“Before coming to the Universal Church, I was a very sad person and was trapped in destructive habits, such as smoking. I’d seek validation through relationships and often pretended to be someone I wasn’t just to feel accepted. On top of that, my family was broken, so I felt really lost.

I had participated in Fasts of Daniel before, but I never truly committed. I would start with good intentions but never followed through. However, when a specific Fast of Daniel was announced, I made a firm decision: this time, it would be MY Fast of Daniel, and I would receive the Holy Spirit. I became completely focused on that goal. It was all I could think about.

Days went by and I still hadn’t received the Holy Spirit, but I refused to let that discourage me. Then, during a special VYG meeting, God revealed that I had been living in pretence. Even in my prayers, I was only saying what I thought God wanted to hear. That moment humbled me, and I realised I had to be completely sincere.

On the Friday before the conclusion of that Fast, we had a night vigil and I was determined that this would be the night I received the Holy Spirit. After the service, the pastor invited those who wanted the Holy Spirit to stay. I knew I wouldn’t leave until it happened.

God was telling me to simply believe – to trust that I could receive His presence. As we stood on the altar, I surrendered everything and believed. That was the moment I received the Holy Spirit.

Now, I no longer chase approval or wear a mask. Challenges still come, but I don’t run to smoking or relationships to escape them. Instead, I turn to God, knowing He is the one who guides me.”