I grew up in a family that regularly attended church and learned about God. However, going to church was just a thing I did once a week. I did not truly have a relationship with God. What mattered to me was what other people thought about me, so I would try to have a good image. I would be nice to my siblings at church, but at home, I was rude and disrespectful to them. 

            A speaker in the Children’s Ministry shared that Jesus died on the cross and endured opposition from sinners so that we do not grow weary (Hebrews 12:2-3). Over time, I began to wonder if I was trying to be accepted by the people at church or by God. I confessed that I was a sinner and asked for forgiveness from Jesus Christ. I learned that I wasn’t supposed to impress others at church, but to live for God. The Lord helped me realize that Jesus died for my sins because of His love for us and that I have to praise Him, not for the approval of others, but for the grace and mercy that He has given us. 

            Not all of my problems have gone away, as I am still not perfect, but I know about how I should act. I have realized that I am a sinner in need of God’s salvation. Knowing Christ has encouraged me to strive to pray, read the Bible, and attend more events such as the youth group. Jesus Christ has helped me learn to give up idols to fixate myself upon God.

            I hope to continue my spiritual relationship with God, to praise and glorify Him. I am still young and have not decided the path I should take, but I hope that I can spread the gospel to others in need so they can be sanctified by the Holy Spirit. I am thankful that God sent the people in my life to teach me about Christ. I want to be baptized to put my old self to death and live a new life in which I obey my parents, care for my siblings, and — most importantly — praise God for the mercy He has given me.