This week's Changed by Jesus testimony comes from Samantha. I hope this story encourages you to seek Jesus as your hope and comfort in difficult times.

On Christ the Solid Rock — Changed by Jesus #20

I was raised in a home where we never talked about God, except the occasional mealtime prayer and the occasional visit to church on holidays. I believed I was a Christian, but lived a wicked life--dating men, living with an ex-fiance, drinking too much, and suffering from depression and anxiety.

I believed I was above the hypocritical church and condemned all Christians as brainwashed, weird, or boring. I saw my brother as one of those brainwashed weirdos, but it was by his humble and patient example that I first came to Mars Hill in July of 2006.

My brother Dustin had been in the hospital battling leukemia and his wife Rachael didn't have anyone to go to church with. My brother had been telling me about Mars Hill and inviting me for quite some time. One day, for several reasons all of which were for my own gain, I finally decided to go with Rachael. God had other reasons for me going that day, and for that I am thankful--right from the start he has shown me that he works in me despite my sometimes sinful inclinations. As I listened to Pastor Mark preach, I realized that I was not in fact a Christian; my heart was broken, I repented, and became Christian that day.

Less than four months later, my brother was taken up to heaven, and less than a year after that my parents divorced.

I honestly don't know where I'd be if I didn't have God's truth to stand on, his wing to find comfort under, and his love to continue sharing with others. The change in my heart, my moods, my mind, all of me has been redirected towards true joy that fills me with peace during both trials and good times.