I wanted all the benefits of a relationship with God without completely surrendering my life to Him. I lived both in the world and of it, while trying to maintain the appearance of a good Christian. That double life led to constant inner conflict and turmoil, but all that changed when I handed over the reigns to the Lord and surrendered my will to Him in every aspect.

Soon, I began to comprehend what matchless grace and mercy God had bestowed on me, a real sinner — He saved me, not only from an eternity separated from Him, but also from many consequences of my sinful lifestyle. I continue to battle the desires of the flesh and the Enemy, Satan, who seeks to prevent me from telling others about God’s wonderful grace and mercy, free to us at the cost of His son’s life.

Daily, I make the choice to die to myself and let Christ rule my heart and mind for every thought and action. After many years of believing Satan’s lie that giving my life to Christ meant a life without pleasure and “good” things, I discovered quite the opposite — the more I decrease and He increases, the richer and more abundant my life becomes

Laura Bailey is an author and Bible teacher who encourages others to understand what they believe, why it matters, and how to apply biblical truths to their lives. Her writing has been featured in Proverbs 31 Ministries, Crosswalk, Guideposts, and other Christian publications. Laura holds a certificate in Biblical Women's Studies from SEBTS, serves as a workplace chaplain, and has written multiple books and Bible studies.

She lives in Upstate South Carolina with her husband and 3 daughters. She attends Macedonia Baptist Church, where she is the Women's Ministry Director and teaches Bible studies weekly.

Follow her on Instagram and Facebook. @LauraBaileyWrites