I had a hard time growing up because I never knew what would set my mother off. Life with her was like walking on egg shells—she would be loving and kind one moment, then fly into a rage the next. She would also tell me that she loved me, then scream at me saying I was “ugly, stupid, lazy, and a good-for-nothing little girl whom no one could love.”

Many nights, I went to bed thinking that I was ugly and unlovable—inside and out. As a result, I had very low self-esteem and thought that if my own mother could say those things about me, they must be true. My teenage years were turbulent and filled with self-hatred. But looking back, I realized that God’s grace was upon my life. He had protected me from many situations that could have cost me my life.

When I became a mother, I realized I needed help. I did not want to continue being a broken person and pass on this sense of brokenness to my children. I prayed, asking God to change my heart and make me whole.

God was so faithful! He took every lie that my mother had told me and showed me how beautiful, smart, and loving I was. He put together the broken pieces of my life, healed my heart in a powerful way, restored my soul, and gave me peace.

God also showed me how to “switch off” the perverted tape of self-hatred that kept replaying in my mind. He taught me how to look to Jesus and the truth of the cross, which sends the enemy running.

He then gave me great compassion for my mother. Instead of being angry and bitter toward her, I was able to forgive her. Today, I can minister to her, love her, show her grace, and pray for her deliverance.

Looking back, I realized God saw what I went through and had deep compassion for me. He took my brokenness and gave me hope and life. He is truly a loving Father and a God of restoration.

Through the truth and power of the cross, the effects of my mother’s actions in my life have been taken away. Also, the hurtful words from the past have no more effect on me. Praise God for His goodness and grace!

I also thank God for Pastor Prince’s ministry. I have learned so much about the gospel of grace and the beauty of my Lord and Savior Jesus. I have often shared these gospel truths with my mother. God is so faithful. He has truly transformed my life and His loving-kindness knows no bounds!