Mary Charf

I thank God for a precious mother, a godly woman who knew how to approach the Throne of God. She had nine children, and was determined in her heart that each one of us would make Heaven our home. Seven are with her in Heaven now, and my sister and I look forward to joining them someday soon.

The love of God in our home was wonderful, and we often witnessed His power in our lives. My father was not a Christian, but Mother knew how to prevail before God when trouble, such as sickness, came our way.

There was no mistaking God’s call to salvation when Holy Ghost conviction settled on me. The Portland camp meeting was coming up, and for two weeks, I was paralyzed with fear that I would not have the ability to trust God for salvation or to serve Him faithfully once I was saved. Finally, God spoke to me and said, “Today is the day that you are going to go to camp meeting and get saved.” I called all my relatives and friends and told them I was coming home to camp meeting. Then I made restitution before going to Portland. At the altar of prayer, I met Jesus. I bowed before Him, and His precious Blood washed away every sin. He wrote my name in Heaven.

While I was still praying, I said, “Lord, I will never be closer to You than this; sanctify me,” and He did. Then I said, “Lord I will never be closer to You than this; baptize me with the mighty Holy Spirit,” and He did.

God has been with me through the years. He has helped me, led me, and healed me. When I was seventy-nine, I became very ill and there did not seem to be any hope for me. My daughter told me, “There comes a time when we must just go.” I told her I was willing and then we discussed funeral arrangements. After she left the room, the Great Physician came down and healed me. I am thankful for the power that is in the Blood of Jesus. Nothing is impossible with Him.

God has been a true friend to me, and I thank Him for it.