Michael Bell

The week before I almost died in a drive-by, I was in my room, on my knees, praying to God. I

In a way I had never experienced before, I felt God asking me, “Will you give Me your life?” And I answered, “Here I am.” Now, I had completely forgotten about this prayer, and a week later, I went on vacation with a family friend to Panama City Beach.

We were riding our bikes when out of nowhere, a truck pulled up beside me, rolled down their back window, pulled a gun on me, and fired. I just heard a loud pop sound, followed by extreme pain in my left eye.

Everything went dark as I heard crying, praying, and ambulances all around me. However, in that moment, my life didn’t flash before my eyes.

There was no panic or anger. I actually felt peace.

I knew that I wasn’t alone because God was with me, and because He was with me, I wasn’t afraid.

After multiple surgeries and weeks of waiting, my doctors told me that I would never be able to see again.

I asked God, “Why would you let this happen to me?” and He answered.

Throughout my recovery, I began to see the ways God was working through my suffering.

Thousands of people I had never met were praying for me. My family grew closer. My faith became something I depended on as God formed in me mental strength, spiritual maturity, and deeper trust in Him. I knew He wasn’t done with me.

I didn’t know my “yes” to God would look like this, but it made me into who I am today, and for that I am grateful.

Though I am permanently blind in my left eye, I’ve been able to see the way that God redeems our suffering.

All we have to do is give it to Him and trust in His timing.

Nothing given to God is ever wasted.

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