No Turning Back: A Life Set Apart for God

"I have decided to follow Jesus; no turning back, no turning back."

The Legacy of Faith That Shaped My Life

Faith transcends mere belief; it embodies a legacy that endures. Many years ago, my grandfather established a small church in Miami, and from that humble beginning, several thriving ministries emerged. This church became our family's second home and the focal point of our lives.

Each week followed a sacred rhythm: Tuesday Bible Study, Thursday Prayer Meeting, Saturday Sunday Preparation, and Sundays filled with worship, both morning and evening, along with Youth Service every third Sunday night. I was involved in all of it, but Baptism constantly stirred something profound within me.

We would fill the baptismal pool with fresh living water, a symbol of renewal and resurrection. As Scripture teaches, we believe in full immersion:

"We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead… we too may live a new life." — Romans 6:4

For me, Baptism represented more than a ritual; it was an act of consecration. To be consecrated means to be set apart for a divine purpose. In that sacred moment, an ordinary life transforms into an extraordinary one, a life dedicated to God, committed to walking in holiness, love, and truth.

The Turning Point: Choosing to Follow Jesus Fully

In 2005 - 2006, I found myself at a pivotal crossroads in my life. I recognized that I could no longer split my heart between God and the world. Having experienced enough to understand, I realized that nothing in this life could truly satisfy the deep hunger of my soul. I desired God and Him alone.

It was akin to being in a relationship that had reached a critical moment, the moment where you either walk away or make a full commitment. I chose commitment. I chose covenant. I chose Christ.

A.W. Tozer once wrote,

"The man who has God for his treasure has all things in One."

From that moment on, I made the conscious decision to follow Jesus, and I have never looked back.

The Cross Before Me, the World Behind Me

My complete surrender to God necessitated relinquishing everything that could potentially pull me away from Him, including my sexuality. I committed to living in celibacy until marriage, motivated not by fear or guilt, but by genuine devotion.

As Scripture reminds us:

"Flee from sexual immorality… You are not your own; you were bought with a price. Therefore, honor God with your body." — 1 Corinthians 6:18–20

Although I haven't lived a particularly wild life, I understood that faithful obedience requires purity in every aspect. Temptations have indeed arisen, but in moments of weakness, God's grace has sustained me. Jesus' words to the woman caught in sin have served as my guiding light:

"Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more." — John 8:11

By His mercy, I have maintained a life of celibacy for twenty years (May 2025).

The journey has not always been easy. Men have respected my choice, yet few have been willing to wait for it. However, through this waiting period, I have learned that God's timing is perfect and His promises are unwavering.

"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength…" — Isaiah 40:31

Embracing a life of celibacy fosters peace, clarity, and spiritual fortitude. It allows you to perceive people's true intentions and protects you from heartache, unwanted pregnancies, and the emotional scars that can result from sexual sin. Most importantly, it is a way to honor God with your body and to remain reserved for the one He has destined for you.

As Dietrich Bonhoeffer so profoundly stated,

"When Christ calls a man, He bids him come and die."

In surrendering to this call, I discovered genuine life.

The Hymn That Became My Anthem

Every Baptism Sunday at our church, we would raise our voices in song:

I have decided to follow Jesus;

No turning back, no turning back.  

If no one joins me, still I will follow;

No turning back, no turning back.  

The cross before me, the world behind me;  

No turning back, no turning back.  

These words are more than just lyrics; they serve as my declaration, my daily anthem, and a testament to perseverance and faith.

A Prayer for New Life in Christ

As you read this, you may feel something stirring within your spirit. Perhaps you've tried everything the world has to offer, yet still feel a sense of emptiness. You long for peace, purpose, and a fresh start.

Friend, Jesus is waiting for you with open arms. Today can be the beginning of a new chapter in your life, a day of consecration.

Pray this sincerely from your heart:

Lord Jesus,  

I acknowledge that I am a sinner and ask for Your forgiveness.  

I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead.  

I turn away from my sins and invite You into my heart and life.  

I wish to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior.  

Amen.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away; behold, the new has come." — 2 Corinthians 5:17

This is my story.  

My covenant.  

My song.  

I have chosen to follow Jesus.  

No turning back. No turning back.

Call to Action:

If this testimony resonates with you, consider sharing it with someone who could use a word of encouragement. Feel free to share a comment about your own faith journey or how you are currently following Jesus.

Remember, a life dedicated to God is never a life wasted.

Stay faithful and consecrated.  

With the cross before you and the world behind you,  

There's no turning back.