Having been born in a Christian family, my parents have been bringing me to church since the day I was born. On 08/02/1994, my mum led me in asking Jesus Christ to be my Lord and Saviour and to come into my heart. Hence, I wrote down this date on my Children’s bible, which is still with me today.

As I matured into primary school age, sitting in with my parents during sermons, I have been constantly learning the teachings of the word of God. The sermons taught me weekly about the ‘Do’s and ‘Don’t’s of the Christian life. At home, my parents continued to constantly inculcate in me the knowledge of God and the teachings of the bible. Christianity was very much a religion in me from a very young age.

During my secondary school and junior college days, though I professed to be a Christian, I lived a life not very much different from my peers. I was very much involved in sinful activities as well as chasing after my goals in life. Yet, I was continuing to read the bible, pray and attend church regularly.

I thank God for my Dad who has always been encouraging me continually to walk closely to God by sharing good sermons with me. After my A levels, he encouraged me to listen to a very good sermon series. Rather unwillingly, I listened to his advice and that series changed my life forever.

The sermon series was about dedication, on presenting oneself to God as a holy and living sacrifice from Romans 12:1. Back then, there was the realisation from God that the Christianity religion that I was having was only an external one, full of head knowledge and practices, but without inward reality. On one of the nights, I prayed a prayer of dedication to God, renouncing my sins and self-life and to present my life to him. From that day on, my life took a 180 degree turn.

My army days were a great time of testing. God brought to me many difficult situations that were hard to bear. Many times I felt that the Christian life was too tough to live and I was contemplating whether it was worthwhile. It was then God spoke to me through a book, telling me that he is my strength and that I can’t try to live the Christian life using self-effort. After that revelation, I allowed God to live out his life in me and I experienced his strength that brought me through those difficult times.

I thank God that throughout my life, his hand has been so evident, searching me out and finding me. He has given me a new life and a new hope. Today, I proclaim Galatians 2:20 that it is no longer I who lives, but Christ who lives in me and I proclaim that Jesus Christ is my Lord and Saviour. To him be the glory forever and ever! Amen.