Before Jesus Changed My Life
I grew up in a predominantly white community and in a household that didn’t believe in God. As I got older, I struggled to figure out who I was, and naturally, I tried to find my identity through my friends. I never truly felt like I fit in whether it was around my friends, family, or the other kids at school. I constantly felt the need to talk, act, and live like everyone around me. At the time, I didn’t know any better because I didn’t know God, and without Him, I didn’t understand who I was meant to be. Because of that, I carried a lot of anger and sadness that I didn’t know how to deal with. I would feel anxious and unsure of myself, and I leaned on worldly things for comfort, trying to fill that void.
How Jesus Changed My Life
In seventh grade, my best friend invited me to youth group for the first time. At first, it was just another place to hang out with my friends. But after a few months, something changed. I started to really listen and take in what was being said. I began calling myself a Christian but the reality is that I wasn’t. I went on a winter break retreat with the youth group, and that weekend was the first time I felt Jesus moving in my life. I left wanting to learn more about God and everything He’s capable of. However, after a few weeks, that feeling started to fade, and I didn’t think twice about it. Months later, I started visiting new youth groups with a friend, and that’s when we found Veritas, and never left. Over the summer of 2024, I went to YTH Camp for the first time. Camp opened my eyes in so many different ways. Romans 8:18 “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” This verse showed me that God will always be there to help pick me up and out of that hole. On the last night, the Holy Spirit worked through me as I gave my life to Christ. That night, He took away all my worries, anger, resentment, and loneliness, and replaced it with peace, a softened heart, and the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
My Life After Jesus Saved Me
Since giving my life to Christ, my whole perspective on life has changed. I’ve developed a deeper love and compassion for others, knowing that everyone is facing their own struggles. I’ve grown to understand and cherish the identity that God has given me as His child. My relationship with Him has become the most important part of my life. I find myself counting down the days until Sunday morning and Wednesday night. Excited to read my bible and spend time in worship. I know that God is with me at all times, even in the trials of life, and that I can come to Him with anything I face. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6. He gives me peace and strength when I need it most. I feel an urge to share God’s love with others and to be a light for those who may be struggling. “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16