Limey, I am really trying to express myself in the most humble way but honest. If I come off as condescending my apologies.
That said, I interpret the tone of several on here has pretty harsh and judgmental against me for preaching Jesus. I didn't expect atheists to come out of the woodwork especially on a thread with a topic that seems irrevelant. I perceive there are a lot of disgruntled people here. I'm just telling it like it is. I mean, "Delusions"? Seriously?
I don't look down on anyone. I wouldn't call anyone an "apostate". I think I am a down to earth person and I try to be cool with everyone.
You asked how did He manifest Himself to me. True story. I visited this Church for the first time for a Friday night praise and worship. While they were praising and worhsiping God I got on my knees and started crying out to God from the depths of my soul and the bottom of my heart telling Him I was sorry. I was mourning over my many, many sins. My face was wet from tears.
Minutes after some young woman walked in the sanctuary and asked if she could pray for me. I acted cynical and was like "yeah whatever". She puts her hand on my shoulder and she didn't say anything aloud as I expected. She starting to tear up. I am thinking what is going on? She then prophesies and tells me things about me. I'm shocked because she doesn't know nor do I know her. Remember this is my first time at the church. Soon after the Holy Spirit envelopes me and if it was if God is saying to me I forgive you and I am with you and I am here to comfort you. That moment was probably the most conformting moment of my life. Indeed the Holy Spirit is the Comforter.
The scripture that came to mind after that experience was when God told Moses His goodness will pass before him. I felt the tangible goodness of God envelope me and that stayed with me for several days.
Even still the most shocking of it all was not the supernatural experience but it was how God could forgive me after all what I have done. This happened years ago and reminscensing still moves my heart. God indeed is full of mercy. When one becomes broken and contrite before God He is not far from that person.
That is just one of many experiences I've had.