Googling for God

I have friends all over the world I can visit without showing a passport. They may live in restricted-access countries or on my street. I visit them via the internet.

Each time I enter the chat room at The Life, the Holy Spirit shows up too. The “room” fills up quickly. Some come to learn and some to listen. A few come as messengers from the enemy to disturb those with open hearts to God. Every day I pray that the Holy Spirit will bring those who have open hearts, those who are calling out to God for help and hope. God always answers that prayer.

On average, the room receives between 15 to 20 guests who may stay for the evening (though there may be up to 50 “come and go” visitors). Over 18 months, I have had the privilege of assisting many people to faith in Jesus Christ.

Although people are open to the gospel everywhere, it seems less intimidating to ask questions in a chat room and so people discover truth much more quickly. Guests can leave instantly (and they do) if they have an “unpleasant” experience.

Recently, Cindy (not her real name) came online, using the nickname Creepy. The name caught my attention and I asked about it. “This god stuff is creepy,” she said.

I asked her why she had come then. “Because I want to get saved,” she replied. “Can you help me get saved?” (God always surprises me.)

When I asked her why she thought she might like to “be saved,” she responded, “Because my mom died and she told me that if I would get saved, I would see her again in heaven. Will I die if I get saved?”

Cindy had promised her mom before she died that she would “get saved.” Her mother’s funeral had been that very day. Since she had no idea what it meant, she searched for God on Google and found the site.

I assured Cindy that Jesus had come to give her an abundant life and it was his plan that she should live a full and meaningful life and not die as soon as she is saved. Through the course of leading her to a personal faith, she mentioned she was turning 14 the next week. Would you say a prayer for Cindy?

In Isaiah 43:19, God says, “I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Much of the internet is a wasteland of self-indulgent, moral decadence. Nevertheless, in the midst of it, God is bringing a new message of hope to “captives.” He brings seekers to our room to ask questions and learn what it means to have a personal relationship with Christ.

Betty Loeppky attends Northview Church in Abbotsford, B.C. She has served with MBMS International and more recently with Campus Crusade for Christ.