Idell Koury

I was raised Catholic in

New Mexico and considered myself a religious person for I kept the Holy Days of Obligation and received the sacraments.  I didn’t know that religion was more than ritualism.  I was not a rebel, but fully participated in the world’s culture and habits—-no sweat, if I did something that the church taught was wrong, I could just go to confession on Saturday and not sin again until I received Holy Communion on Sunday!  My parents loved us and the sudden disappearance of my dad when I was eleven was a heartbreaking mystery. I looked for answers and knew in my heart that God was there.  I prayed to Him nightly and knew that someday I would understand life. 

 

While working for a U.S. Senator on Capitol Hill I began a quest to “find” God.  I lived alone and recalled what I heard Billy Graham say two years earlier. He said I could have a personal relationship with God.  For weeks I read my little-understood Bible every evening and one night God gave me complete peace that He heard my prayers and was revealing Himself to me.  Shortly afterward I met my future husband, Tony, who invited me to attend his church.  Billy Graham’s message was repeated at Tony’s church and this time it was abundantly clear to me. I understood that Jesus died for my sins and I went forward during the altar call to pray with the minister, confess my sins and receive Jesus into my heart. 

 

After I accepted Jesus as my Savior and received forgiveness for my sins, my life was transformed. I was engulfed by God’s love and supernatural grace. I fell in love with His Word and have learned to apply the practical guidelines He has given us for life.  I dedicated my life to following Him and telling family, friends and students about my Creator and Savior.  I’ve been through the Refiner’s fire, but have never lost my love for my Savior and Friend.  I will testify of His miraculous power, intervention and grace.  The more I live, the more I love Him. He answers prayers in His timing. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. He wants us to love Him and serve others.

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2 Comments

  1. Jay Powell Says:

    This mirrors some of my story. I was left by the same father (Archie) at a different time, and have wondered where some of the scattered part of my life is. It is good to see my sister has our Lord Jesus in her life. Still love you, would love to see you again. Alot to catch up on…. Jay

  2. Logan Bennett Says:

    Well I can say from experience that “your story” is an incredible inspiration to a developing mind. Your daily walk is a testimony to the reality of a relationship with the Lord of Lords and King of Kings that you so openly live. The two years of Journalism shaped my life more than you will ever know. I pray that God continues to Bless you mightily, and uses you for His Kingdom.

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