Michigan

I (Jerry Taylor) was raised in an Adventist environment, and learned the Adventist beliefs early in life. As a teenager, I decided the world was more fun. I turned my back on the church and pursued my own pleasures in a worldly environment.

After a time of unsettled life experiences, I landed a well-paying job that provided me an opportunity to travel throughout the U.S. I had money to support my family and pursue my hobbies of hunting and fishing. I worked seven days a week driving a moving van. Any free time I had, I spent indulging my hobbies.

One night, a couple years ago, I had a very traumatic dream! I dreamed I witnessed the Second Coming of Christ. It was very real, very powerful, and really started me thinking about my life. Shortly thereafter, I had another dream, just as disturbing and just as realistic. I dreamed I saw fire and brimstone raining down from Heaven; I could feel the intense heat all around me. However, my house was spared destruction. I woke up shaking and very afraid.

About this time, I was given an Amazing Facts sermon series about end-time events by speaker Doug Batchelor. I took these DVDs in the truck with me, and listened to them repeatedly. I was convicted of the truth and the urgency of the message. I had no choice but to follow the truth! I told my boss that I could no longer work on the Sabbath. After a series of attempts to reach a compromise on work hours, he realized I meant what I said. I was released from my job. I was unemployed, my bills continued and my family was concerned. I was praying hard!

This was a testing time for me. It was time to act on my change of priorities in this life. Through answered prayer, I was able to sell some of my favorite "toys" (like hunting equipment, etc.) to pay the monthly bills. After hitting the bottom of the barrel, the Lord gave me a job moving people with my own truck. I do not work on Sabbath, and my clients like my honest, careful work enough to work around my Sabbath. I am busy, and make enough money to support my family.

Now that God is my number one priority, and after completely surrendering to His will, He is taking care of me! I spend time with Him every day, and the hunting and fishing passions are no longer important to me. My baptism was a very high day for me. The feeling of burying my past sins and taking the vow of service to God gave me a feeling of finally getting back home after a long absence. The love of God floods my very soul. Praise the Lord for His mercies and leading!

Jerry Taylor, Livingston Church member, as shared with Kassandra McFarland, communication secretary, Livingston Church