Q:
I grew up in a religious family, but once I got out on my own I left all that behind. If I had it to do over again I wouldn't go down that road because I've learned the hard way that once you leave God out of your life, it can be miserable. Maybe someone will learn from my experience.
A:
Thank you for your honesty — and yes, I too hope others will learn from your experience. The Bible’s warning is true: “The way of the unfaithful is hard” (Proverbs 13:15).
Why is this? Why aren’t our lives fulfilled and happy apart from God? Admittedly, we may experience happiness for a time; we may even think we’re on the right road and don’t need God. The Bible says that sin may bring us pleasure — for a time (see Hebrews 11:25). But if we’re honest (as you’ve been), we’ll admit our lives were empty, and we paid a stiff price for our wanderings. Like King Solomon of old, we’ll realize that apart from God “All of it is meaningless, a chasing after the wind” (Ecclesiastes 2:17).
We weren’t only made by God, we were made for God — and life’s greatest joy comes from knowing Him and living for Him. And this becomes a reality as we turn to Jesus Christ and commit our lives to Him. His words are true — as millions have discovered: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).
But listen: It isn’t too late for you to discover this truth for yourself! God loves you, and right now you can turn to Him for the forgiveness and new life you need. Confess your sin to Him, and open your heart to Christ today.