YEF North America Leader Rani Reid in reflection of her journey with God together with YEF, shares her testimony as follows:
“At first, I was not going to write an article about this but I thought that this is my opportunity to give thanks and glory to God so with this in mind I decided to share my testimony. Honestly, from coming to the church, I find that I am nothing like I was before. Before being evangelized, I prayed that I could find what I need to help me grow spiritually; help me grow closer to God. After coming to college, I was very involved with a few other programs and Christian clubs but over time, as I grew thirstier for God and to hear the words of God only one club and group remained and it was YEF along with weekly services at the local church.
I wasn’t as appreciative back then so I did not take notice, but now looking back I can see that God really gave me everything that I ever wanted and more. I remember when I heard the image of God in Bible study for the first time. I was anticipating hearing about who God is. I had many expectations and thoughts on this but when my bible teacher said ‘God is love’, I was very surprised and comforted because I found who God is to be something that I have been searching for my whole life.
I had many problems mentally and emotionally; a lot of spiritual issues, like anxiety and more. But, even though I had these many issues, there was still an underlining arrogance within me. Even though I did not read my bible or pray, I thought I was okay and judged others to my standard, especially non-Christians. I never heard the words or believed the words, ‘that I was a sinner’.
But, when I came to our church. One by one God changed me through the word of God and the prayers of my leaders. When I first came to university in my second semester, I spent most of my time not eating because I was too afraid to eat with others in the dining hall so I would go hungry and cried myself to sleepmost nights. But, later one by one God’s love filled my heart. I desired to follow Him with my whole life.
Like a sunflower following the sun, I wanted to follow God. Because I wanted to do everything for the one whom I love. The one whom I love the most more than anything or anyone else in this world.
I am very thankful to be a part of a community and to have leaders and advisors who help me grow and teach me one by one but at the same time knew when to push me to fly on my own when needed. The quality change over the last 2 years of my life has been very high. I am looking forward to growing more and relying on God; learning to humble myself in front of the One who gave His life for me. I have so much more to be thankful for and so many people I want to thank.
Lastly, when thinking of my life and where I used to be, and how I used to be, I realized and came to the conclusion that God can truly change anyone. No matter their background or their past, they too can come to be saved and walk on a path that is pleasing to God. I want to continue to evangelize and find those who are thirsty like I was and bear much fruit this year. Praise God!”