How God found me?
God Humbles when creation questions His validity.
God Himself Reveals --- What is The Truth ?
Capt. Shashi Kant Bahl (ex-army)
Before I came to know The Truth, my views were that Life is a myth, a dream, an endless struggle, and a play and I am- a stage-player. With such a confused picture of life I concluded that life is mysteriously a puzzle filled with unsolved and unsettled riddles. Many a times I even thought that God is a research of weaklings and an orthodox idea. However, a real search continued deep down in my heart to find out The Truth. Being an officer in the Indian Army I kept myself busy in other things rather than seriously pursuing after my search for The Truth.
2. I, Shashi Kant Bahl, was raised up in a staunch Arya Samaj family. My father Shri. R.L. Behl, was a well-known person to open new fields for the sake of religion. As such I had access to Arya Samaj, Gurudwara, temples, and grave of a Muslim-Pir for worship. For me all religions and gods were one and the same. Though they are all contrary to each other. While chanting the Mantras I used to see the respective god with my closed eyes. I had been on pilgrimage from Kashmir in the north to Kanya-Kumari in the south. In spite of my religiosity, there was still a vacuum in my heart and I did not know the remedy to remove this vacuity.(I lived in Dehra Dun,).
3. Finally I decided to join Swami Vivekananda Movement of "Oneness of All and Serve the Mankind." Though I believed that an idol is nothing and God is in our heart, yet I continued to worship the idols with great reverence. While offering religious prayers and reading sacred books a few questions haunted me: "How can I serve anyone without being selfish (NISWARTH) in this world? On the other hand I had participated in the prayer meetings of Saibaba's followers and had regards for Shirdi Saibaba. I honored all religions and visited their places of worship.
4. Although I had a very low opinion about Christianity, I still attended few Church services. Once I was told about the Eucharist in a Roman Catholic Church that they were in the row "having confessed all their sins." In a flash of moment I said:" I can never recollect all of my sins; so let me stay away from this."
5. One day, on 30th December 1977, since I had many questions and arguments, a minister of the Gospel presented me with a New Testament. I read it with great reverence. I liked the teachings and underlined many passages. I also started appropriating and adopting many of the teachings and began teaching them to my subordinates. While reading John 20:29, a small-voice from within spoke: "God! Can I be the one to believe on you like that?" I didn't wait for the answer, as I got suddely busy, in my own, with my new responsibilities on the Indo-Pak Border Post.
6. I still regarded Jesus Christ as a god of Christian religion. Meanwhile I came across many Anglo-Indians professing Christianity but having nothing to testify about Christ. One day I met an Evangelist and got so angry with him that I ridiculed and graded him as an American Agent, accusing him of making strategic plans to make us slaves through Conversion?
7. In the evening of Monday, 22nd January 1979, I had stepped out on a major journey of my life. Next morning I found myself in Army Custody, handcuffed and blindfolded.(1) I continued , as it had been practice for many years to observe fasting and prayer every Tuesday and full moon nights. While in the custody I began observing them more devotedly & in addition -- 7 times Hanuman Chalseesa, Mantras of Vedas (Gayatri-Sandhya, Maha-Mritanjaya), Ramayana of Tulsi Das, Geeta, prayers to Shiva, Krishna, Durga and Nanak Dev (partially Ardass/Japaji Sahib) and even to St. Jude of Roman Catholicism. I had learnt 10 Kalma of Islaam & once in a while I would simply pay respect to that faith as well. In spite of all this my mental tension was increasing every moment. The more I chanted these Mantras the demon spirits oppressed me all the more.(I had recited Mahamrutanjaya mantra for 31 thousand times, exclusively). I realized that my good ideals, good deeds, religiosity, my social influence, my wealth were altogether useless, helpless and trash without God. I became so much mentally tense that for 72 hours I did not even feel sleepy. I was mentally getting set for dying than to live, once I am set free from the Custody.( just as mentioned in Psalm 116:3, 118:5). I wrote down my last will on a piece of a paper, regarding my assets.
CONVERSION OF Life/ Heart
8. On 08th June 1979, (139 days after my Custody) I got a book called "The Power of Positive Thinking" from the Army Officers' Library. I learned from the book that God is Gracious and a Loving Father. He is neither happy nor had He desired for me to suffer; that I am suffering since I am a destitute, naked and a wretched sinner, a rebel against God; walking in the opposite direction and away from the Presence of God. I realized that the more I followed the man-made religions, the farther I was going from God. For that matter, an Atheist was just one step ahead of me.Prime sin is "not knowing my creator & my savior"John 16:8,9.-New Testament.
SELF-REALIZATION
9. I was considered by my elders in the society as a man of high ideals and finer principles with good sense of morality and no vices to give up. But at the same time I never thought of evaluating my own standard of 'good morality' with God's standard of Righteousness. What man approves and commends may not measure up to what God approves. Every person, a friend or a relative, whosoever came in contact with me, thought I was some one different and found my life style truly fascinating. I sincerely thought I was leading a right kind of life before God, until one day God revealed it to me that I was sincerely wrong.
10. Such realization brought me face to face with the reality of my own sinfulness and how that I was leading a life that was diametrically opposite to God. As Prophet Isaiah said that all my good deeds and religious works were "as filthy rags" before God. (Isaiah 64:6).
11. I began to examine my past retrospectively. The Word of God, which is the Mirror for one's life, showed me distinctly all my sins . I found myself as an incorrigible sinner deserving God's wrath and punishment. Although worldly-wise I lived fairly a good life – I could forgive people, honored elders, sympathetic to the poor and needy, and took no pride in my rank and status – these good traits stood no chance to earn God's forgiveness. My inner motives were so corrupt that even in the 'Holy Places of Worship' I lusted after women irrespective of their age and status and even the goddesses did not escape my lustful eyes. In those days I had a strong desire to become a notorious decoit with prize on my head: just to rob the rich to give it to poor. Evidently my sins stood as a barrier between God and me."who am I?" The answer is "a wretched sinner,who does not deserve mercy."
12. The realization that I was a slave to sinful desires and deeds eventually drove me to seek forgiveness from God Almighty. (Since up-till this point I was biased towards Jesus Christ). I confessed my sins to God Almighty – Who created me, gave me breath & blood in my body. (Since I had no one to guide me, I kept confessing my sins, one by one for 3 days).I deeply regretted, when I thought I should have come to the real Father long ago. The delay was clearly on my part, as I believed in the rebirth and transmigration of the soul into something or someone else rather than a person being born-again (as taught by JESUS CHRIST). I had been under the misconception that I was some-one in my 'previous life.' The Word of God cleared my mistaken belief that man is physically born only once. There is no cycle of births. This is evident from Hebrews 9:27 "It is appointed unto men once to die and after this the judgment." It is clear beyond an argument that I am born for the first time on this earth and after this, if I refuse to accept God's offer of His (Love,Forgiveness)Salvation, I must be ready to face the final judgment of God- to live in hell for ever. He gave me the assurance of forgiveness . (the symptom of forgiveness was- hatred for my past sinful way of life, Peace of heart & mind, inspite of no change in the situation.)
PRAYER ANSWERING GOD
13. During these days of my walk with God -Almighty, I had an opportunity to experience the power of prayer. While reading through the book, I came across a powerful saying of Christ: "Therefore I say unto you, whatsoever things ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." (Mark 11:24).It was a scorching hot summer in June, one night the electricity went off. On enquiring, soldiers on duty-they said that due to damages to Power Transformers (50 kilometers away) at Power Station, the power supply was cut off. I then sat down and prayed like a child and asked God to restore the power supply. In just five minutes the power came back. I did not hesitate to tell the sentries around that God has heard my prayers. (Till now I had not realized that I am following the Words of Jesus.)
ONLY GOD HEALS
14. In February 1979, I had developed a sever kind of skin disease. It got worsened in-spite of medication. Now in June, I believed in God who says in Exodus 15:26 "I am the Lord that heals you." (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24). By faith I applied little ointment on the skin and prayed, "God this is only an instrument, but you are the healer."I did not know anything more of prayer. The next morning after bath, I found my skin absolutely clean of all ailments!
FAITH WE NEED
15. The Word of God says: Hebrews 11:6"Without faith, it is impossible to please God ." We see people deceiving themselves by placing their faith on man and on man-made principles. This kind of faith is superstitious and proves fatal at the time of real test. Its blind Faith. The Word of God prepares our hearts to have faith on God as we read through His Word (Romans 10:17). Faith comes from Him. Faith on God based on man's word, is blind Faith.
REVELATION OF THE TRUTH
16. Though I began to feel comfortable, even while living in the room (custody), I did not realize the Lordship of JESUS. My birthday was due on 15 June. So I sought permission to visit any Priest on that day. I did not get any response. Thus on that day I walked out of my room challenging the sentries & authorities. Soon a group of senior officers walked into my room. They had a large tray of roses & sweets. They wished me a happy birthday. I was then asked about my reaction to the situation, if I was in their shoes ? When I answered, they were startled & at a total loss to say anything & left my room. I began to read my book. God told me "Be still & know that I am God (Ps 46:10)". I sat back comfortably leaving the situation for Him to solve. Soon I was asked to move to visit the Priest –I regarded him as a Christian priest. (Since Hindu & Sikh priests were not available on that day.) This priest was well aware that I am biased towards Christianity. I had to persist on for good 20 minutes that he must bless me, since it's my birthday. Laying hands on my head he prayed in few words. He then offered me a New Testament again to read. Back in my room I came & read through its first chapter as I used to read my religious books.
17. Next morning, 16 June, approximately at 0650 hrs, while getting out of sleep, I heard a loud & clear voice " Little did I wonder I strengthen you" .It was old style English –which I was not so used to. I just felt amused & very casually credited the Voice to the god of Christian religion. Next day late in the evening (around 2245 hrs), up in starry sky, I saw a large circle of green light & yellow at the center. I had a transistor in my hand & was standing, listening film songs. (I recollected of having seen lights/ stars flashing in my room- while I was doing my religious prayers.)
On third day, 17thJune, also while getting out of sleep I heard myself speaking " how long will I live?" In reply, immediately, I heard "TIMOTHEUS". This means "honoring God"- in Greek language. I began finding the age of Timotheus in the Bible. (Since I believed in my previous birth, I was a NAZI–soldier & thus I must suffer the result of my deeds). I credited this voice too to the Christian-god).
On fourth day,19Jun, at daybreak, while I was just about to open my eyes, I heard a thundering voice, as of hundred water- falls, in my room " I shall change the law, I will kill justice, I will give you mercy."(James1:13b) I still felt amused & credited it too to Christian-god. (Staying there for almost five months, I had become physically weak but still not a bit scared of hearing The Voice in my room.) As such I should be considered spiritually blind, deaf & dumb. (2 Corinthians 4:4, Job 33:14).I rather wanted to see the priest & ask him the meaning of his god's message. After this I went to routine bath & as usual began reciting the Chaleesa. Only twice I had finished & a Small Still Voice spoke from within me, commanding me to " Stop, do not say this anymore." I stopped obediently & began to ponder – "only Satan hinders & causes confusion /doubts. While following the Truth, who is this stopping me to Pray to God?"(I did feel I am praying to God only.)
GOD REVEALS HIMSELF 18. I came back in my room, sat down to pray & ask "God, who is this stopping me to pray to You." Now the Holy Spirit began to communicate within my spirit. The Small Still Voice spoke to me "I am above all (Ps 135:5,John 10:29).I have brought you from the face of all these to Myself. " "What should I pray then?" I asked. Since chanting Mantra etc had been my prayers. Then He said "You have learnt from the book pray for others needs ." (Once I am His child, I need not to worry for myself.) Instead of 45 minutes I was free in 15 minutes or so. (I prayed for others in custody, there were above 170), in hospital, in Quarter-Guard & at home –family members. While doing so I could not view any of the gods'. While thinking about them, God began asking me " Now what shape or face do you want to see? Did you see any figure when you saw the lights?" I replied, "No, there was no face. But I had heard the words in Biblical language. So let me see their Jesus– with long hair and beard ." Then He began to explain, "It was necessary that I must come in human form to speak to man. So that he may listen & follow me (Isaiah 43:10). If I had spoken from above, man would have feared to death (Exodus 20:19). Do not acknowledge that shape of man (2 Corinthians 5:16) but follow the teachings given in the name of Jesus Christ (John 8:31-32). " I still insisted & asked, "Let me see the cross at least, which is of X-ians. Then came the commanding reply " that is also a sign of wood. I am unlimited & you cannot limit me to a symbol. You shall not bow to any shape, sign, thing or a person (Exodus20: 4-5) (now I know clearly He became cursed for my sake on the cross, nailed my sin-plate on that. There is no holiness in that cross.) My hand is upon your head."(1Peter5:6).I said, " That's all correct" & bowed my head. Again I heard strongly in my spirit, "Whom do you bow now?" " To You, Almighty Father." He then explained "I am inside you now. Not outside." (1John 4:4) As I further began to think of seeing the priest, God began telling me, " Whatsoever was to be accomplished by my servant, it has been done. Both of you are dust. I am your Guru .(John 13:13 ).I will teach you all The Truth.(John 14:26)You have heard My Voice, seen the Light (with my ears & eyes respectively).I am that I am; Self –existent & not because of your belief . (Ex 3:14, John 8:58)" (2) I then asked " how should I know more about you & what do I read ?" My Father replied "Read the words of Jesus. That is My letter for every human being.( It does not belong to any religion.)"This was the point of my separation from the old- life, religiousness. God did tolerate me till I was prepared in my heart to accept His instructions as a child. When He saw I was ready, He told me categorically & I did not question-Why?Obedience to His command was source of Joy for me.
19. Then onwards I began to pray to God –Almighty, as I am speaking to my real Father: Because now He is my Real Father. I need not to look for any shape or sign to concentrate. Thus every day He began to teach me & clearing my misconceptions. My God is Living. He is inside me & speaks to me. Prior to this Satan (the person of evil-power), was inside me & was ruling my life. In his slavery I was living comfortably sinful life & religious as well. I am now set free from chains of Satan –with total change in my attitude towards God & the world of sin, sickness, curses of forefathers. Baptism of Holy Spirit As God had taught me to pray for others. I was literally carefree about my situation & was tottally engrossed about welbeing of many like me or in bad & worse condition or sick & tormented otherwise. while doing so I went to bed & soon I heard myself speaking some kind of English with no meaning. My tongue came in my jaws & so I woke up. |( I could not understand this phenomena untill prior to water baptism, I heard the Pastor speaking to the believers"I know this man was against Jesus & now he has spoken in Tongues") So this gift is for all who are born of God. ( Acts 2:38,39, John 7:37-38, Mark 16:17, 1 Cor 14:2,4). I am under Grace now to receive Wisdom & Strength from Him to live. No more Do's & Don'ts; no more any religion. Holy Spirit is my counselor, Guru (Spiritual Leader), & Guide as well. Now I know as to who am I accountable to. By His Grace & promise I have Victory on Sin/ Sickness & passed from death to Life (John 5:24) .I am now fully aware that Palmistry, Numerology & Fortune-telling are instruments of devil. My future is secure with my Father. Holy Spirit is the Gift for me to speak to my Father, as per His instructions & for His Glory. Picture of Jesus is sin against God. (Ex-20:4, II Cor 5:16).Even the Cross is an idol.
20. In this New Life, I grow by the fellowship with my Father, reading, meditating on His Word – speaking & listening to Him, in Spirit (Unknown Language). Now that He has made me to be a gentleman. I can now do good works without being selfish. Good works done by me earlier could not make me good in the least bit of a sense. Now His love persuades me to love every human being. His love is Unilateral, Deep and Unconditional: Such great mercy, precious Grace & yet without price, without any effort: Compare to this wealth all the useful things of this world are good for nothing. People in this world become Saints (sadhu), denounce the society, go to mountains in search of Peace & happiness, to attain Moksha (Mukti, Nirwana) or adopt a man as Guru –who himself is groping in darkness-leading the multitude into a blind ally. Do we need proof? We can well see in the society – a person having wealth, wife, children, religion & Guru –is consoling himself that some time, somewhere, somehow, he will get Peace. A beggar & this wealthy man are equally in state of restlessness. Today there are people from all of the world religions; disciples of all the Gurus have experienced a deliverance from darkness through The Truth – revelation of God Almighty in His Word –Holy Bible: the Good News changed their lives totally. With His Grace & authority I can proclaim that all the 66 books (The Bible) is the Word of God on this earth, established in Heaven for ever & is revealed to man from time to time. (Psalm 119:89, Titus 1:3). Only Lord Jesus came to this world to save wretched sinners like me & not to destroy. Millions have experienced this Truth, from all walks of life & religions.
Burial of my Old –Person ------ Baptism (Immersion). 21. On 04 July, I was exonerated: declared Not Guilty of any charge. I met the same servant of God, who had prayed for me. After listening to my experience he taught me the necessity of water baptism,since I was a born-again person now. I refused, since I thought that it was a ritual of Christian Religion. He explained "The Creator of the river Jordan himself walked down as a man even through the water & dipped as fulfilling the Righteousness of God in most humble way. If I want to follow Him, I must follow His footsteps. On 07 Jul I was walking back from the swimming pool, I began communing with my Father; He told me "You are answerable to me. This is my commandment & not of any priest/ church. Your mother & brother will not be answerable, but yourself only,when you stand before Me. " Instead of going back to my room I made it to the prayer house straightaway. I declared my determination to obey God. Next morning on 08 July'79,I was immersed (baptized) as per Mt.28:19 (by the authority of The Father & the Son & the Holy Spirit),commending myself in the Hands of God with pure conscience(1Pet3: 20,21 )fulfilling the counsel of God (Luke 7:30) & His Righteousness (Mt 3:15 ), burying my old person & rising up to walk in newness of Life (Rom 6:3-11) & above all putting on Christ (Gal 3:27).Thus I am included in the family of God-Almighty & have the Authority to be His child (John1:12) . All the castes/ tribes are of no meaning or higher/lower level now, for me. 22. I have absolutely nothing to do with Christian Religion. There is a difference of East & West in the Word of God & the ethics of Christian religion . Christmas/ Good Friday/ Easter etc are neither related nor recommended by the Bible in any sense. These all are festivals of Xian religion. These are the cover names of Greek festivals adopted by Roman Empire Constantine in 4 th century. It's popular as Roman Catholics/ Protestants is an offshoot of the same now a days. (Though Martin Luther did condemn all the rituals & practices).All religions are man made.Man needs relationship with God & change of heart.Change of religion & name is man made tradition. Its a nuisence.The believers do take an oppertunity to share the good news with people who are having a holiday on this pretext. It's the work of Holy Spirit (God) through the Word of God, to change a person's heart from the world to God; setting him free from the fallacy of religion & bondage of darkness. We can walk in the True Light, along with Him, by His strength. To have own name in the Book of Life & live by His strength is the highest Blessing a man can ever has. So have relationship with God today.
(1) The real condition of every person is this, as per the word of God - blind to reality,slave of sin,hands & legs are under the command, as a slave, of the god of this world. '(2) Even though there was no change in my circumstances,but the joy of reconciliation with my Real Father was so immense ,that the experience of real freedom was at the core of my heart.
If you have any questions / prayer requests – please, let me serve you !
TIMOTHEUS (BAHL), P.O.Box-1,Kangra=176001–Himachal Pradesh- India
Listen on the net when you are busy working on Computer.... www.thevoiceasia.com all the time, 24X7 - a Testimony every half an hour.
Let nothing cripple your LOVE, shatter your HOPE, corrode your FAITH, trouble your PEACE, destroy your CONFIDENCE. And let GOD perfect his work in your precious life.
God bless you all the way !
Timotheus (BAHL),
P.O.Box-1, Kangra-176001,
Himachal Pradesh,
094184-69567
www.jorimchildrenhome.org
God Himself Reveals --- What is The Truth ?
Capt. Shashi Kant Bahl (ex-army)
Before I came to know The Truth, my views were that Life is a myth, a dream, an endless struggle, and a play and I am- a stage-player. With such a confused picture of life I concluded that life is mysteriously a puzzle filled with unsolved and unsettled riddles. Many a times I even thought that God is a research of weaklings and an orthodox idea. However, a real search continued deep down in my heart to find out The Truth. Being an officer in the Indian Army I kept myself busy in other things rather than seriously pursuing after my search for The Truth.
2. I, Shashi Kant Bahl, was raised up in a staunch Arya Samaj family. My father Shri. R.L. Behl, was a well-known person to open new fields for the sake of religion. As such I had access to Arya Samaj, Gurudwara, temples, and grave of a Muslim-Pir for worship. For me all religions and gods were one and the same. Though they are all contrary to each other. While chanting the Mantras I used to see the respective god with my closed eyes. I had been on pilgrimage from Kashmir in the north to Kanya-Kumari in the south. In spite of my religiosity, there was still a vacuum in my heart and I did not know the remedy to remove this vacuity.(I lived in Dehra Dun,).
3. Finally I decided to join Swami Vivekananda Movement of "Oneness of All and Serve the Mankind." Though I believed that an idol is nothing and God is in our heart, yet I continued to worship the idols with great reverence. While offering religious prayers and reading sacred books a few questions haunted me: "How can I serve anyone without being selfish (NISWARTH) in this world? On the other hand I had participated in the prayer meetings of Saibaba's followers and had regards for Shirdi Saibaba. I honored all religions and visited their places of worship.
4. Although I had a very low opinion about Christianity, I still attended few Church services. Once I was told about the Eucharist in a Roman Catholic Church that they were in the row "having confessed all their sins." In a flash of moment I said:" I can never recollect all of my sins; so let me stay away from this."
5. One day, on 30th December 1977, since I had many questions and arguments, a minister of the Gospel presented me with a New Testament. I read it with great reverence. I liked the teachings and underlined many passages. I also started appropriating and adopting many of the teachings and began teaching them to my subordinates. While reading John 20:29, a small-voice from within spoke: "God! Can I be the one to believe on you like that?" I didn't wait for the answer, as I got suddely busy, in my own, with my new responsibilities on the Indo-Pak Border Post.
6. I still regarded Jesus Christ as a god of Christian religion. Meanwhile I came across many Anglo-Indians professing Christianity but having nothing to testify about Christ. One day I met an Evangelist and got so angry with him that I ridiculed and graded him as an American Agent, accusing him of making strategic plans to make us slaves through Conversion?
7. In the evening of Monday, 22nd January 1979, I had stepped out on a major journey of my life. Next morning I found myself in Army Custody, handcuffed and blindfolded.(1) I continued , as it had been practice for many years to observe fasting and prayer every Tuesday and full moon nights. While in the custody I began observing them more devotedly & in addition -- 7 times Hanuman Chalseesa, Mantras of Vedas (Gayatri-Sandhya, Maha-Mritanjaya), Ramayana of Tulsi Das, Geeta, prayers to Shiva, Krishna, Durga and Nanak Dev (partially Ardass/Japaji Sahib) and even to St. Jude of Roman Catholicism. I had learnt 10 Kalma of Islaam & once in a while I would simply pay respect to that faith as well. In spite of all this my mental tension was increasing every moment. The more I chanted these Mantras the demon spirits oppressed me all the more.(I had recited Mahamrutanjaya mantra for 31 thousand times, exclusively). I realized that my good ideals, good deeds, religiosity, my social influence, my wealth were altogether useless, helpless and trash without God. I became so much mentally tense that for 72 hours I did not even feel sleepy. I was mentally getting set for dying than to live, once I am set free from the Custody.( just as mentioned in Psalm 116:3, 118:5). I wrote down my last will on a piece of a paper, regarding my assets.
CONVERSION OF Life/ Heart
8. On 08th June 1979, (139 days after my Custody) I got a book called "The Power of Positive Thinking" from the Army Officers' Library. I learned from the book that God is Gracious and a Loving Father. He is neither happy nor had He desired for me to suffer; that I am suffering since I am a destitute, naked and a wretched sinner, a rebel against God; walking in the opposite direction and away from the Presence of God. I realized that the more I followed the man-made religions, the farther I was going from God. For that matter, an Atheist was just one step ahead of me.Prime sin is "not knowing my creator & my savior"John 16:8,9.-New Testament.
SELF-REALIZATION
9. I was considered by my elders in the society as a man of high ideals and finer principles with good sense of morality and no vices to give up. But at the same time I never thought of evaluating my own standard of 'good morality' with God's standard of Righteousness. What man approves and commends may not measure up to what God approves. Every person, a friend or a relative, whosoever came in contact with me, thought I was some one different and found my life style truly fascinating. I sincerely thought I was leading a right kind of life before God, until one day God revealed it to me that I was sincerely wrong.
10. Such realization brought me face to face with the reality of my own sinfulness and how that I was leading a life that was diametrically opposite to God. As Prophet Isaiah said that all my good deeds and religious works were "as filthy rags" before God. (Isaiah 64:6).
11. I began to examine my past retrospectively. The Word of God, which is the Mirror for one's life, showed me distinctly all my sins . I found myself as an incorrigible sinner deserving God's wrath and punishment. Although worldly-wise I lived fairly a good life – I could forgive people, honored elders, sympathetic to the poor and needy, and took no pride in my rank and status – these good traits stood no chance to earn God's forgiveness. My inner motives were so corrupt that even in the 'Holy Places of Worship' I lusted after women irrespective of their age and status and even the goddesses did not escape my lustful eyes. In those days I had a strong desire to become a notorious decoit with prize on my head: just to rob the rich to give it to poor. Evidently my sins stood as a barrier between God and me."who am I?" The answer is "a wretched sinner,who does not deserve mercy."
12. The realization that I was a slave to sinful desires and deeds eventually drove me to seek forgiveness from God Almighty. (Since up-till this point I was biased towards Jesus Christ). I confessed my sins to God Almighty – Who created me, gave me breath & blood in my body. (Since I had no one to guide me, I kept confessing my sins, one by one for 3 days).I deeply regretted, when I thought I should have come to the real Father long ago. The delay was clearly on my part, as I believed in the rebirth and transmigration of the soul into something or someone else rather than a person being born-again (as taught by JESUS CHRIST). I had been under the misconception that I was some-one in my 'previous life.' The Word of God cleared my mistaken belief that man is physically born only once. There is no cycle of births. This is evident from Hebrews 9:27 "It is appointed unto men once to die and after this the judgment." It is clear beyond an argument that I am born for the first time on this earth and after this, if I refuse to accept God's offer of His (Love,Forgiveness)Salvation, I must be ready to face the final judgment of God- to live in hell for ever. He gave me the assurance of forgiveness . (the symptom of forgiveness was- hatred for my past sinful way of life, Peace of heart & mind, inspite of no change in the situation.)
PRAYER ANSWERING GOD
13. During these days of my walk with God -Almighty, I had an opportunity to experience the power of prayer. While reading through the book, I came across a powerful saying of Christ: "Therefore I say unto you, whatsoever things ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." (Mark 11:24).It was a scorching hot summer in June, one night the electricity went off. On enquiring, soldiers on duty-they said that due to damages to Power Transformers (50 kilometers away) at Power Station, the power supply was cut off. I then sat down and prayed like a child and asked God to restore the power supply. In just five minutes the power came back. I did not hesitate to tell the sentries around that God has heard my prayers. (Till now I had not realized that I am following the Words of Jesus.)
ONLY GOD HEALS
14. In February 1979, I had developed a sever kind of skin disease. It got worsened in-spite of medication. Now in June, I believed in God who says in Exodus 15:26 "I am the Lord that heals you." (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24). By faith I applied little ointment on the skin and prayed, "God this is only an instrument, but you are the healer."I did not know anything more of prayer. The next morning after bath, I found my skin absolutely clean of all ailments!
FAITH WE NEED
15. The Word of God says: Hebrews 11:6"Without faith, it is impossible to please God ." We see people deceiving themselves by placing their faith on man and on man-made principles. This kind of faith is superstitious and proves fatal at the time of real test. Its blind Faith. The Word of God prepares our hearts to have faith on God as we read through His Word (Romans 10:17). Faith comes from Him. Faith on God based on man's word, is blind Faith.
REVELATION OF THE TRUTH
16. Though I began to feel comfortable, even while living in the room (custody), I did not realize the Lordship of JESUS. My birthday was due on 15 June. So I sought permission to visit any Priest on that day. I did not get any response. Thus on that day I walked out of my room challenging the sentries & authorities. Soon a group of senior officers walked into my room. They had a large tray of roses & sweets. They wished me a happy birthday. I was then asked about my reaction to the situation, if I was in their shoes ? When I answered, they were startled & at a total loss to say anything & left my room. I began to read my book. God told me "Be still & know that I am God (Ps 46:10)". I sat back comfortably leaving the situation for Him to solve. Soon I was asked to move to visit the Priest –I regarded him as a Christian priest. (Since Hindu & Sikh priests were not available on that day.) This priest was well aware that I am biased towards Christianity. I had to persist on for good 20 minutes that he must bless me, since it's my birthday. Laying hands on my head he prayed in few words. He then offered me a New Testament again to read. Back in my room I came & read through its first chapter as I used to read my religious books.
17. Next morning, 16 June, approximately at 0650 hrs, while getting out of sleep, I heard a loud & clear voice " Little did I wonder I strengthen you" .It was old style English –which I was not so used to. I just felt amused & very casually credited the Voice to the god of Christian religion. Next day late in the evening (around 2245 hrs), up in starry sky, I saw a large circle of green light & yellow at the center. I had a transistor in my hand & was standing, listening film songs. (I recollected of having seen lights/ stars flashing in my room- while I was doing my religious prayers.)
On third day, 17thJune, also while getting out of sleep I heard myself speaking " how long will I live?" In reply, immediately, I heard "TIMOTHEUS". This means "honoring God"- in Greek language. I began finding the age of Timotheus in the Bible. (Since I believed in my previous birth, I was a NAZI–soldier & thus I must suffer the result of my deeds). I credited this voice too to the Christian-god).
On fourth day,19Jun, at daybreak, while I was just about to open my eyes, I heard a thundering voice, as of hundred water- falls, in my room " I shall change the law, I will kill justice, I will give you mercy."(James1:13b) I still felt amused & credited it too to Christian-god. (Staying there for almost five months, I had become physically weak but still not a bit scared of hearing The Voice in my room.) As such I should be considered spiritually blind, deaf & dumb. (2 Corinthians 4:4, Job 33:14).I rather wanted to see the priest & ask him the meaning of his god's message. After this I went to routine bath & as usual began reciting the Chaleesa. Only twice I had finished & a Small Still Voice spoke from within me, commanding me to " Stop, do not say this anymore." I stopped obediently & began to ponder – "only Satan hinders & causes confusion /doubts. While following the Truth, who is this stopping me to Pray to God?"(I did feel I am praying to God only.)
GOD REVEALS HIMSELF 18. I came back in my room, sat down to pray & ask "God, who is this stopping me to pray to You." Now the Holy Spirit began to communicate within my spirit. The Small Still Voice spoke to me "I am above all (Ps 135:5,John 10:29).I have brought you from the face of all these to Myself. " "What should I pray then?" I asked. Since chanting Mantra etc had been my prayers. Then He said "You have learnt from the book pray for others needs ." (Once I am His child, I need not to worry for myself.) Instead of 45 minutes I was free in 15 minutes or so. (I prayed for others in custody, there were above 170), in hospital, in Quarter-Guard & at home –family members. While doing so I could not view any of the gods'. While thinking about them, God began asking me " Now what shape or face do you want to see? Did you see any figure when you saw the lights?" I replied, "No, there was no face. But I had heard the words in Biblical language. So let me see their Jesus– with long hair and beard ." Then He began to explain, "It was necessary that I must come in human form to speak to man. So that he may listen & follow me (Isaiah 43:10). If I had spoken from above, man would have feared to death (Exodus 20:19). Do not acknowledge that shape of man (2 Corinthians 5:16) but follow the teachings given in the name of Jesus Christ (John 8:31-32). " I still insisted & asked, "Let me see the cross at least, which is of X-ians. Then came the commanding reply " that is also a sign of wood. I am unlimited & you cannot limit me to a symbol. You shall not bow to any shape, sign, thing or a person (Exodus20: 4-5) (now I know clearly He became cursed for my sake on the cross, nailed my sin-plate on that. There is no holiness in that cross.) My hand is upon your head."(1Peter5:6).I said, " That's all correct" & bowed my head. Again I heard strongly in my spirit, "Whom do you bow now?" " To You, Almighty Father." He then explained "I am inside you now. Not outside." (1John 4:4) As I further began to think of seeing the priest, God began telling me, " Whatsoever was to be accomplished by my servant, it has been done. Both of you are dust. I am your Guru .(John 13:13 ).I will teach you all The Truth.(John 14:26)You have heard My Voice, seen the Light (with my ears & eyes respectively).I am that I am; Self –existent & not because of your belief . (Ex 3:14, John 8:58)" (2) I then asked " how should I know more about you & what do I read ?" My Father replied "Read the words of Jesus. That is My letter for every human being.( It does not belong to any religion.)"This was the point of my separation from the old- life, religiousness. God did tolerate me till I was prepared in my heart to accept His instructions as a child. When He saw I was ready, He told me categorically & I did not question-Why?Obedience to His command was source of Joy for me.
19. Then onwards I began to pray to God –Almighty, as I am speaking to my real Father: Because now He is my Real Father. I need not to look for any shape or sign to concentrate. Thus every day He began to teach me & clearing my misconceptions. My God is Living. He is inside me & speaks to me. Prior to this Satan (the person of evil-power), was inside me & was ruling my life. In his slavery I was living comfortably sinful life & religious as well. I am now set free from chains of Satan –with total change in my attitude towards God & the world of sin, sickness, curses of forefathers. Baptism of Holy Spirit As God had taught me to pray for others. I was literally carefree about my situation & was tottally engrossed about welbeing of many like me or in bad & worse condition or sick & tormented otherwise. while doing so I went to bed & soon I heard myself speaking some kind of English with no meaning. My tongue came in my jaws & so I woke up. |( I could not understand this phenomena untill prior to water baptism, I heard the Pastor speaking to the believers"I know this man was against Jesus & now he has spoken in Tongues") So this gift is for all who are born of God. ( Acts 2:38,39, John 7:37-38, Mark 16:17, 1 Cor 14:2,4). I am under Grace now to receive Wisdom & Strength from Him to live. No more Do's & Don'ts; no more any religion. Holy Spirit is my counselor, Guru (Spiritual Leader), & Guide as well. Now I know as to who am I accountable to. By His Grace & promise I have Victory on Sin/ Sickness & passed from death to Life (John 5:24) .I am now fully aware that Palmistry, Numerology & Fortune-telling are instruments of devil. My future is secure with my Father. Holy Spirit is the Gift for me to speak to my Father, as per His instructions & for His Glory. Picture of Jesus is sin against God. (Ex-20:4, II Cor 5:16).Even the Cross is an idol.
20. In this New Life, I grow by the fellowship with my Father, reading, meditating on His Word – speaking & listening to Him, in Spirit (Unknown Language). Now that He has made me to be a gentleman. I can now do good works without being selfish. Good works done by me earlier could not make me good in the least bit of a sense. Now His love persuades me to love every human being. His love is Unilateral, Deep and Unconditional: Such great mercy, precious Grace & yet without price, without any effort: Compare to this wealth all the useful things of this world are good for nothing. People in this world become Saints (sadhu), denounce the society, go to mountains in search of Peace & happiness, to attain Moksha (Mukti, Nirwana) or adopt a man as Guru –who himself is groping in darkness-leading the multitude into a blind ally. Do we need proof? We can well see in the society – a person having wealth, wife, children, religion & Guru –is consoling himself that some time, somewhere, somehow, he will get Peace. A beggar & this wealthy man are equally in state of restlessness. Today there are people from all of the world religions; disciples of all the Gurus have experienced a deliverance from darkness through The Truth – revelation of God Almighty in His Word –Holy Bible: the Good News changed their lives totally. With His Grace & authority I can proclaim that all the 66 books (The Bible) is the Word of God on this earth, established in Heaven for ever & is revealed to man from time to time. (Psalm 119:89, Titus 1:3). Only Lord Jesus came to this world to save wretched sinners like me & not to destroy. Millions have experienced this Truth, from all walks of life & religions.
Burial of my Old –Person ------ Baptism (Immersion). 21. On 04 July, I was exonerated: declared Not Guilty of any charge. I met the same servant of God, who had prayed for me. After listening to my experience he taught me the necessity of water baptism,since I was a born-again person now. I refused, since I thought that it was a ritual of Christian Religion. He explained "The Creator of the river Jordan himself walked down as a man even through the water & dipped as fulfilling the Righteousness of God in most humble way. If I want to follow Him, I must follow His footsteps. On 07 Jul I was walking back from the swimming pool, I began communing with my Father; He told me "You are answerable to me. This is my commandment & not of any priest/ church. Your mother & brother will not be answerable, but yourself only,when you stand before Me. " Instead of going back to my room I made it to the prayer house straightaway. I declared my determination to obey God. Next morning on 08 July'79,I was immersed (baptized) as per Mt.28:19 (by the authority of The Father & the Son & the Holy Spirit),commending myself in the Hands of God with pure conscience(1Pet3: 20,21 )fulfilling the counsel of God (Luke 7:30) & His Righteousness (Mt 3:15 ), burying my old person & rising up to walk in newness of Life (Rom 6:3-11) & above all putting on Christ (Gal 3:27).Thus I am included in the family of God-Almighty & have the Authority to be His child (John1:12) . All the castes/ tribes are of no meaning or higher/lower level now, for me. 22. I have absolutely nothing to do with Christian Religion. There is a difference of East & West in the Word of God & the ethics of Christian religion . Christmas/ Good Friday/ Easter etc are neither related nor recommended by the Bible in any sense. These all are festivals of Xian religion. These are the cover names of Greek festivals adopted by Roman Empire Constantine in 4 th century. It's popular as Roman Catholics/ Protestants is an offshoot of the same now a days. (Though Martin Luther did condemn all the rituals & practices).All religions are man made.Man needs relationship with God & change of heart.Change of religion & name is man made tradition. Its a nuisence.The believers do take an oppertunity to share the good news with people who are having a holiday on this pretext. It's the work of Holy Spirit (God) through the Word of God, to change a person's heart from the world to God; setting him free from the fallacy of religion & bondage of darkness. We can walk in the True Light, along with Him, by His strength. To have own name in the Book of Life & live by His strength is the highest Blessing a man can ever has. So have relationship with God today.
(1) The real condition of every person is this, as per the word of God - blind to reality,slave of sin,hands & legs are under the command, as a slave, of the god of this world. '(2) Even though there was no change in my circumstances,but the joy of reconciliation with my Real Father was so immense ,that the experience of real freedom was at the core of my heart.
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TIMOTHEUS (BAHL), P.O.Box-1,Kangra=176001–Himachal Pradesh- India
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Let nothing cripple your LOVE, shatter your HOPE, corrode your FAITH, trouble your PEACE, destroy your CONFIDENCE. And let GOD perfect his work in your precious life.
God bless you all the way !
Timotheus (BAHL),
P.O.Box-1, Kangra-176001,
Himachal Pradesh,
094184-69567
www.jorimchildrenhome.org