By Jaleesa

Even growing up in the church and knowing about God all my life, I found my faith being tested this past summer.

I grew up in Los Angeles with a dad who was a minister and a mom who taught Sunday School. Church was a big part of my life. But as I grew older, in my teens into in my twenties, I began to realize that I had known God on a factual level, but now I was beginning to actually see and experience him in my life. It was the difference between knowing about God and knowing him personally.

This spring, I received my Masters in Psychology from Vanguard University. In my mind, my first call was to find a job. When that didn’t happen right away, I began to feel somewhat anxious and inadequate. I’m a planner. I’m uncomfortable not knowing what’s next in my life. But here I was, graduated, and didn’t have the next thing set up. I was happy that I graduated successfully, but also felt a loss amidst the uncertainty. It was during this time that Letty was planning Spectrum Nights and asked me to lead a small group. I was very hesitant, but I took a leap of faith and agreed to help out.

Of course, I asked myself, “Is this the right time?,” but I looked at it as a step of obedience. I wanted to do what God asked me to do, and he responded. Summer came, and still no job, so even though I had some anxiety, I took a vacation to Hawaii. I heard God telling me, “Go. Relax. I’ve got this. Enjoy this time of peace.” I led the small group and felt the joy of new relationships and helping our youth grow in their knowledge and their faith. And then, a job offer came! I started work a few weeks ago at a teenage group home.

Everything came in God’s timing. I was reminded that God is present in every season in my life. Even in the midst of uncertainties, weakness, or struggles, he is always there. I am so thankful that I said yes to God!