Testimony – Yulia

Hi everyone, my name is Yulia. I’m from China. I first came to the OTBC Tuesday English Class with my son Lucas in February last year. Through Kayla, I was introduced to the Thursday Bible Study Group and got to know Pastor Jane and many lovely brothers and sisters here.

Living in Christchurch hasn’t been as easy as I imagined — especially with the stress I felt about my son’s learning. Lucas loved playing games, and we had a lot of conflict because of that. We’d argue, and afterwards, I’d feel full of regret.

But after joining the Thursday Bible Study and listening to Pastor Jane’s teaching, I started learning more from the Bible and began to realise that I needed to repent. At first, I didn’t feel anything, but that began to change.

One night, I had two strange dreams, which was unusual for me because I rarely dream. The dreams were about my husband and my son. I woke up remembering every detail clearly, and they really touched me deeply. That helped me start to understand what Pastor Jane meant when she talked about God giving us revelation. It felt amazing. I believe God was showing me that He sees my struggles. He opened my eyes and changed the way I think.

In that moment, I suddenly understood a lot of things — especially that I had been trying to control my husband and son. I realised I couldn’t keep doing that. I needed to change. That had never crossed my mind before. I used to think the problem was with others, not me. But through those dreams, God showed me that none of us are perfect, and that I needed to understand how hard things have been for both my husband and my son too.

I shared my dreams with Pastor Jane, and she gently pointed out that my need to control came from a deep sense of insecurity. She led me in prayer. I realised I had been walking my own path, with my head down, crashing into things and blaming others for the pain. But when I repented and turned back to Jesus, I found a place of true security in Him.

Before I believed in Jesus, I came across a quote about the “Matthew Effect” that said: “Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.” I thought it was just a saying. But after coming to faith, I realised — that’s something Jesus actually said. And it’s so full of wisdom.

During Bible study, one story really touched me — the man who had been sick for 38 years. When Jesus asked him, “Do you want to be healed?”, he responded with complaints and blame. I saw myself in that story. For generations, my family has lived with that kind of mindset — complaining and blaming. I grew up in that environment, and I became the same. My heart was full of resentment. But now I’ve come to see that I need to forgive and allow God to renew my thinking.

At the end of last year, when we had visa issues and I thought I might have to return to China with Lucas, Pastor Jane prayed with me. After that, God sent help and opened the way for our visa to be approved smoothly. I used to worry constantly about Lucas’ learning. Even now, I still have struggles — but I’m learning to bring them to God in prayer.

Not long ago, I had a parent-teacher meeting, and Kayla helped with translating. The teachers praised Lucas, especially his maths teacher, who said Lucas was doing really well. One teacher even said, “I’m proud of him.” I really thank the Lord. I felt God was gently reminding me: “Don’t worry. Lucas’ future is in My hands.”

I’m so thankful that God brought both Lucas and me here — to this church, to Pastor Jane, Brother Raymond, and all the wonderful brothers and sisters. Through the fellowship, I’ve come to know God’s Word more clearly, and the testimonies I’ve heard each week have really touched my heart. I’ve been able to reflect on my own life, and I’m no longer the person I used to be. I don’t live in constant worry anymore. Now, I feel joy every day.

This is my testimony before baptism. My son Lucas is also getting baptised. Thanks to the Youth Group leaders and everyone who has helped him come to know Jesus. May all the glory go to God.