Before Jesus Changed My Life
I grew up in a Christian home, went to church and Sunday School every week, and even completed confirmation. Even though I believed in the existence of Jesus, I never gave Him my all of life; I tried to maintain control over parts of my life and live according to my own plans rather than his. The Bible makes it clear that all people are sinners, and sin separates us from God. Looking back, I can see that I was trying to be my own God instead of trusting the One who created me. Even when I was going my own way, God kept showing me that His plans were better than mine. He was patient with me and continually drew me closer to Him.
How Jesus Changed My Life
I’ve always liked having control over my life—especially when it came to planning my future. One example is when I started college and picked a major that I quickly realized wasn’t for me. I couldn’t control what my future would look like, and that uncertainty exposed the fact that I didn’t truly trust God. During that time, God used prayer, Scripture, and people in my life to show me that I needed more than just belief in my head—I needed to surrender my heart. The Bible says in Proverbs 3:5–6 to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” God was calling me to trust in his plans because he is a much better God over my life than I am.
It became clear that my real problem wasn’t just stress about the future—it was sin. I wanted control, independence, and my own way, but the good news of the gospel says that God saves sinners through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 5:8). Even though I was a sinner who tried to live life on my own terms, Jesus died on the cross to pay the price for my sin. He rose again so I could be forgiven, made new, and have eternal life with Him. When I realized that I needed to do more than just believe in Jesus, I surrendered my life to Him.
My Life After Jesus Saved Me
Since Jesus saved me, I don’t have to live in the same fear and anxiety I used to because someone far greater than I is in control. Instead of constantly worrying or trying to have things go according to my own plan, I can trust God’s plan and can go to Him in prayer. When challenges come, I don’t have to rely on my own strength because I know that He is with me, He loves me, and He is working all things for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28). Christ gave me forgiveness, purpose, and a hope that isn’t based on circumstances. I know I’m saved not because of my own merit, but because of His grace. My desire is to live my life for Christ and share the same good news that anyone who puts their faith in Jesus will be saved.