What was life like before you met Jesus?
There have been spiritual trials, health trials, relationship trials, and financial trials. I lost my husband 3 years ago after a 6 year battle with cancer - 6 months later I lost my father-in-law - the man who had been a father figure to me when my own father chose not to fulfill his role. I've had times of overwhelming discouragement. I often wondered if God was truly listening. Certainly he would not keep putting me through these challenges - it was not what I would choose to face, but I endured, nonetheless.
How did you meet Jesus?
After losing my husband and father-in-law, I needed strength. I prayed for strength and spent time reflecting on my life. What I came to realize was that every situation & struggle in my life was actually a gift allowed by God to be used for His purpose: to perfect me, to give me strength. Little by little, He was changing me. I grew to trust Him and look forward to the day when I am with Him. Philippians 4:13—“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Psalm 119:28 - "My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word."
After being saved by Jesus, what is your life like now?
I can testify that there can be joy in the Lord even in the midst of struggles. When I put trust in Him, I do not face these things alone. I am so thankful that He has been by my side! He has sent me comfort and encouragement through prayer, through His Word and through His people. I am always amazed when I see a pattern in the messages and portions of Scripture I hear and read - Bible Study has been a blessing to me - His word and the fellowship has been healing. I am amazed when just the right person reaches out to me, one who knows where I’m at and understands. I am amazed when I’m praying and a feeling of calm washes over me like a hug from Him. I experience pure joy in knowing He cares. David understood this. In Psalm 28:7 David writes, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, And with my song I will praise Him.”