Tony Nolan

Alive Inside!

Wednesday, September 15, 2010 | Tony Nolan

I love to read theology. It fuels my faith. But more than I get into the books, I really like reading stories from people who have encountered God. They fire up my faith. I have one of those for you. Oh, its subtle and very simple, but woven within this fresh story are a few phrases I think will excite you, that is if you get excited about people coming to faith in Christ Jesus. 

Heres the story, its from a lady named Shannon. She writes:
“I would say my story began the day my mom told me about Christ, but I can’t REALLY say that. I was maybe two or three at the time and I didn’t know what in the world she was talking about. I wasn’t able to comprehend anything she was saying. Who was this God and why did He love me; a little snot-nosed little blondie?

Fast forward to September 12th, 2010. Forsyth Family Fest; Cumming, Georgia.

I could barely contain my excitement that Sunday morning while getting ready. I kept thinking, ‘Oh my gosh, today is going to be awesome!’ I had never heard of Tony Nolan, Charlie Hall, or Canton Jones before and I was excited to learn who they were.

Canton Jones really helped me get into it with his music and voice. It was beautiful. I remember thinking, ‘I’m definitely looking this guy up on YouTube when I get home.’

Anyways, fast forward to Tony Nolan’s message. It hit me like a ton of bricks. That’s horribly cliche, but true. I remember sitting there listening to what he had to say and digesting it all. At the end of his message, I realized something: I hadn’t been focused on God for five or six years (the years I’ve lived in Georgia) and I terribly needed Him more than ever. When Tony told those who raised their hands during the prayer to come down to the front, I panicked. But then he said something about not letting Satan get the best of us and I said my “Excuse me”‘s and made my down to the front. I was shaking; I felt like something was coming alive inside of me.

A few minutes later, when the crowd around those who were with me clapped for us, rejoicing with God about our decision, I couldn’t help but smile. And smile, I did! I don’t think I’ve EVER smiled so big in my life; and I’m quite the smiler!

Anyways, a counselor came up to me and started talking to me. She gave me this little booklet along with her name and phone number. I’ve been going through the booklet and talking to her on the phone every night possible since that Sunday. It changed my life. “The Change Inside of Me” by MercyMe is definitely my theme song as of right now.”

Tony here again now…weeping, gushing emotionally like a big sissy!  I just cant help it. When I hear stories like this, I’m not one of those guys who questions wether Shannon really meant it or not…Im full of faith that the God who invited her to salvation, gives it and she got it! So thrilling to hear her letter. May the Lord bless her in her new relationship with Jesus and use her for His glory.

Shannon I’m so happy for you that I’m still applauding for you and smiling with you!