Young Adults + Our Stories 2Uzorak

God Met Me in the Middle of the Mess: Jessica’s Story

I grew up in Mexico with a mom, dad, and two siblings. My parents were considered wealthy by the standards around us, but my parents constantly fought. My dad was an alcoholic, aggressive, and took his anger out on us, sometimes getting physical.

Because my family life was terrible, I tried finding happiness and fulfillment in other things—partying, sex, witchcraft, and drugs. People took advantage of me during that time, and I felt emptier. At home, I tried to do or say things that would make my dad like me, but it didn’t work. All of this made me angry at God.

I couldn’t shake the loneliness or the problems in my life. One day, I sat in my room and just started praying. I told God I needed Him and His help but didn’t feel worthy of Him—I kept thinking there had to be a catch—that God couldn’t just love a person without them doing something in return. But at that moment, peace fell over me, and I knew God loved me, and I didn’t have to do anything to earn it. I felt God’s presence and knew He was with me.

That day, God met me in the middle of my mess, and from there on, I desired to grow in my faith. I moved to the U.S., joined a church, and found my identity in Christ. The changes in my life took time, and I know I have more work to do, but I’m thankful God loves me no matter what.

God’s been helping me forgive myself for my past mistakes, and when shame comes, I remember what Jesus says about me. He’s also helped me forgive my parents; I even look back on my life and am thankful for the positive things my parents did for me.

My dad is still the same, but God has repeatedly reassured me that He’s my father and proud of me. He blessed me with a boyfriend who recently became my husband and led me to nursing school, which I’m almost finished with.

I see every day of my life as a miracle. I’m here but not simply existing—I’m full of the love of Christ.

Pray Over Your Story

Praise – Thank God for the positive things in your life that have come from your family or loved ones. Thank Him for loving you fully as you are.

Repent – Confess anything you’ve turned to instead of God or anger you’ve harbored toward others.

Ask – Ask God to help you forgive and see life as a blessing. Ask Him to help you love family or friends as He would want you to.

Yield – Surrender your family and anything you’re going through to God. Spend a few moments in silence, asking Him to speak to you.

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Thank you for reading this 7-day devotional! If you'd like to share your own young adult story with Sandi, visit her website:https://abbiemarietaylor.com/

You’re in our prayers and the prayers of the young adults found in these pages.