Your number represents the age at which you accepted Jesus Christ.
Everyone’s number is different.
Everyone’s journey to Christ is different.
My number is 47, and it’s so amazing because God waited for me and kept me—even when I didn’t know Him.
I grew up in a family where my father taught us not to go to church. He would not allow it. He believed in positive thinking and that the universe controlled everything apart from God. As a result, faith was not part of my foundation.
I was always someone who would start things but couldn’t finish. Whenever life became too difficult, I would stop.
Life, Loss, and Searching Without God
I met my husband and married at 21 and his family was Christian. However, I saw other carnal Christians, so I still didn’t see anything that would cause me to believe. I worked very hard, and after having my three children, my life began to unravel.
I suffered a nervous breakdown that was precipitated by the worst panic attacks imaginable. Doctors prescribed medication that caused me to gain over one hundred pounds, but I followed their recommendations because I needed to be here for my children.
During that time, my thinking became dark and distorted. I even began to think that I should worship Satan—believing he might treat his people well without requiring church or accountability. Eventually, I became an atheist.
The years 2010 and 2011 were some of the worst of my life.
I struggled deeply with my youngest son, who began drinking heavily in high school. I was facing serious issues at my job of 20 years. My marriage was strained. I tried everything to fix it—but I couldn’t.
The Tug That Changed Everything
In the midst of the chaos, I felt a tug at my heart that said, “Look for a church.”
I Googled churches near me, and The Mount appeared. I heard Dr. King and felt led to go. On Resurrection Sunday, they performed a Gospel story play—and it blew me away.
On April 8, 2012, I accepted the Lord Jesus Christ.
At that moment, I received peace and blessings at the same time. Hallelujah!
From Salvation to Surrender
The Lord set me on fire to serve Him. I developed a fervent desire to serve Him every single day of my life.
I wanted to learn everything as quickly as possible, but when I realized growth takes time, I went back to seminary and earned a Master’s Degree in Christian Studies from Luther Rice College and Seminary. I now lead a ministry at my church and serve the Lord as often as I can—usually daily.
Answering the Call
In 2024, I felt God calling me to proclaim His Word, but I didn’t want to acknowledge it. Still, He didn’t go away.
In 2025, I spoke with my Pastor and accepted my call to ministry.
The Lord revealed that He wants me to shine His light within my family.
Stillness and Knowing
To God be the glory for all that He has done—and continues to do.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10
I’m still.
And now, I know.
WHAT'S YOUR NUMBER?
-Yvonne Stanley-