Roy was baptized in December 2024. If you have interest in getting baptized at Hope Community Church, you can learn more by visiting hopecc.com/baptism.
I have believed in a higher power for as long as I can remember, – but it wasn’t until about a year and a half ago that I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior.
Until then, I was stuck in a vicious cycle of thinking that if I could just achieve that next goal, build that habit, earn that persons approval, optimize my routine, or reach that finish line that is always moving, then I would finally be happy and at peace.
I have a distinct memory of doing yard work at the house my fiancée and I had just bought together, and instead of enjoying it and appreciating the blessing of having our own home, all I could feel was overwhelming anxiety about all the projects that I felt like I had to do.
This is just one example, but this way of thinking and being was ever present in all domains of my life. I was constantly stressed, worried, and felt like I was never enough. I struggled to rest and be content. It impacted my relationships, it harmed my mental health, and I felt very alone because I was working so hard and worrying so much while others weren’t. Despite going to therapy, having healthy habits, and being blessed in so many ways, I was miserable.
I reached a breaking point, fell to my knees and called out to God for help.
It wasn’t an immediate change, but more of a gradual transformation. I began praying and talking to Jesus, I began reading and listening to the Bible consistently, I started memorizing scripture and putting on my spiritual armor everyday. Since that day, I spend time with the Lord every single day and strive to rejoice always, pray continuously, and give thanks in all circumstances. I go to church every Sunday with my fiancée, and take part in a prayer group on Friday evenings. I am a more calm, positive, peaceful, joyful and compassionate person to myself and others, and I owe it all to the Lord.
I think the verse that best sums up my testimony and my faith is: “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV
