Mariah S.

Today, Mariah speaks to us about the passage that introduced her to Jesus and how God found her when she felt like she was drowning.

Mariah S.

Inspiring biblical passage of the moment: “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Not just at the moment, but every single day. I LOVE these verses. It introduced me to Jesus.

Spiritual growth focus at the moment: Asking Jesus for guidance, whether I think I know what I’m doing or I’m completely lost.

Profession: Medical office specialist/Communications student at PSU.

A one sentence bio of yourself: I have so much to say and so much to share– there’s no way I could possibly do it in one sentence!

When did you first encounter God and how did you encounter Him? My first encounter with God was at a time when life was caving in on me, and I was drowning. I was fourteen. I had been familiar with God my entire life but had never taken the initiative myself to speak to Him. I called out to Him on my knees one night, and He met me in my misery. He calmed the waves and pulled me out of the water, and I knew He had been with me all along, and I knew I would never drown again.

“He calmed the waves and pulled me out of the water, and I knew He had been with me all along, and I knew I would never drown again.”

What has helped you grow spiritually in this season? Agh, this is tough. I feel like I’m always learning and in so many different ways. Probably, though, my worship music playlist. I’ve been making more of an effort to turn it on even if I’m not “in the mood.” There’s just something about praising Jesus whether you’re alone or with your brothers and sisters, just singing along and giving praise.

Top three essentials: I don’t really have a top three! There’s not a lot I consider essential.

How did God speak to you recently: God has really been encouraging me to stop trying to control so many things and to let Him control even what I think I can handle.

Hobby: Writing + photography! And recently modern calligraphy!

Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong: Speak to one another, and speak to Jesus. Not when we need Him, but all the time. Encourage one another, pray for one another, ask for guidance, and pray.

Favorite person in scripture? Jesus. As popular as that may be, it’s absolutely true!

What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you? He loves unconditionally.

Favorite season? I like to say summer, but honestly, by the middle of every season I’m always ready for the next.

Favorite holiday? Christmas.

A dream you have? I want to always be doing something that spreads love, I want to encourage this idea that we all have things we can connect over. My dream is to have an occupation that allows me to do that.

A special tradition you and your family engage in or keep: Disneyland, every year! My favorite place to be.

Question you will ask when you get to heaven? Hmm. Not sure.

Thing you want to raise awareness about: We’re all sinners, and we are all loved by God. Have compassion. Have patience. Extend forgiveness.

“Have compassion. Have patience. Extend forgiveness.”

What do you usually do before 9 a.m.? My workout, shower, getting ready for the day, and am already at work!

Define Christianity in a sentence: A relationship with the One who loves you most.

For more Mariah:

Instagram: @xodearjune

Facebook: xodearjune

Website: xodearjune.com

Until next time, keep witnessing!

XOXO