For me, God did not exist

God did not exist for Dineo. She thought the Bible was nothing more than a collection of stories. She started attending services in the Universal Church at a young age and thought that by going to church, everything in her life would be perfect. 

Her grandmother was hit by a car and not long afterwards, they were robbed by intruders who threatened their lives. These events led her to question God’s existence and filled her with anger towards Him. Despite this, she continued attending church services because it was a routine in their household to go to church every Sunday and Wednesday. However, her anger, disbelief and resentment towards God remained unchanged.

“When the Bible was read in the church, I dismissed it as just another book full of stories. I questioned where the God they spoke about was because, in my life, He seemed absent. He did not prevent the accident or stop the robbers. This led to a deep void within me and I struggled to find the strength even to open the Bible.

Being in the church with such a lack of belief was draining. I heard others talk about how great God was and how the Holy Spirit brought them peace, but I wondered where that God was in my life. In one service, the preaching was about heaven and hell and it made me realise the importance of surrendering my life to God. I got baptised in water to start afresh in the presence of God. I committed my life to God.

I participated in a fast where I abstained from entertainment. During this period, I focused on seeking the presence of God. I read my Bible and realised that it was not just a collection of stories, but it was the Word of God. I started seeking the Holy Spirit with all my heart. I was tired of living without Him.

When I received the Holy Spirit, the anger, disbelief and void I once felt were replaced with peace and assurance. I no longer viewed the altar or the church with disdain. Instead, I realised the truth in the teachings and the power of God.

Today, I am free from my disbelief and anger. I no longer hold a grudge against God. I’m now a young person who firmly believes in God and is grateful for His presence in my life. I understand that difficulties will come, but with God’s help, I can face and overcome every single one of them,” said Dineo.