Sincere and Genuine Love Is Found Only in God

Sincere and Genuine Love Is Found Only in God

Growing up in a family, whether harmonious or not, has its own joys and sorrows. Yet there is always a choice to respond to problems rightly, among other ways by seeing them as a means to shape oneself into a new person. This is the lesson learned by Fery, a seventh-semester student who is part of the Campus Ministry at Jemaat Pematangsiantar. 

Being born the eldest of five children in a humble farming family placed a great responsibility on Fery. Yet what burdened him was not the difficult economic situation, but his parents' disharmonious relationship. Besides having to witness their arguments every day, Fery also lacked the attention and affection that should rightly be enjoyed by children. In addition, as the eldest son, he had to look after and lead his younger siblings. Family love and peace became the hardest things for him to find in his family.

This situation shaped Fery into a perfectionist who was oriented toward results and achievement. Since childhood, he had already been active in church ministry, even often winning various competitions in religious settings. Unfortunately, all of it was only activity with a spiritual theme, because he did not know God deeply. 

Although he was curious about the Bible, and often asked his parents what the use of God's wordwas, Fery never received an answer. In college, he searched for God through organizations or spiritual communities. He wanted to strengthen his faith and learn how to live a right family life. Yet none of them could help him intensively to know God. 

When he entered the fifth semester, the conflict between his parents grew more heated until they separated. Fery's life became chaotic. In a state of confusion and stress, he prayed that God would help him face every one of his struggles. 

God answered his prayer. Fery was brought together with a sister who had once been his mentor in the community he used to be part of on campus. Sister often prayed that Fery would join Bible Study and be helped through the challenges he was facing in life at that time. 

At last, Fery began studying the Bible. He was amazed by God, because his knowledge of God had changed his way of thinking in viewing problems. Even so, the period of Bible Study was not an easy time for him. Fery had to forgive both of his parents in the midst of a situation where they still held on to their own egos. Yet he did not give up and kept striving to live out the word he had come to know. 

The support of the congregation through advice, guidance, and the word that was shared greatly helped Fery through every stage of his repentance. From someone who felt starved of affection, he grew into a person who felt deeply loved by God. 

On February 28, 2020, Fery was baptized. He is grateful to have been chosen to become a disciple of Jesus, and he understands that salvation must be well maintained through the struggle to live purely. Today he holds to the principle that the life of a disciple is very exciting. Although it is not free from problems, he can see them as tools to test himself in his effort to leave behind his old life. This will continue until his faith is truly firm and strong, until in the end, he becomes more and more like Christ. 

God's wisdom enabled Fery to become a humble person in facing every problem, especially in his family. He learned to place himself as a friend to both of his parents, becoming a place where they could share stories and exchange thoughts. For his younger siblings, Fery positioned himself as a parent who gives affection, temporarily replacing their parents' love. 

“I am very grateful for the love of God that I have received until now,” said Fery. “Because, sincere love and genuine love can only be found in the Lord.”

To God be the glory!

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