were a non believer. I sinned. I failed as a husband, father and catholic. Divorced, I felt I was damaged and no longer capable of being religious in the old way I thought about things.

Ive prayed all my life, attended church (more in my youth) but had never read the Bible. Ive remarried and have a fantastic wife and our children are great, but I could not find a relationship with God the way I previously thought I knew how.

3 years and 2 months ago, I was going through a terrible time personally - and a friend who is a former catholic now christian, told me to read the Bible; open my heart, just try it.

I did. First in the basement, I felt almost embarrassed. A few pages, here, there. Then my prayers were changing, then I was reading every day, then I was reading in the main floor of our house. Every day, regardless of work or being home or on vacation.

I was addicted to many sins without realizing it, and one by one they fell off and there was no craving to repeat. I had terrible anxiety and regular panic attacks.

3 plus years later, I pray at least twice a day; I read from the Bible every day, and have read it cover to cover/made notes and highlights over 6 times. We say grace before our family dinner every night. I try to make examples to the kids about good and bad, based on my readings from the Bible. When I speak to friends and sometimes strangers, I feel the need to tell them what the Bible and Jesus have done for me.

I carry no anger in my heart.

I do not deserve the grace, mercy, light, love or peace that God has extended me - but I thank him every day for it with my prayers, studying and unending loyalty and love.