Sinking in depression

“I was eight years old when I started attending services in the Universal Church, but I was not obedient to the teachings I received. When my mother sent me and my sister to the homelands, I believed that I had gained my freedom. I started dating multiple men and drinking heavily, to the point that I went to taverns from the age of 14. I would get very drunk and sometimes did not even sleep at home. I did all this to please my friends.

 

I had low self-esteem and lacked confidence. I felt inadequate, like I was not good enough. No one knew what I was going through at home because I was a quiet child who kept to myself. Later, we returned to the city, and I went back to the church and got involved in the youth activities in the church.

 

That same year, my mother passed away. I felt lonely and empty, and I sank into depression and had suicidal thoughts, although I was afraid to act on them. I felt completely alone, as if I was slowly losing myself. I missed my mother deeply, which was devastating for me, and I eventually stopped attending church services. I got involved in another relationship, but that did not take my pain away. I thought what I was going through was normal.

 

I was later invited to a youth group sports event, and from that point on, I started attending church services again. I engaged in the chains of prayers for my deliverance from depression and suicidal thoughts. I started committing myself to God and I removed everything from my life that displeased Him. I ended my relationship with my boyfriend and chose to depend solely on God. I participated in a fast from entertainment to focus on building my relationship with God. I read and meditated on the Bible, and I longed to draw closer to Him. During a Sunday service, I prayed and told God that I was empty without Him. That day, I received peace and felt at ease, knowing that God would be with me.

 

I am now complete and no longer seek validation from others. I no longer feel lonely or empty because I have the presence of God inside me. I am transformed and confident. I no longer struggle with low self-esteem. I do not drink alcohol or date multiple men. I am not depressed or suicidal. I have healed from the pain of losing my mother. When I face challenges, I know that God is with me and will guide me every step of the way,” said Lisa.