Making the decision to join Life Academy was anything but easy. Making a choice that was so completely outside of who and where I was in my life then was overwhelmingly scary and almost impossible to make.

I was so quick to shut out the idea of doing something that would take me miles out of my comfort zone, never mind miles out of the country I was living in. There were so many people telling me to go for it, pleading with me that I take this leap. I didn’t want to hear any of it! I felt justified with where I was at, however the more and more I would run away from the idea of doing this, all the more I would feel that familiar churning in my spirit that told me this was the next step I needed to make.

Eventually, after months of fighting that prompting that would only grow stronger and more convicting, I finally gave up. I closed my eyes and just said, “Ok.” From there it all went so fast, I applied and next thing I found myself seated next to my fellow classmates at New Life Church, Witbank, South Africa.

I can’t in the slightest begin to explain how finding the courage to make that decision, followed by those 10 months in Life Academy, surrounded by people who were there to help and support me throughout my journey changed everything for me. Saying that in itself is an understatement.

I am nowhere near to the same person I was just those short years ago. I have grown and matured in an immeasurable amount of areas, however most importantly in my relationship with Jesus Christ.

I owe it all to God, He knew I needed this more than I ever did. He brought out the change in me, and none of it would have been possible without His love and guidance. Being obedient to this decision has brought me to a place in my life now, over 2 years later, that I would never have fathomed for myself back then.

If I could go back and tell myself anything, it would be; “Don’t worry, you can rest assured knowing that things will change and so will you. God is about to move, so listen, be obedient and surrender!”

It was a challenge getting here, a massive climb, intensive growth and an unwavering trust that God had a plan and He would bring it to completion. Everyday I hold onto that and everyday I trust that He is in control and that throughout my life with a willing heart I will keep on trusting that where He leads me will be for His glory alone – and that is the ultimate purpose.

So my prayer for you would be that you take this leap, join in the adventure and allow God to work in your life and bring you out of 2021 completely changed, ready and equipped to go out there and begin on solid foundation.

By: Cheney Masson