Student Connect

Specific ways I have reached out to false believers and unbelievers in my sphere of influence include primarily sharing my testimony of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and trusting in the power of the Holy Spirit to touch their hearts and minds as I have done so.

I come from a Mormon or Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints background and accidentally researched my way out of that sect, which unfortunately led me to a period of time where I felt afraid to trust God. Throughout that time, I am grateful to have believed that if we did indeed have a loving Father in heaven, then he would surely understand my heart. I believe He did, and he brought me back to him in His perfect timing. This has brought me to a place of understanding for many others who are in disbelief. Instead of coming from a place of judgment, I come at this scenario with curiosity.

Curiosity is the key to compassion for those who are being held back from seeking or experiencing God’s immense love. Patience is another notable virtue at play when allowing God to use us in his work with others. I have found that this is an often slow and tedious process that pairs well with love and prayer.

Conversely, there have also been approaches that have fallen short. For instance, when I first left the “Mormon” church, I couldn’t imagine that everyone would not want to hear about the evidence that I had procured and also wanted to live a life in real truth. Unfortunately, it quickly became evident that many were not at all ready to hear this information, which ultimately hurt both them and me, as I wrongfully assumed that they might feel the same as I.

This approach of assumptions and rapidly sharing such life-changing and startling evidence was highly ineffective. I have learned through this that the keys are a blend of timing, faith, prayer, patience, and curiosity. These tools have never failed me.

-Peace be with you all my brothers and sisters in Christ. You are greatly and deeply loved!