Podcast: My Story (Part 1): Coming Into the Message

My personal story of being raised around message influence, and coming into church as a young adult after a confusing upbringing.

My parents left the message when I was very young, but didn’t have any conversations with me about why they left – and what they learned or observed. Consequently, the continuing influence of extended family (who were still in the message) was confusing and impacted me greatly. It directly contributed in leading to me to coming back when I was of age. 

At the time, it felt like a great testimony of God holding and preserving me through the years by spiritual conviction and a pull on my heart. In retrospect – I was a confused, defenseless, and frightened child. 

My story might offer some insight into talking with your children after leaving the message, and maintaining open dialogue so they aren’t defenseless against influence. One can do so with wisdom; not overloading them with information, but inviting dialogue and detail about the message and the story that is ours.