By Marika Marinas
MY LIFE BEFORE CHRIST
I’m almost in my mid-thirties. I was born in Manila, but at age eight, my family moved to Bicol. Life in the province was calmer, a contrast to the noise and pollution of the city. I grew up surrounded by faith I thought was right —my grandparents were devout. I used to see my mother prayed and read the Bible each morning. But as a teen, I got caught up in trends. I became obsessed with the boyband Westlife, not realizing it had become a form of idolatry. I had big dreams, but life took unexpected turns. In college, I lost my best friend just days before my birthday. Later, my grandmother and young cousin were murdered by a neighbor—I was with them before it happened and blamed myself for not staying. After graduating in 2012, I lost another grandmother. Despite my efforts, I couldn’t find stable work. For five years, I was jobless, depressed, and felt completely hopeless—even thinking about ending it all.
HOW I CAME TO KNOW CHRIST
One day, I came across a radio program offering a free course. Out of curiosity, I joined—not knowing it would change my life. It was hosted by Christians who later invited me to church and gave me Our Daily Bread booklets. As I read them and flipped through my mother’s Bible, I slowly began building a relationship with Jesus in 2013. Even after finding work, I still battled fear and loneliness. I used to pray the rosary without fully understanding my faith—until my mother explained its deeper meaning. That moment stirred a desire in me for a more personal relationship with Christ. In my early 30s, I longed for real love and purpose. I felt alone—my lifestyle wasn’t trendy, and I didn’t quite fit in. Then a friend from work, Bro. Michael Barreda, invited me to an online Bible study. I said yes right away. Through those studies, I met brothers in the faith—Bro. LeJohn, Bro. Adrian, and Bro. Jaypee. Though hesitant at first, God gave me the courage to attend church in person. Eventually, I accepted Christ as my Savior and followed Him in baptism. That’s when everything started to change—I gained new friends and began to grow spiritually and emotionally.
MY LIFE IN CHRIST
I thank God for giving me strength to stay firm in my faith and for surrounding me with fellow believers. Though I still face trials, I’ve learned to turn to His Word and prayer—and through that, I find peace.
I’m not who I used to be. God has changed me, strengthened me, and shown me He’s been guiding me all along. I’ve come to realize that the love, joy, and connection I was searching for are found not just in people or the church—but in Christ alone.
I’m forever grateful for His sacrifice, His love, and His presence in my life. I desire to know Him more and to be used for His glory—especially in sharing the Good News with those I love. To God be all the glory!
–Marika Mariñas
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