Pain to Purpose
Core Of Your Life.
Have you ever pondered that critical question: who or what is the center of your life?
Before fully committing to following Christ, I knew God existed and believed that He sent His son, Jesus, to save us from our sins–as we are all sinners in need of a savior, for sure! Despite what self-improvement gurus may have told you, you cannot save yourself by yourself.
Yet, despite this awareness, God wasn’t the focus of my life. I prioritized my family and professional life above all else. I valued worldly possessions more than my Creator, Yah. I was so consumed by temporal things that I failed to recognize their insufficiency—both spiritually and physically—when life came crashing down.
A Year of Challenges and Renewal
My life crumbled. The year 2024 presented unparalleled challenges, yet it also became a year of strength, courage, rebirth, and blessings. This period brought a mix of losses, pain, and suffering, including intense spiritual warfare. However, it also revealed God’s unwavering love and faithfulness. For many years, I failed to realize that God is the source of life—all-sufficient and the only one capable of providing true peace. In this brokenness, I repented of my sins and sought His help and guidance.
Throughout this hard season, the devil tempted me and God tested my faith. Yet, I persevered through prayer and fasting. (Stay tuned for my complete testimony, guided by the Holy Spirit.) To get to the key aspect, prayer has always been a familiar practice for me. However, fasting was something new that the Lord led me to in 2024 as a way to seek His presence more deeply.
I pray that everyone can experience the profound joy of being in the presence of the Lord Jesus —it’s beyond reality!
Pain, Loss, and Suffering
Earlier this year, both my grandmother and mother fell ill. By the grace of God, they are now recovering. Yet, the saying holds true: when it rains, it pours. While navigating their illnesses, I faced another devastating blow—the loss of my aunt, a mother figure to me. This loss was incredibly difficult to bear. All three women played pivotal roles in raising me, each in their unique way. My aunt’s passing hit me particularly hard. She was a strong, independent woman who taught me invaluable life lessons, from handwashing clothes to cooking. Her kindness and selflessness left a lasting impact on my life.
During this period of grief, I felt lost and confused. I needed someone to help me find my way back to reality. Therapy didn’t provide the relief I sought. It was then that I started seeking God’s presence more earnestly. I began praying more, attending church services both online and in person, and fasting. It was then I realized I needed Yah. I repented and accepted His grace, got baptized, and He welcomed me with open arms.
The Power of God’s Grace
I couldn’t have gotten through this hard season without God’s grace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. His strength kept me safe and sane, enabling me to move forward and repurpose my life. The extent to which God transforms you—inside and out—is astonishing when you are spiritually awake and obedient.
I have come to realize that when God calls you to seek first His kingdom; the path is not straightforward. The road is narrow and filled with obstacles. Yet, Deuteronomy 31:8, reminds us: “It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
Faith as an Anchor
Despite the bittersweet journey with Christ, my faith has been an unwavering anchor during moments of deep sorrow and uncertainty. God has offered refuge and strength, providing a peace that surpasses all understanding. Through prayer and fasting, I have found comfort in knowing that God’s protection and guidance are ever-present, helping me navigate life’s storms with hope and resilience.
Breaking Through Pride and Ego
I spent many years blinded by my own pride and ego. It took a season of profound trials and tribulations to grasp that God is the source of life—completely sufficient and my sole salvation. Through His peace and grace, I overcame my difficulties and discovered my true purpose in Him.
God has shown me the transformative power of true faith. I am now committed to living a God-centered life. By putting Him at the core of my life, I have experienced genuine joy and peace. His kindness and mercy are boundless, and for that, I am eternally thankful.
In the end, the question remains: Who or what is the center of your life?
For me, the answer is clear—it’s Yah, my Creator, my Lord and Savior, and my Guide. As you enter this new year, I pray that you seek Him first and experience the abundant life He promises!
With Grace & Love,
Darline
