Now I Know Who I Am

I never thought I was a criminal. And I didn’t think I would end up in jail. But I did. I thought my life was over. I hated myself for what I had done.

In jail I found a Bible in the library. My mother had tried to tell me to go straight all the time I was growing up. But I did not listen.

I opened the Bible and looked at it in disgust. It was worn and marked up, and pages had been torn out by other people. I wanted to kill myself.

Then these words from the Bible just jumped out at me, that the Lord punishes everyone He accepts as a son. I almost fell out of bed. That was me, I thought, me, these words are for me. I don’t know how, but it fits me exactly.

I fell on my knees just like a child. It hit me, these words were for me. Now I know who I am. I am a son, and my father God loves me.

– J.B.

“My child, do not regard lightly the discipline of the LORD, or lose heart when you are punished by him; for the LORD disciplines those whom he loves, and chastises every child whom he accepts.”

Endure trials for the sake of discipline. God is treating you as children; for what child is there whom a parent does not discipline? (Hebrews 12:5–7)

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The above story is from the book “Jesus In Jail” by Frederick Hermann, available on Amazon by clicking here. This excerpt is gratefully used with permission.

Frederick Hermann is the author of several books including “I Am With You Always”, “How to Forgive Anyone for Anything”, “The Joyful Life”, and “The Spirit Set Me Free”. These practical and inspiring books will guide you to find true healing, lasting peace, and delightful consolation as you discover the life-changing power of God in your daily life, in all circumstances, both joyful and sorrowful, right now. Even in the midst of sorrow, grief, or loneliness, the peace of Christ can be yours today. He is a popular speaker for audiences of all ages using a dynamic question and answer style to encourage lively discussion, soul searching, and audience participation. To invite him to speak at your next retreat, church group, youth group or special event, contact him at [email protected]