Lucy Ulrich

I grew up my whole life knowing who Jesus was but I never lived my life for Him. Growing up Jesus had never been a priority in my life and I'd seek happiness in other things. In 2024 and 2025 I was in a relationship that led me astray, feeling like I was in a constant hole. I got to be so drained and I prioritized him over everything, causing me to lose myself.  This spring I went through a really rough break up with him, and felt a lot of anger and sadness. I was constantly thinking of ways to make myself feel just okay and I ended up falling for worldly desires that led me astray. I felt hopeless and constantly sad and I didn't know why. I just wanted to feel normal and be happy in life, but I was constantly giving into my flesh and living for the world. I would fill my life with distractions instead of seeking real happiness for myself. I was so insecure with my image and how others viewed me, always feeling judged and not wanting to show myself. I would always ask God “why?.” Why am I feeling like this? Why did this happen to me? Why do I keep failing you?.  While I was stuck in those questions and doubts, I got introduced to FBC by a friend this summer and started attending regularly. Everyone here looked so happy and enlightened; they were all so friendly and inviting. Seeing that kind of light made me reflect on my own life and where I was spiritually. I'd attend Sunday mornings, but I'd still find myself living for the world and constantly falling short. I'd use going to church as a mask to cover up the fact that I was not living my life out for Jesus. I constantly felt guilty for my actions and thought I was unworthy of Jesus' love. I would cry out to Jesus and knew I had to change. I couldn't keep living my life in this deep hole. But in the midst of all of this, He never gave up on me. I felt like I had no one, then God sent me some of the best friends I could ask for, who helped my faith walk. They showed me love, patience, kindness, and faithfulness. God truly knew what I needed. I started feeling convicted of a lot of things in my life, and with God's help he gave me the guidance to change. I started feeling happier in life and finding more joy in the things I did. God allowed me to view everything differently. I wasn’t always finding reasons to blame or be mad at, but instead, I found the hope and goodness in things. I felt the holy spirit in me, and I can't even describe how good my life is with Jesus. My insecurities weakened and I felt beauty in worshiping Jesus. He is my ultimate happiness that never fails even when I do. I went from crying in confusion to crying about how good He is. I started getting involved in a lot of gospel-rooted activities like weekly bible studies, youth group, and FCA. I enjoyed living my life for Jesus over my past worldly desires. He showed me unconditional love and trust. I started filling my head with the truth and rebuking the lies satan was putting in my head. If God is for me, who can be against me? If I have Jesus, I am never alone and never have to feel unworthy. Jesus became my first priority in my life and has made me into a new person. Throughout my life I will live for Him and be who I'm called to be. He helped me rise from my lowest point to where I am today. I have my firm foundation and will not be shaken for I am His daughter and He is my Father. I thank God for His transformation in me and look forward to the future and what he has planned for me. After everything he has done for me, I can’t help but wonder how I could truly show all my gratitude?