Good News from the Malang Congregation - Kezia

On November 11, 2018, right after the celebration of anniversary the 7th anniversary of GKDI Malang at Everyday Smart Hotel, the congregation received a beautiful gift. That day, Kezia, 13, the only daughter of Herry Siswanto and Laosma Hutagalung, decided to become a disciple of Jesus.

Kezia decided to join Bible Study after several months of learning about character at Ministry Teens Malang. Ministry began in February 2018, led by Elfrida and assisted by several campus mentors. Its activities are actively attended by four children, both from disciple families and from non-disciple families.

In August, Kezia became interested in knowing the Lord more deeply. This was influenced by her father's decision to become a disciple, as well as her mother, who was restoring her relationship with the family of the Lord. Kezia saw positive changes in her parents' lives, from their marriage relationship, their relationship with the Lord, to their parenting . Kezia's desire was fully supported by her parents, so it was not difficult for her to love the word of the Lord.

Previously, Kezia was a child who was insecure and found it difficult to socialize. She seemed not to need other people, unwilling to bother greeting anyone. Life was only something to be lived through with nothing interesting in it. However, in the word of the Lord, Kezia found peace and hope for her future. In her first Bible Study, Kezia reflected on Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for peace and not for disaster, to give you a future full of hope.”

Though she faced many challenges, Kezia kept pressing on with great humility. In addition to faithfully praying and spending time with God, she also learned to speak in public, smile, andfellowship. This change was certainly not easy for a teenager her age. However, all those efforts made Kezia more confident and brought progress in her social life.

Kezia's parents, who witnessed the change in her life, became even more grateful to become disciples of Jesus. Their family feels complete with a more cheerful Kezia, and family time has now become their favorite moments.

The Lord will meet the needs of every family willing to love Him sincerely. The change in each family member will surely affect the others. The Herry-Laosma-Kezia family has become a simple family who are very ready to give to the Lord. And, Kezia is an example for other teens to be willing to be renewed by the word of the Lord from their teenage years.