Christina R.

Today, Christina shares with us thoughts on the love that reminded her of God’s waiting love, her freedom from guilt, and her work in coaching women to healthy relationships.

Christina R.

Tell us a bit about how you grew up and your childhood: I grew up in a Christian home and accepted Jesus at the young age of four years old. I remember kneeling in my room with my parents and saying the prayer with them. From that point until high school, I never knew life without Jesus.

In high school, I began to rebel and push God out of my life. I had an attitude of self-sufficiency and viewed Jesus as an option, not a necessity. This mentality lasted until about 9 years ago, when I had my twin daughters. Jesus reminded me that as much I love them, His love for me is even greater. He had been waiting for me to return to His love.

I began attending church regularly in 2011 and recommitted my life to Christ in 2012. Even after this, I struggled with guilt from the selfish life I lead for many years. Through support of three close friends and also some family who are believers, God reminded me once again that He accepts me as I am, even with my flaws. Ephesians 2:4-5 “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved.”

I now live without the guilt of my past. I no longer feel the need to earn His love. I can now enjoy the relationship He intended to and desired to have with me.

“Jesus reminded me that as much I love them, His love for me is even greater.”

Inspiring biblical passage of the moment: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Spiritual growth focus at the moment: I use every car ride as a time to worship and to stay connected and in tune with God all day long.

Profession: I am a Relationship Coach for women.

How do you incorporate your connection with God into your daily, secular work? Although not all of my clients are Christian, they know my beliefs. I promote a wholesome take on today’s dating.

If you wrote a memoir, what would the title be? Your Chaos, God’s Masterpiece

When did you first encounter God and how did you encounter Him? Although I first accepted the Lord at the age of 4, I did not truly encounter his presence until 2014. There were a series of powerful sermons that touched my heart and broke down my walls, one layer at a time. At that point, all I could focus on was Him. I realized I had still been living for me. But He showed me that all I needed was Him.

“He showed me that all I needed was Him.”

What has helped you grow spiritually in this season? Traveling for my husband’s work over this past year has taken me away from everything I knew and everyone I love. God showed my that He is still right beside me, will never leave me, and will provide in abundance.

Just read/currently reading (and what has it taught you?): I find uplifting and positive podcasts to listen to as I clean the house.

Top three essentials: Audio Bible app, journal (yup, actual pen & paper!), and the K-Love app.

How did God speak to you recently? He has laid on my heart that His plans take time. He is asking me to stop rushing and enjoy the NOW.

Hobby: Creating natural beauty products.

Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong: Pray throughout the day (even two minute prayers keep you in touch w/God), have accountability with friends, watch what you feed your mind.

Favorite person in scripture? David.

What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you? God doesn’t want you to pursue perfection before coming to Him. He wants us as we are, broken and raw.

How do you leave your mark on your community? Volunteering/youth mentoring, coaching women in healthy love relationships.

Favorite holiday? Christmas.

A goal you have? Complete the launch of my online course.

A special tradition you and your family engage in or keep: Each year, we have a huge family summer party to bring my side and my husband’s side together.

Question you will ask when you get to heaven? Why is God waiting so long to prompt my husband’s heart to follow Him?

Thing you want to raise awareness about: Women in abusive relationships.

What does your morning routine consist of? Prayer with my kids, audio Bible listening, coffee.

What is on your nightstand? Water, journal, phone.

Define Christianity in a sentence: Christianity is allowing Jesus to live in our heart, work through our lives, and complete His will of leading others to Him.

For more Christina:

IG: @TheCoachChristina

Until next time, keep witnessing!
XOXO