Faith in Action 2017 20.08.17 | Page 6

6 FAITH IN ACTION Empty: that’s how Michael Oseyemi can describe life before the Holy Spirit. He tried to find ways to fill it and rid himself of the aching gap within by indulging in pleasures of the flesh – women and pornography. Michael Oseyemi “I tried to take steps towards God, but I gave up at every hurdle. I did not ever think that I was going to have a true relationship with God or be free of my internal problems. There were people in my life who were willing to help me, but I still refused to believe that I could see any positive changes. The day of my birthday is when the penny dropped. Birthdays tend to do that, make you reflect on how far you have come, and I realised that, without God, I was never going to have the strength to overcome my battles. I took the Victory Youth Group (VYG) night vigil as my opportunity to receive God into my life. On the day, I eagerly awaited the moment when we would seek the Holy Spirit. During the meeting, the pastor called those who did not have the Holy Spirit to the Altar. I immediately left my seat. I wanted to leave that night vigil a new man. THE ENGINE OF MY FAITH Whilst I was seeking, I wholeheartedly expressed to God how much I needed Him in my life. I surrendered 100% and decided that I would leave behind everything that did not please Him. When the seeking ended and I opened my eyes, I had an incredible, powerful assurance that God was within me. I felt like I had been given a new body. What I had been longing for had finally happened, and I was elated! In the short space of time between making a decision and receiving the Holy Spirit, what kept me going was my sole determination to receive God in my life. Through receiving the Holy Spirit, I have gained strength and boldness but, most importantly, I have also gained a firm relationship with God. I do not regret the decision I made to surrender my all to God, because He too gave me His all. The Holy Spirit means everything to me. He is the engine of my faith. Most importantly, the Holy Spirit has become my best friend. During my journey to receive the Holy Spirit, I was at university and could have indulged in things that would likely draw me away from God. But, I knew what I wanted, and I was not going to let anyone or anything stop me. I learned that it all starts with a sincere decision to make yourself solely exclusive to God; when you give 100%, God will never let you down.” “I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; surely I will heal you.” 2 Kings 20:5 Healing Day - Every Tuesday at 7.30pm (also at 7am, 10am & 3pm)