Baptism into a New Life

I was rebaptized at Fielder Road Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas on May 3, 2009. I wanted to make a public declaration of my renewed Christian faith. I was 30 years old, and 22 years had passed since my baptism at my grandmother’s church as an 8 year old kid. 

Before my Fielder baptism, I gave my personal testimony to the congregation: 

Hi, I’m Lance Brown and I’m 30 years old. I was baptized as a child about eight years old with my brother and my cousin. But since that time, I’ve made some bad decisions and done some things I’m not proud of. I have really felt led by God recently to rededicate my life in this manner. I’m getting baptized today because my life has changed and my heart has changed. I want this to be a symbol of my complete submission to Christ. I am a new creation.

Later that day, I wrote in my journal: 

I was baptized today and I am now a new creation in Christ. It feels really good to obey God’s command that I do this. I pray that He will use my testimony to bless and inspire others. I pray that as I walk with Him that He will make my paths straight and open new doors. May I pray with wisdom that comes from the blood of Jesus Christ and knowing Him. God, walk with me every step of the way. Live in me and guide me.

I spent a great deal of time that year praying and searching for a closer connection to God. I wrote many prayers in my journal. I wanted something different in my life, and looking back now I can see how God was preparing the way forward, leading me into this ministry.