Finding My Identity
Growing up, I was going through the motions, but I did not have a personal relationship with God or understand His love for me. This caused me to find my identity in grades, reputation, and relationships. During high school, I became anxious, depressed, and did not feel good enough based on society’s values. Although anxiety and depression are mental health disorders that often require medications, I truly believe a large part of my hopelessness was because I did not know Jesus.
Even though I have been a Christian my whole life, I surrendered to Christ my Junior year of high school. I finally went to my best friend’s youth group and found a new meaning of life. I was filled with emotion I’d never felt before. That year, when we decided to go on a retreat, is when I was saved. Hearing stories and feeling genuine love from both God and people tugged at my heart. I didn’t know that others had hurt like I had. It was just what I needed, and I know it was God’s plan for me to be there.
Becoming involved with Cru at Edgewood College and UW-Madison has been so helpful to me on the journey of building upon my relationship with God, learning how to communicate my faith, and keeping my passion for Christ alive. As a sophomore in college, I am the happiest I have ever been. I do still struggle with depression and anxiety, but I have God’s affection. I find joy in every day knowing that my identity lives in Christ alone. Like all Christians, I do still struggle with sin. I have had fallouts with the Lord, gone through heartbreak, and lost hope, but I am blessed. I know that God loves me eternally and that I don’t have to worry about my hardships, because the price has already been paid.
Stepping out of my comfort zone for an hour at that youth group changed my entire life and beyond. If you struggle with acceptance, heartache, or despair, I encourage you to take a leap of faith and invest in a relationship with Jesus. It will be the best decision you’ve ever made.
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken”. (Psalm 34:18-20)
What do you think?
If this story has encouraged you to place your faith in Jesus as your Savior and your Lord, you can do so right now, or anytime you are ready, by sincerely expressing a simple prayer to Him. Prayer is simply talking with God. The exact words are not as important as the attitude of your heart. Here is a suggested prayer:“Lord Jesus, I need you. Thank you for dying on the cross to pay for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive you as my Savior and Lord. Thank you for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Start making me the kind of person you want me to be.”