Ill-treated and depressed

“I was raised by my uncle and aunt. I suffered abuse at the hands of my aunt. I was severely beaten for no apparent reason. She often told me how stupid and useless I was. She told me that I would never amount to anything. Even though there was food at home, she only gave me a small portion. Sometimes I went to school on an empty stomach.

I also had to wake up at 4am every day because I had to work in the field before going to school. By the time I got to school, I was already tired. I developed very low self-esteem. My peers looked very happy, but I was not. I plunged into depression and cried myself to sleep every night.

I later moved to Johannesburg to stay with my father and step-mother. My step-mother was attending services in the Universal Church and I started attending with her. In the church, I was encouraged to participate in the chains of prayers for my deliverance. I was taught how to use my faith to fight for the transformation of my life.

I attended the services every day and often heard the pastor preach about salvation and the importance of receiving the Holy Spirit. I knew that I could not receive the presence of God if I was still clinging to my past. It was very difficult to let go of everything I faced, but I asked God to give me strength. I surrendered my life to Him. The 21-day Fast of Daniel was introduced and I took part in it. I read my Bible and prayed every day.

On the last day of the fast, when I was seeking the Holy Spirit, I told God that I could no longer live without Him. As I was praying, I felt peace that I had never felt before and from that day on, my life transformed completely.

My relationship with my family is wonderful and I forgave my aunt. I am confident, no longer depressed and I do not cry myself to sleep. I am now working as a day care teacher. I am happy even in the midst of challenges because my happiness depends on God,” said Providence.