As I reflect on my journey through life, one truth stands out: the immeasurable value of the local church and the impact it has had on my personal growth and development. I am incredibly grateful for the dedicated youth leaders and volunteers who selflessly invested their time and wisdom in my life during those formative years. Their guidance, coupled with the nurturing environment of the church community, provided me with a compass when I was navigating the tumultuous seas of adolescence, unsure of my identity and place in the world.
In a society where voices are screaming at us from every direction, the local church stands as a beacon of truth and stability. Beyond the influence of parents, it offers a unique platform for children and teenagers to encounter perspectives that shape their worldview and character. The significance of this cannot be overstated; it’s a lifeline in a world often fraught with confusion and uncertainty.
I’d love to share some examples of the truths that were lovingly poured into my life, altering its course in ways I could never have imagined:
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GOD IS MY FATHER and He LOVES me!
“My deepest awareness of myself is that I am deeply loved by Jesus Christ and I have done nothing to earn it or deserve it.” ~ Brennan Manning
To know that the CREATOR of the universe loved me and cared about every detail of my life changed me from the INSIDE out. It gave me a deep sense of peace, joy, and security. Because I knew that I was unconditionally loved and accepted by Him, I didn’t have to seek superficial love.
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COMMUNITY and BELONGING:
Within the walls of the church, I discovered a sense of belonging and acceptance. It wasn’t just a place I attended; it was a community that embraced me for who I was, and friendships that have lasted a lifetime.
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FORGIVENESS
“Forgiveness is about empowering yourself, rather than empowering your past..” ~ T. D. Jakes
My parents divorced when I was young, and I was holding on to hurt and unforgiveness, allowing it to tear me apart inside. I learned to truly forgive my parents and let go of the hurt.
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SERVICE
“Everybody can be great because anybody can serve.” ~ Martin Luther King Jr.
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The local church instilled within me a heart of service and sacrifice—a willingness to extend a hand of compassion and grace to those in need, embodying the selfless love exemplified by Christ Himself.
I learned the value in serving others. I began by serving inside my church with our children’s ministry. Next I served with others in my community, working as a tutor and helping build houses with Habitat for Humanity. Finally, I traveled to other states and throughout the world to do mission work – helping repair dilapidated schools and homes, loving on orphaned children, and teaching others about God’s love for them.
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PURPOSE and LEADERSHIP
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” ~ John Quincy Adams
I learned that I had leadership capabilities and was given opportunities to lead.
The church empowered me to embrace my unique talents and passions, igniting a flame of purpose and leadership that continues to burn brightly to this day.
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DISCIPLESHIP
“Fortunately, God made all varieties of people with a wide variety of interests and abilities. He has called people of every race and color who have been hurt by life in every manner imaginable. Even the scars of past abuse and injury can be the means of bringing healing to another. What wonderful opportunities to make disciples!” ~ Chuck Swindoll
My youth leaders taught me what it looked like to live as a Christ-follower. I learned how to read my Bible and seek it for wisdom. How to pray and allow God to “speak” to my heart.
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PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT YOU ARE CONSUMING
“These are decisions you make, and when you add them up, they create your life: What will you feed your mind? What thoughts will you dwell on? Who will you allow to influence your inner life? It’s your choice. Choose wisely.” ~ Ted Egly
I learned to pay attention to what I was consuming (reading and watching) and how it was influencing me. What we expose ourselves to, impacts us in a positive or negative way. There is a cause and effect relationship to what we take in and what comes out.
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As I reflect on these transformative truths, I am reminded anew of the invaluable role the local church plays in shaping lives and fostering communities rooted in love, truth, and purpose. It is a sanctuary in a fractured world, offering hope and healing to all who seek its embrace.
Regarding my kids, I am grateful to have other adults speaking grace, love, life, encouragement, and truth into their lives. I know my kids are not always listening to me, so it’s good to know they have other people providing wisdom and insight, guiding them towards living a better version of themselves, allowing God’s peace and grace to rule and reign in their lives.
I also know that churches aren’t perfect. They are made up of people like you and me that make mistakes. I am not going to forsake one of the best parts of my life because a handful of people get it wrong. I will choose to look for the good and forgive the imperfect. I also choose to serve and help when I see areas of need!
I’d love to hear your story. How have your been impacted by the local church?
CLICK HERE for a post I wrote on the importance of investing in others.
