I was not raised in a Christian home. In fact, my upbringing was filled with non-Christian experiences. From living with a step-parent with an undiagnosed mental illness, that caused him to behave in many unpredictable ways. By today’s standards, he probably would have been deemed an abuser, verbally, emotionally and sometimes physically. There were other family members in my life that were also abusive in other ways that I’m not going to get into here.
However, I am grateful for my Aunts and Grandmothers that were faithful believers. The limited time that I spent with them, will forever leave an impression on my heart. I honestly feel that I have always believed and truly feel that it was their love and examples that opened my heart to my true Father. Looking back on my difficult childhood and all I endured, I see that the choices I made as a young adult did nothing but harm myself further. All of these experiences taught me many lessons in endurance, perserverance and I eventually tapped into a strength I didn’t know I had. I could have continued feeling like a victim and searched for love and acceptance in all the wrong avenues, which were doing nothing to help me heal from my wounds.
When I accepted Jesus as my Savior, I was finally able to forgive others and myself, and to put my past behind me and only look forward. I haven’t forgotten all I have been through, but I no longer linger in the past. I accept that these experiences have made me who I am and have brought me to where I am today. The Lord has taught me to be more compassionate, patient and caring. Being saved has truly changed me to the core. I look forward to growing in my relationship with Jesus and I hope to show His love to others through my words and actions. Please, please believe that no matter what you are going through, God has a plan for you and He will be with you through everything.