My Life Before Christ
Before I knew Christ, my life was defined by brokenness, sin, and a constant search for identity. I was consumed by feelings of worthlessness, bitterness, and anger. I sought validation in accomplishments, approval from others, and self-reliance, but nothing could fill the emptiness inside me. Sin’s grip on my life led me into rebellion, pride, and a desire to control my own path. Even though I was surrounded by church as a child, I didn’t know the gospel or understand the depth of my need for a Savior.
I tried to cover my pain by striving to be more, to do more, and to gain recognition, but the harder I tried, the emptier I became. My heart was hardened by disappointment, resentment, and shame. I lived in fear of rejection and failure, and my sin only deepened the divide between me and God.
How I Came to Know Christ
At my lowest point, God intervened. Through the gospel, I saw for the first time that my sin was not just the result of broken circumstances but the rebellion of my heart against a holy God. I realized that my worth wasn’t tied to my achievements or failures but was secured through Jesus Christ. He lived the perfect life I couldn’t live, died the death I deserved, and rose again to offer me new life.
At a summer camp in 7th grade, I surrendered my life to Christ. It was the first time I truly understood grace—that I couldn’t earn salvation and didn’t deserve it, yet God freely gave it. I confessed my sin and placed my faith in Jesus as my Lord and Savior. That moment marked the beginning of a transformation that only God could accomplish.
My Life After Christ
After coming to Christ, my life changed in profound ways, but the battle with sin didn’t end. God began to expose the idols I had built—pride, self-reliance, and the pursuit of control—and He replaced them with His truth. He taught me to find my identity not in what I could achieve but in who He is. His Word became a lamp to my feet, guiding me to live in obedience and humility.
Even in my doubts and failures, God’s grace sustained me. When I struggled to believe His promises, He reminded me of His faithfulness. Through seasons of pride, He humbled me. Through moments of despair, He showed me the sufficiency of His love. When I was tempted to make education, ministry, or recognition an idol, He called me back to the cross and reminded me that His work is enough.
Today, I live with a deep awareness of my sin and an even greater awareness of God’s mercy. His grace has broken the chains of shame and self-reliance that once held me captive. He continues to sanctify me, revealing areas where I need to repent and trust Him more. My purpose is to glorify Him, to live in obedience, and to proclaim the gospel to others so that they too may experience His transforming power.