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The Importance of Faith—I Know Whom I Have Believed
In pursuit of a secure life and greater wealth, people tirelessly chase after fame and fortune. But does any of this truly hold meaning? There was once a man who held a high-ranking position as a manager in a foreign tobacco company. He had material wealth, yet, out of gratitude for the grace of the Lord Jesus, he gave up his high salary and started anew as a delivery worker.
As a child, I had no understanding of the idols my family worshiped. I only knew that those were days filled with delicious offerings, making them some of the happiest moments for us as children.
During my middle school years, I attended a Catholic school. Catholic students were treated with great favor, which piqued my curiosity and led me to join their gatherings. However, during these gatherings, I often felt uneasy due to the practice of confessing sins to the Virgin Mary and seeking absolution from the priests. Eventually, with the encouragement and persuasion of my classmates, I was baptized. Yet, something still felt missing in my heart. After graduating, although I no longer worshiped idols, I also stopped attending Catholic church.
As I stepped into society, I gradually surrounded myself with drinking buddies and gambling companions. I often spent entire nights playing cards and drinking. Over time, this reckless lifestyle left me longing for peace and financial security. I began following popular beliefs, visiting various temples and idols in search of blessings. I thought that certain idols would bring wealth while others would grant fortune. For twenty years, I blindly sought these worldly gains, but despite all my efforts, I never truly found peace or prosperity. As for Jesus, I knew nothing about Him. I merely regarded Him as just another deity—one I did not worship simply because I did not know what to ask of Him.
Then, the salvation of the Lord Jesus came to me. At that time, foreign tobacco had just begun to be imported, sparking a trend in Taiwan. I was then a supervisor at a foreign tobacco company, smoking at least three packs a day. Not only was I addicted to smoking, but I had also picked up other bad habits, such as chewing betel nut.
One day, by chance, I met Sister Li from the True Jesus Church. I observed her praying reverently before meals and was curious about her devotion. She passionately shared with me the truth of God’s kingdom and eternal life. However, at that time, I harbored an inexplicable aversion toward Christianity and Christians. I ignored her testimonies, but she was patient and full of love, persistently sharing with me. Unbeknownst to me, I gradually absorbed the messages she shared. Eventually, she invited me to attend a church service. Out of curiosity, I agreed to go.
That day was the Sabbath. Concerned that I might feel uncomfortable, she asked a brother to accompany me. Though I did not understand the sermon or the Bible, I thank God for planting in my heart a yearning for His kingdom. From that day forward, I bought a children’s Bible and read it like a storybook, seeking to understand its teachings. I also watched Bible story films to learn more about the scriptures. Additionally, I joined brothers and sisters in visiting patients at National Taiwan University Hospital and Kuang Tzu Bo Ai Hospital. While listening to their testimonies and serving in the ministry, my reverence for God grew.
During my time as a seeker at the True Jesus Church, I attended a spiritual convocation in Taipei, where I heard testimonies about the salvation of Jesus. I was astonished and moved. That night, I made a firm decision to seek God’s help in overcoming my thirty-year-long smoking addiction. With sincerity, I prayed earnestly.
The next morning, out of habit, I lit a cigarette. But as soon as I took a puff, the taste was unbearably repulsive. Thinking the cigarette had gone bad, I tried another one, but it was just as distasteful. I then went downstairs to buy a fresh pack. I lit ten cigarettes in a row, yet each one choked me—it was unbelievable! I hurried home and called Sister Li to tell her what had happened. She rejoiced and told me to thank the Lord Jesus for His grace, as He had chosen me and was helping me break free from my long-standing addiction.
That moment changed my life. I decided to resign from my job, leave that environment, and return to the embrace of the Lord.
By God’s arrangement, I found myself spending more time with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Unknowingly, this helped me break free from my addictions to smoking, drinking, and gambling. My health improved day by day. One day, Sister Li asked me if I would give thanks and pray before meals when dining with unbelievers. With the faith God had given me, I confidently replied, “Of course! Jesus has helped me break free from these chains, and I am proud to be one of His people!”
It is only through God that we can break free from the shackles that bind us. It is only through God that we can live with true joy and freedom. For God is the way, the truth, and the life.
We warmly welcome you to our upcoming Spring 2025 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation (ESSC). You can also join us for the Spring 2025 ESSC via online streaming.
Thursday, April 17, 2025 6:50 PM to 8:10 PM
Friday and Saturday, April 18-19, 2025 9:00 AM to 8:10 PM
Sunday, April 20, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.
Please find our church location below:
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
Google Maps
In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.
Friday Evening Service: 7:50PM – 9:00PM
Saturday Morning Service: 10:50AM – 12:00Noon
Saturday Afternoon Service: 1:30PM – 2:40PM
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org