My name is Sisi, I’m 25 years old and I am originally from Madagascar. I live in Hurstpierpoint and have been in the UK for about 5 years now. I grew up in a very committed Catholic family but sadly didn’t know God personally until much later in my life. Having lived through some traumatic times, I got lost in multiple trials and hardships. I got married at the age of 19 and got stuck in an extremely abusive marriage. I didn’t find the strength to fight or leave because I thought I deserved everything that was happening to me.
One day, I met a Christian neighbour; she prayed for me and gave me my first Bible. God spoke to me whilst I was reading the Gospel of John. He said that I did not deserve any of this, that HE loved me and that I was HIS daughter. HE gave me the strength and confidence to fight this battle.
Today, I am an independent mother of a beautiful girl called Ruby. She is 5 years old and she is light. God has been navigating us through this earthly life though it certainly hasn’t all been easy. Knowing God’s love has enabled me to cope, not only through overcoming different traumas but also battling against multiple chronic illnesses. It feels like life has been and still is challenging me, but somehow my heart is at peace, my soul is happy and I am full of hope! Life before God was messy; I felt alone, weak, ashamed, lost and angry. I guess I am just glad to have Jesus now! He has changed my heart. I have a friend in whom I fully trust and a loving Father who will rescue me in my times of hopelessness.
My favourite verse at the moment is Isaiah 43:2 as it speaks the truth that we will still go through challenges but that we will never be alone:
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”