My spiritual journey began with a desire to understand my purpose and find peace amidst life’s uncertainties. Growing up I grappled with a sense of unworthiness, influenced by challenging relationships.
One truth that has deeply resonated with me comes from Psalm 139:14: “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” I’ve known these words in my mind, but believing them in my heart has been a much harder journey. Past wounds and difficult relationships left me questioning my worth and place in the world. Yet, the journey God invites us into is about more than just knowing Scripture; it’s about letting it transform how we see ourselves.
One of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned along the way is the importance of slowing down. Living in alignment with Jesus’ way means embracing a different rhythm, one rooted in grace and rest. In a culture that constantly pushes us to achieve more and prove ourselves, slowing down feels countercultural and, frankly, difficult. But I’ve found that the moments I’ve chosen to pause and breathe are the ones that remind me: my worth isn’t tied to what I do or how much I accomplish; it’s tied to who God says I am.
Even with that truth in mind, I’ve struggled with the weight of shame from past mistakes and failures. Letting go of shame has been a slow and painful process, but it has also brought me closer to true freedom. There have been times I believed I wasn’t worthy of God’s love; that if I just tried harder or became “more,” I would finally feel at peace. But God, in His mercy, is showing me that His love and forgiveness are not earned; they are freely given.
Learning to rest in God’s love has been a profound lesson. He invites me to let go of the pressure to perform and instead receive His grace as I am. And through this, I’ve come to realize how vital community is. God often uses others to remind us of His truth when we forget. I’ve experienced this firsthand; friends and small group members speaking words of life and encouragement just when I needed them most. Community has been a lifeline, reminding me I’m not alone in this journey and that we’re all walking toward Jesus together.
A big part of this process has also been learning to forgive myself. Just as God is quick to forgive, I’ve had to extend grace to myself. Releasing guilt and shame hasn’t been easy, but it has been one of the most freeing steps I’ve taken.
Unexpectedly, I’ve also found healing through serving others. Whether in small ways or significant ones, serving shifts my focus from my failures to God’s work through me. It’s a reminder that I’m not defined by my past, but by the grace and love of God.
Walking in God’s way isn’t about perfection or having it all figured out. It’s about surrender; trusting that God is with me in the mess and knowing His grace is always enough. If you’ve ever felt like you’re not enough or have carried the weight of shame, I want to encourage you: there is grace and freedom for you, too. You don’t have to carry those burdens anymore. Jesus invites all of us to walk in His way, and His love will always be enough.
