A post about my faith, turn away if you don't like religious stuff.

The following post concerns religious subjects. If this isn't your cup of tea or you're easily offended/angered by it, I suggest you turn away.
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"Not only so, but we[a] also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." - Romans 5:3

I haven't picked up the bible in years. Well, before a few days ago. I remembered a time that an atheist friend referenced this verse for me. He doesn't believe in God's existence, but he can get down with the bible having useful wisdom. I heard him say this and replied, "Um...seriously? You?" Then he replied, "Um....yes? What do I learn from the good times? Almost nothing. What do I learn from suffering? A ****ton."

I didn't pick up the bible because every scripture I read or used for encouragement, there was always someone else to say "no it means this" or "no you're using it selfishly, you have to use it in this context."

If an atheist can benefit from God's Word, even though he doesn't believe in God, then why the heck am I using the opinion of MAN to stop God's Word from helping me during rough patches of life? Like...who are YOU to decide how God's Word gets me through the rough times? Who are YOU to interfere with how God's Healing and God's Work that puts strength back in these legs and arms that I thought were too spent to move anymore, that breathes life and energy into this weary and tired soul that's been battered around a little by life?

Just a little testimony I felt compelled to share.

It's completely okay if you disagree, I just ask that you be respectful.