TRINITY TANUAN
WATCH BAPTISM
Hi everyone, I’m Trinity Jade , and this is my Testimony!
I was raised in a Christian – Catholic family. I was baptized as an infant and later confirmed in the catholic church as a young teenager. On Sundays, I would listen to bible stories and attend mass wondering whether God existed.
Growing up, I was a good kid. I was well-mannered, did well in school, and was busy with extra-curriculars. My parents cared for me and I obeyed them, but sometimes I could be stubborn. When I was troubled they would encourage me to pray to God because they know that prayer is powerful. I knew my parents loved me and I thought love was easy. So growing up, I thought I didn’t need Jesus.
But, as I look back on the past years, I am reminded that I do need Jesus and that God has encountered me at times of need.
At a young age I learned to be independent and self-reliant in my abilities and studies. Outside of school, I enjoyed competing in different swimming disciplines, but I did have some injuries happen. In my teenage years, I felt like living in fear and worry. There was darkness in my mind, and it was hard to see the light in the tunnel. I questioned my worth while trying to find my place in this world. At times, I felt lost, hardened and discouraged.
During this time, God met me while attending a Teen’s Conference in March 2022. Leading up to the Teens Conference I was feeling drained and worried from many things. Again, anxiety and fear crept into my mind. At the end of the session, I sought prayer with one of my coaches. As my coach prayed over me, I accepted to give up my burdens to God so that I may find peace in Him. I felt the weight on my shoulders being lighter. From then, I wanted to have a relationship with Him, but my heart was not ready.
One night, I was overwhelmed by emotions and prayed to God. In deep thought, I was overpowered by a voice saying, “You are loved” and that I am enough for Him. I realized that I don’t need to please anyone, and find where I fit in this world. As 1 John 3:1 says, “See how very much the Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are!”. My heart softened and I wanted to really know more about it.
As university began, I was questioning my purpose in life. My mom suggested that I read The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. In this book, I gained more insight into my purpose – who I am, where I belong and what I was made to do. My perspective on life changed because the book really gave me the guidance I was looking for. Though I still worry about where my future goes, I am reminded to be present and let go of my fears. In Matthew 6:34, Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own”.
When my family and I came to cornerstone, I felt the welcoming and open hearted presence here, a place where I feel like I belong. I felt encouraged to seek God initiatively and realized my heart and mind were changing. God was working through me and even called me to serve.
In Christ’s death, I don’t need to carry the weight of my burdens anymore. Having found my identity in Christ, I am saved by God’s grace and accept his unconditional love. I know that He is above all things of this world and continue to put my faith, trust, and peace in Him. So today, I chose to be baptized expressing my faith that Christ is my Saviour, and to follow Him even when I fail.
I thought I needed to have some dramatic life story of how Christ saved me, or to be the perfect person before getting baptized. But I have learned that God works in small ways and produces gradual change. Today, I am still challenged to be patient, thoughtful, trusting and humble as I continue my walk with God. As Micah 6:8 says, “to act justly , love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” I want to thank the YA community for a place of welcoming fellowship. The worship ministry and Starkids team for an opportunity to serve with passion.
I want to thank my small group members, friends and family that have supported me, and Pastor Pete who has walked with me through this journey.
So now, I stand on the foundation of God’s steadfast love for me as I continue to put my trust in Him, as Proverbs 3:5-6 says: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Thank you
