West Hartselle Baptist Church
Sgt. Redfearn, know what your problem is?” That “in-your-face” statement was a challenge from the Lord to me through the witness of a young black Marine who was unashamed of Jesus and unafraid of me. This frontal assault on my psyche happened while I was stationed with the Marines at Camp Lejeune, N.C., in the spring of 1979.
My job was providing communications for the 10th Marine Regiment (an artillery tank unit) while on a field mission in the pine woods surrounding Camp Lejeune. I was the acting platoon sergeant and life was chaotic. I had not slept for two days, and the pressures of my life were mounting. My wife and I were expecting our first child, and I had no idea how I would support my family with just a few months left in the Marine Corps.
Finally the day ended and I returned to my tent to get some rest. At about 11 p.m., I was ordered to drive a young black sergeant to several radio sites.
I was irritated about the order. I thought to myself, “Why can’t he drive himself around? I need sleep more than he needs a ride!”
I didn’t hide my anger from this young man as we drove down the road in the middle of the night to the next communication spot on our map. I remember saying things to him that should never have been said. He patiently listened as I “ran my mouth” and then with a voice of conviction, said, “Sgt. Redfearn, know what your problem is?” I replied, “All right, you tell me what my __________ problem is!” He said, “You just need Jesus in your life.”
He was right. Jesus was what I needed in life. I finished my duties around 3 a.m. and went into the nearby woods for a time of reflection and prayer. I poured my soul out to God and told Him I was through being the boss of my life. I told Him that I believed that Jesus died on a cross for my sins, was buried and was raised from the dead. I asked Him to forgive me and help me live for Him. He heard my cry and saved my soul.
No doubt about it, the greatest need in life is to “know what your problem is” so you can receive Jesus, the Answer to every problem.
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