Being from a Southern Baptist family that only attended church on holidays when I was little, I followed my sisters and went before the church to be baptized when I was nine. We moved twice before settling in Orlando, and joined the Pine Hills Baptist church. Our involvement with Pine Hills Church deepened significantly compared to our past experiences. Sundays became an all-day affair, filled with church services, choir rehearsals, training union sessions, and the evening service.

Amidst the stress at home, I finished school and embarked on a rebellious path. I left home, forgetting everything I had known, and acted out. Alcohol became my refuge, but eventually, I realized that I was the one serving it. God’s presence overshadowed me, and He sent numerous friends to share His steadfast love. They reminded me that Jesus is the one and only Truth, and His love endures forever. Despite this, my rebellion kept me trapped in my sinful ways.

It wasn’t until I surrendered to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) to get sober that I turned back to the God of my youth. Rediscovering the precious and true nature of God’s Word, I now prioritize spending time with Him early in the morning. I pray that God leads me and guards my words throughout the day. Despite my daily struggles and imperfections, God gently nudges me back to my prayer life and the reading of His Word—where all truth and wisdom flow.

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- Ellene