Before Jesus Changed My Life

Before Jesus changed my life, I would always search for happiness in worldly things like going out, drinking, and having lustful intentions with women. I thought that those things would satisfy me, but they never did, which is why we keep going back for more. God showed me that the things of the world will never please me. “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world – the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life – is not from the Father but is from the world.” (1 John 2:15-16)

How Jesus Changed My Life

After Jesus showed me that the things of the world will not be pleasing, and that going after what my flesh desires will only lead to dissatisfaction, he showed me how putting my faith in him would lead to much more. I believe he brought me to Iowa knowing I would meet other people who were looking for Jesus as well. He brought me to Veritas, where I first went to Salt Co. and met C-group leaders who helped me grow in my relationship with Christ. Guys who challenged me in my faith and wanted to see me grow. Praise Jesus for his work in my life and for placing me in a great community like Veritas that loves Jesus and wants to see me grow closer to him. I believe this year was when I grew closest to Christ with the help of community, by creating strong rhythms, and getting into the Word more than ever, which led me to change how I lived. The gospel is the story of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection. How God sent his one and only son to die for our sins. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” ‭‭(John‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭17‬)‬‬

My Life After Jesus Saved Me

After Jesus saved me, I changed the things I participate in. I have found joy in reading the Bible and leaning into prayer when I am unsure. I enjoy going to church and prefer to be in community with other believers. I have started a Bible study with 2 other believers in Christ to share the Word with my basketball teammates. My goal has shifted to doing everything I can to glorify God in all things I do. I know, because of Jesus’ grace, that my sins are forgiven, I have eternal life in and with him, and I am motivated to live my life for him.