Nothing is in Vain
As parents and kids ministers, a question that often arises is: do our children understand what we teach them? Can they survive and hold on to the truth when the world constantly tries to attract them? Will what I do for them when they are young not be in vain when they enter adulthood?
A testimony was sent to us from a young professional in Jakarta, Michelle. We are sharing it today, and I hope it can be a strength and an inspiration for all of you who may still be filled with the questions above.
YOU ARE THE GOD OF HILLS AND VALLEYS
On December 23, 2022, my entire perspective of Christianity changed. It was a very shocking, bewildering, and confusing change, but it was overall the best-felt change I had ever experienced.
I have been a Christian from the moment I was born. My parents gave my life to Christ when I was just a few months old, and since then, I have followed the rules and regulations of being a good Christian until I turned nineteen.
Things happened when I started going to college. Life happened. There were a lot of ups and downs, a lot of gains and losses, and a lot of hate and love. But overall, I overcame every obstacle, test and trial that was thrown at me by the devil. By the grace of God, I can still survive, but do I always know He is with me? No.
There was a season in my life starting 2018 to 2022 when I knew that He was there with me, though I never tried connecting or building our relationship anymore. I rarely prayed to The Holy Spirit, if ever, and I slowly forgot what it meant to be a Christian. I removed myself from the grace of God because of all the other sins I grew very comfortable with and chose instead of Him.
But what is being a Christian? Simply put, being a Christian means having a very solid, honest, and raw relationship with Jesus Christ after you believe and confess that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior. Along those lines, we will be filled with longing to do everything according to His Word. At least that was the Christianity that I understood or was taught by the adults above me, but the reality was that it was all just theory for me.
I used to be a huge fan or supporter of ‘self-love,’ ‘pro-choice,’ occultism, witchcraft, and even demonic rituals. However, ‘self-love’ was what I gave credit to for the strength and courage I found within me, rather than praising The Lord. So even though I do not ‘practice’ their rituals, I always like to see, hear, learn and believe these things. So finally, I became like what I see, hear, and attract to it. At that moment, I gave my whole mind, heart, and soul to the devil and let him completely control my life.
But finally, a miracle happened! God touched my heart and mind and changed my whole life, starting from my perception of life, my thoughts, everything I believe/follow, and my faith. And when that happened, I realized that the way I have lived my life was not aligned with His Word.
I remembered every word I ever heard, and I began to fully realize that He was ALWAYS there with me until now. He lives in my heart; He is truly real. He understands me and even accepts me. At that moment, I could feel the peace that surpasses all understanding because I knew that everything I learned was not just a theory but a reality I personally experienced in my life.
Right now, I enjoy moments of praise and worship where I feel that His love is extraordinary, tireless, and perfect for me. The Holy Spirit guided me back to Him, and now my heart is filled with the joy of the Lord. I find peace even when I’m experiencing trials and tribulations. My days are filled with purpose, and every word I say comes out as a blessing. My heart is still, and my mind is quiet while my heart sings to praise Him.
He is a faithful God and is always with me.
For He is the God of the hills and valleys, He does not leave me alone.
I was lost, and now I am found.
(Michelle Budiman)
So parents and kids ministers, don’t stop doing what you’re doing right now! Nothing is in vain and useless. The God’s word that you sow will be planted and rooted in their heart. Your prayers will be the fence that guards and strengthens them even when they try to forget.
Survive, and one day you will see and enjoy the fruit.
Source : Ps. Ancella Gunawan (Global Kids Coordinator)
