Before we begin I want to make clear I wish no offense in sharing this story. Trust me, I have been slightly concerned about writing it, however I was recently affirmed by someone who knew nothing about my intent. This mentor affirmed me by saying "He told me to tell you to operate and conduct your business in fearless confidence."
Being around faith-filled churches as a young child, I grew up with an understanding that God's power is limitless, however I had one BIG doubt; the power of healing. My doubt swelled every time when I would see a charismatic preacher on TV deliver a "supposed" healing miracle. I would laugh and say "what a joke!" How can a healing take place by simply praying? Please!
Can you ever recall suffering from a terrible illness where you wanted to simply give up? My answer to this question takes me back to the early spring of 2006. Having laryngitis and a severe sinus infection at the same time seemed impossible. Well, it's not. I refer to this illness as "The Opportunity."
After suffering with these ailments for over seven days, I finally sought conventional help from my doctor. Of course, this only provided a temporary reprieve. Never having been this ill before, I was becoming worried. I could feel despair overwhelming me. What could I do or who could help me to be healthy again?
When I returned from the doctor's office, Ron Dean, a Principal in the business at that time, who's also my Dad, called to inquire how I was feeling. Though I was able to muster a soft, yet painful whisper "OK", he understood I wasn't exactly ready for my four mile jog routine.
What he suggested next began what I refer to as "Opening the Door." In an unassuming way, he asked if I would be open to receive prayer. My first thought was "OK, sure." Get my name on a church prayer list was my idea, however his idea was completely different.
He suggested having two mutual, God-fearing friends come to my office and pray for me. Immediately a burst of anger exploded inside like fuel being thrown on a fire. The flames instantly flashed a TV preacher smacking me on the head, screaming and dancing like James Brown saying,"You're healed brother!"
"Absolutely not," was my first thought. Why or how could I even consider this when I was 100% in doubt of healing by prayer? I have done everything I could do to get better, right?
Stay tuned for Part Two.
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