This Stopped Me in My Tracks
Have you had an epiphany—big or small—that changed how you see things?
Back in 2017, I wrote an article for The Christian Post and within hours was called a “Jesus-loving racist” by someone claiming to be a fellow believer online.
At the time, I wasn’t sure if it was meant as an insult or if they genuinely didn’t understand who Jesus is, but it was definitely contradictory in and of itself—how can someone truly love Jesus and be a racist?
It made zero sense. I was caught off guard and honestly couldn’t help but laugh that I was actually called that.
The article wasn’t about liking or agreeing with Trump—it was a call for Christians to pray for him. Regardless of personal opinion, he was elected President, and Scripture calls us to pray for those in authority. It was about obedience to God’s Word, not political preference.
Either way, this situation taught me something—it stopped me in my tracks, because I realized not everyone who claims to be a Christian online truly is a disciple of Christ.
Has anything hit you recently—something that stopped you in your tracks and shifted your perspective? Have you had an epiphany—big or small—that changed how you see things?
And it reminded me of a moment in Scripture where someone else had their eyes suddenly opened to the truth…
That kind of moment reminds me of what happened to the disciples on the road to Emmaus. They were walking, talking, and honestly didn’t recognize that Jesus was right there with them. Then, suddenly, their eyes were opened:
“And it happened that when He had reclined at the table with them, He took the bread and blessed it, and after breaking it, He was giving it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him; and He vanished from their sight. And they said to one another, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while He was speaking to us on the road, while He was opening the Scriptures to us?’”— Luke 24:30–32 (LSB)
What felt ordinary became extraordinary. Their hearts were burning inside as Jesus explained the Scriptures, and everything clicked.
Sometimes God does that with us—He lets us go through life, sometimes missing what’s right in front of us, until He reveals the truth in a way we can’t ignore. That epiphany shifts everything, changes our perspective, and gets us back on track.
That moment taught me something that stopped me in my tracks: not everyone who claims to be a Christian or reads websites like The Christian Post truly understands what it means to follow Jesus. But here’s the thing—what others say about me doesn’t define me. I am not what people label me. I am who God says I am. And God doesn’t call me a Jesus-loving racist.
That truth is freeing. It reminds me to keep my eyes on Jesus, not on the opinions or accusations of others. Because ultimately, my identity is rooted in Him, and that’s unshakable.
So if you’ve had a moment like that recently—something that made you stop and see things differently—know you’re in good company. It’s part of the journey of being a disciple, learning to recognize God’s work even when it’s unexpected.
What’s a moment that recently stopped you in your tracks and changed how you see things?
Have you ever experienced an epiphany where God revealed something new to you unexpectedly?
How do you handle it when others misunderstand or mislabel you because of your faith?
What helps you stay grounded in your identity in Christ when faced with criticism or confusion?
In what ways has God opened your eyes to a truth you hadn’t seen before?
Enjoying this content? If you'd like to support my work and help me continue creating Bible-centered resources like this one, consider buying me a coffee! Your support truly means so much and plays a big part in keeping this work going.
And as a heartfelt thank you, those who either become a paid subscriber or Buy Me A Coffee will receive a FREE digital copy of my book, Redeem the Story. For the full benefits on becoming a paid subscriber click here!
Heads up: This post may include affiliate links. If you buy something, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you!
When I was in my mid-twenties I read With Justice for All by John Perkins and it helped me understand the power of incarnational ministry. That has guided my life since. That was one of a number of epiphanies. Taking time each day to read scripture and pray, opens us up to hear from God.
Great read, Aaron. I learned early on in my journalism career that I can't be personally offended by everything people say in response to articles I write. There will always be people who will respond this way, and it sounds like you took the right approach. God knows your heart and, like you said, that's what's most important!