Born in Church, Raised in the World: A Journey Towards Deeper Faith

As a Christian, do you struggle to live in the world, but not of the world? I hope today’s podcast episode will encourage you. This podcast episode features a portion of a sermon I gave at VC Family Church, focusing on my personal story and how God has used various experiences to bring me closer to Him. 

[0:00] Intro

[3:20] Born in church

[7:30] Raised in the world

[12:45] Is there more to life?

[21:00] Final thoughts

Bible Verses:

Colossians 1:28

Isaiah 40

Psalm 104

Job 38

“He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.” - Colossians 1:28 

I grew up in a single-parent home with my three siblings. My mother and grandparents played a significant role in my upbringing. I was involved in church activities from a young age, including playing the drums and participating in youth group. I believe that I was saved at the age of 13, despite being baptized at 11.

I was saved, but I lived a compartmentalized life, where church activities were separate from my daily life that was heavily influenced by the world. Those worldly influences, including music and TV shows, contrasted greatly with my church experiences.

I experienced gang violence and drug use in my neighborhood. I faced challenges in navigating relationships, especially with girls. Because of this, I became a father out of wedlock at the age of 20. 

Throughout this time, I experienced cognitive dissonance between my Christian beliefs and my actions. That led me to search for more meaning in life. My journey towards deeper faith was driven by my interest in business and motivational tapes. Let me explain.

On the long road trips I had to take for work, I began to listen to preachers like Tony Evans and Charles Stanley, which sparked my desire to learn more about God. I started reading the Bible and buying commentaries and dictionaries, despite not being an avid reader. 

I began to understand God's greatness through scriptures, such as Isaiah 40 and Psalm 104, which emphasize God's power and control over the universe. I believe that understanding God's nature and attributes helped me grow in my faith.

Your personal engagement with the Bible and consuming biblical preaching can deepen your understanding of God too. Read the Bible and seek a deeper relationship with God.