I was a happy kid, but still a kid who was in the world, of the world, and influenced by the world. My schooling was a continuous competition against others. I was living a life meticulously planned to protect my best interest and pursue a “happy” future that was perhaps set by the society and my own parents.
But in God’s providence, the door to church was easily accessible to me since many of my Korean school friends and neighbors were Christians. They would invite me and I was easily sold to some storytelling about Jesus. I was drawn to the nice people, fun games, good music, and free lunches. So I began to attend church regularly because my friends included me.
Over time, I slowly came to like what I heard and sang about Jesus. He seemed like a “nice guy” who also welcomed me as part of His family. My heart was gradually softening.
But there were a couple of personal experiences that grew me in the faith:
JOY
During my whimsical church outreach to Cambodia in high school, I discovered the joy of abiding in Christ, the beauty of Christ-centered community, and spiritual experience during group prayer. In Philippians 4:4, Paul said, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" This verse encourages believers to maintain a joyful spirit in all circumstances and find joy in their relationship with the Lord. On that mission trip, I experienced something more than happiness—which was joy.
MERCY
Through a powerful sermon, I learned about Jesus' mercy and compassion as He experienced abandonment and persecution leading to crucifixion. In Luke 23:34, "Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” This powerful statement was made when Jesus was on the cross. Romans 5:8 says, "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Jesus' forgiveness and sacrifice was given to us not when we were perfect and deserving, but while we were ungrateful, prideful and broken. And in truth, mercy, compassion and forgiveness are in essence a form of His love for us. And realizing the depth of His love made me not only realize my own brokenness and sins but I began thirsting for a journey of sanctification.
SOVEREIGNTY
Over time, there have been many other times I witnessed, experienced and became convinced of God’s sovereignty. I’m a pretty independent individual who likes to plan, pave my own way and make things happen. But while the world we live in encourages us with false doctrines like, “You are the owner of your life” or “You can make anything happen,” I’ve come to realize my human limitations time after time. Isaiah 55:8-9 says, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
At first, I wrestled with God’s sovereignty because I like my autonomy. I like to be in control; but after years of walking with God, I realize that His plans are indeed much more beautiful, sometimes coupled with growth pains but still, more wonderful than my own.
I am so grateful that God found me and He’s given me faith, that although unseen, is anchored deep within me. And while I’m still a work in progress, this faith in God prompts me to be different in my thoughts and behavior. Every day is a battle between the flesh and the Spirit. I’m learning to be joyful not just in my highs but also in my lows. I’m asking God to lead me through the maze of life instead of surrendering to temptation and distractions. I’m putting down the heart that serves self, so that I can glorify God. I’m breaking through my old habits to pursue Christ-likeness, and that’s really tough but I know He doesn’t look at our outward performance but our hearts.
We are in Tokyo, Japan where only about 1% are Christians, and yet God has brought me to The Bridge Fellowship where I can find many friends who are convinced of the same Gospel. They have passion to know God and to follow Him. I truly thank God for allowing me to join this church and have an encouraging community—for everything good comes from above. I truly look forward to walking in Christ together for His glory.
Chaewon Kim (or C.K) is a beloved member of The Bridge Fellowship and co-leader of Bridge Community Group.