I am honored to introduce Tracy, a woman of deep faith and unwavering dedication to living according to God’s word whom I have had the pleasure of knowing, for several years. She is a true example of service and devotion, balancing the demands of three jobs while also volunteering her time to support others. Despite her busy schedule, Tracy always finds time to share the gospel and inspire those around her. Her life is a testament to her commitment to God and her desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Tracy to gain some insight into her life, and it was truly inspiring to hear how she manages to live out her faith so fully.
I am grateful to be alive and not need assistance or help from anyone. I want to be able to help others. My faith helps me to practice what I preach or believe. I wake up at 3 am daily to pray and spend time with the Lord. One of my favorite scriptures is Psalm 23 the first line “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. I hold to that truth. I am grateful to have a roof over my bed and all my bills paid for by Him.
What inspired you to start your journey with Christ?
Tracy: I grew up in church, and my grandmother was a Bishop. I got saved atthe age of 13, and for some time, I had one foot in and one foot out of the church.I was baptized at the age of 14. I was fortunate to feel the power of the Holy Spirit at such a young age.
How has your faith influenced your daily life and decisions?
Tracy: I am grateful to be alive and not need assistance or help from anyone. I want to be able to help others. My faith helps meto practice what I preach or believe. I wake up at 3 am daily to pray and spend time with the Lord. One of my favorite scriptures is Psalm 23-the first line, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” I hold to that truth. I am grateful to have a roof overmy head and all my bills paid for by Him.
What are some challenges you face in living a Christ-centered life?
Tracy: Listening to what others say while facing challenges. I learned a lot aboutpeople during COVID-19; this also solidified my relationship with God. I realized that not everyone has your best interest at heart even when they say they do.Putting my trust in God above friends was something I had to overcome in my discovery.
What is your favorite Bible verse or story, and why?
Tracy: My favorite bible verse is John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life”. I am in awe of Him sending His son to sacrifice His life for me. So selfless. I felt as though I was in the shadow of the valley of death, and he plucked me out and restored my soul. His grace keeps me and removes toxicity from my life. I wouldn’t be where I am without Him as my guiding force.
What advice would you give to someone new to Christianity?
Tracy: Make sure you read the word and don’t go by hearsay. Pray and ask God to guide you and surround you with the right people who will uplift and encourage you rather than bring you down. This is important in your journey. I grew up in church, and there are some old-fashioned people with their old-fashioned “isims” (aka ways) that can discourage people from coming to church and getting to know God. For example, they look at how they are dressed and speak ill of them. I said something to someone about coming to church as you are, and I was told it is not in the bible. That still does not give anyone the right to turn people away or browbeat them if they are not in line with what you perceive to be holy or righteous. We should accept individuals for who they are, not who we want them to be. As Christians, we should encourage and inspire one another. Let’s encourage one another to not only talk the talk but also walk the walk. Let’s demonstrate through our actions the true meaning of what Christianity is. Someone should be able to see the light of Christ shining in you.
How do you stay motivated during difficult times?
Tracy: I have a major support system. I have been through some difficult times. When I was younger, I struggled with tonsillitis and strep throat. I was initially diagnosed with congestive heart failure, which turned out to be inaccurate, and was told I had hyperthyroidism. God kept me and carried me through these challenges. Before I was adopted, whilst in the system, God carried me through. He placed me in foster care, and I felt protected and grateful that nothing bad happened to me. I was in a violent domestic relationship, and he carried me through it. I had a strong foundation and a good upbringing, and through everything, He covered me. He kept the promises in His word that’s in the bible. I encourage you to read the bible for yourself and discover what he has in store for your life. Read it repeatedly, and I can assure you that each time you read it, you experience renewed understanding. The word sustains me, and it is what I hold on to.
I can go on and on about how awesome God is. As we wrap up, I wanted to share that I recently started dating someone, and it’s going very well. I have so much to be grateful for. God is good!!
