I yearned for freedom. I sported tattoos, indulged in smoking and drinking, and, profanities peppered my sentences. I used to get into fights and mixed with wrong company.

In spite of all these, I never once felt there was anything wrong with me.

It did not cross my mind that I was behaving defiantly, against God’s will. Although I come from a family of Christians, I did not heed the gospel call to believe in God and to come to a saving knowledge of God. I simply rejected anyone who even tried to counsel me. I lived by my own rules.

As I got older, I found out that there were so many things around me which were beyond my control, like the stress from work, and inter-personal relationships. To make matters worse, I was working overseas, far away from my hometown. I felt really helpless.

Gradually, I decided to open myself up to God – the same great God about whom my family has been trying to tell me. I thank God that I met Pastor Andrew and all the brothers and sisters of the church. I felt a sense of peace and belonging.

I now pray daily. Praying has helped me overcome various obstacles. I believe that God will lead and guide me, and provide the best for me. He will never leave His children alone in times of trials. I prayed to God that I would be able to find a job in which I would be happy.  When I went back to my hometown, I found another job.

I found out that difficult times are times when God helps us to learn and grow, and that all trials are permitted by God. I realise now that I need to repent and change.

After I received Jesus as my Lord and Saviour, I started to reconnect with my parents and share my life with them.  I am ashamed of myself for hurting them so badly when I was young, even though they had loved me all the same. I have changed my manner with which I spoke to them. My parent said, “You are no longer the person you used to. You have matured.”

I thank God for turning me around. He has caused me to understand what is right and wrong, surrounds me with my brothers and sisters who love me. I now find joy in attending bible study classes. I am happy each day for being able to read God’s word, which brings meaning to life. We are all being loved by God, and all glory goes to Him alone.