Finding Yourself through God

Author:Joel Teo

I am very blessed to be born into a Christian family and I have always believed Jesus was my one and only Saviour. I know that I am a sinner saved by God’s grace. I have forgotten as to when was my first time that I attended church or got to know Christ. I only knew, however, that I got to know Christ at a very early age. Although I was born into a Christian family, my faith had not always been strong. I rarely paid attention to sermons, during bible classes and even in Young People Fellowship. In addition, I only read my bible when I needed help from God, such as during examination periods. I felt that going to church was more of a chore than a privilege. This thought alone was a huge mistake: I would go to church and idle my time away. I would not listen to the teachings of my Sunday School teachers and my pastor. I would also use my phone, irritate the people beside me, or fidget a lot during Sunday School and worship service. This caused me to slowly drift away from God.

I have always, however, hoped to draw close to God again such that he is always in my heart. I also desire to constantly seek his advice and help from him, not only during tough times such as examination periods but when life is sailing smooth too. Many times, God’s Word brought much comfort to me. This verse was especially comforting to me: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). It brought me a lot of comfort and assurance during tough times as it tells me that God will always be there for me to rejuvenate my energy.

In addition, this year was a really tough year for me. For one, my studies were deteriorating. Also, I was placed in a really troublesome class. This class had many difficult people who were constantly giving me problems. It may, however, be a blessing in disguise as it has made me seek God for advice more often. It also allowed me to exercise patience and compassion for these difficult people.

This is also the main reason why after all the years of my parents’ nagging and persuasion that I finally decided to get baptised: I felt that I have become more mature as a Christian and have grown in faith towards God. Only after I have grown in my faith am I more happy with life and less troubled. I have become braver and stepped out of my comfort zone. Furthermore, I have started to try my best to stop fidgeting and irritating others. Instead, I try my best to listen to the sermon during worship service. I still have many flaws and am far from being the most godly person. I know, however, that I am improving every day “The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday” ― Matty Mullins.