What was life like before you met Jesus?
I grew up in a Christian home, having a very good understanding of who God was. But what I was missing was actually knowing him. I have a problem with sin - we all do. But especially things like anger and anxiety - instead of turning to God, turning to other things, like friends and family. I always felt as if going to church, reading my Bible, and other things like that were chores. And I didn't care to get a deeper relationship with God.
How did you meet Jesus?
A week when I was at church singing and praying, I felt God's presence in me. But I ignored it because I felt as if it wasn't important. This year was my first year going to Solid Rock summer camp. The second to last night, the pastor spoke a very good message. I felt another presence of God, and he told me he loved me, and I believed. I burst out crying in happiness as I came to the realization that I would get to live with Jesus forever! And he died on the cross for our sins. While my sin is still a big problem, it's a problem that's already been paid for on my behalf. And I'm so grateful for Him. Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace by gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our lord." Jesus died on the cross for us, and that's amazing and breathtaking to me!
After being saved by Jesus, what is your life like now?
I feel myself getting a little less angry and turning to God for help instead of turning to other things. I know that God loves me and paid for my sins. I'm so glad for my youth leader; she's been a big part of the reason I now know God.