Thea's Testimony

I grew up in the 1980s in a big, busy family. Because my parents were often working, I learned how to take care of myself and my younger siblings from a very young age. We were a normal family, but for a while, we went through a tough time. I remember only having one pair of shoes and one special dress. Because of that, I decided I wanted to be independent, and at 14, I got my first job so I could make my own way.

After highschool finished , I moved to Australia and saw a world full of 'bright lights'—people who looked successful and lived in beautiful homes. I spent years trying to be like them, always chasing the 'next best thing' to make my life feel complete. Eventually, I moved back to New Zealand and started a family. On the outside, it looked like I had it all: a big house, fancy holidays, and plenty of friends.

But every night when I tucked my child into bed, I started thinking about the big questions. I wondered, 'What is the most important thing I can teach my child? Is there more to life than just having nice things?'

One day, my dad invited me to hear a special speaker. That week, everything changed. I realised that Jesus had paid a debt for me that I could never pay myself—He died for my sins because He loves me. As I learned more, I realised that I couldn't keep living the way I was. The person I was with didn't believe in God or the importance of marriage, and I knew that if we weren't putting God first together, it would cause a lot of sadness for me and my child in the future.

After we talked, we decided to split up that same week. It was a big, brave change, but I promised Jesus that from that day on, He would be first in our home. I promised to raise my child to love and honour Him.

Since then, things haven't always been easy, but Jesus has never failed us. Whenever things get challenging, He is always there to help us with what we need, whether it's food on the table or peace in our hearts. He filled the emptiness I felt for years with warmth and joy. I am so glad I put my trust in Him, because He has never left my side.

Thea