Conversion
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a gracious Savior ready to present to them the scepter of mercy, even
as Ahasuerus offered to Esther the signal of his favor. All that was
required of the sinner, trembling in the presence of his Lord, was to
put forth the hand of faith and touch the scepter of His grace. The
touch insured pardon and peace.
Those who were waiting to make themselves more worthy of divine
favor before they ventured to claim the promises of God, were making
a fatal mistake. Jesus alone cleanses from sin; He only can forgive
our transgressions. He has pledged Himself to listen to the petition
and grant the prayer of those who come to Him in faith. Many have
a vague idea that they must make some wonderful effort in order to
gain the favor of God. But all self-dependence is vain. It is only by
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connecting with Jesus through faith that the sinner becomes a hopeful,
believing child of God.
These words comforted me, and gave me a view of what I must do
to be saved.
I now began to see my way more clearly, and the darkness began to
pass away. I earnestly sought the pardon of my sins, and strove to give
myself entirely to the Lord. But my mind was often in great distress,
because I did not experience the spiritual ecstasy that I considered
would be the evidence of my acceptance with God, and I dared not
believe myself converted without it. How much I needed instruction
concerning the simplicity of faith!
The Burden Lifted
While bowed at the altar with others who were seeking the Lord,
all the language of my heart was: “Help, Jesus; save me, or I perish!
I will never cease to entreat till my prayer is heard and my sins are
forgiven.” I felt my needy, helpless condition as never before.
As I knelt and prayed, suddenly my burden left me, and my heart
was light. At first a feeling of alarm came over me, and I tried to
resume my load of distress. It seemed to me that I had no right to feel
joyous and happy. But Jesus seemed very near to me; I felt able to
come to Him with all my griefs, misfortunes, and trials, even as the
needy ones came to Him for relief when He was upon earth. There
was a surety in my heart that He understood my peculiar trials, and
sympathized with me. I can never forget this precious assurance of