FAITH UNFOLDING: DEVINE MARIE SANTOS' POWERHOUSE TESTIMONY

By Devine Marie Santos

As a child, I grew up hearing a lot of negative comments connected to my mother's past. People, including my relatives, would always say I would turn out just like her. In elementary, she graduated as valedictorian, was a scholar of various politicians, and competed in different school competitions. She was an achiever until I entered her life in her second year of secondary school. People would always talk about how her life was wasted after having me. Her parents even disowned her.

These things that I would often hear at my aunt's house whenever I go with her as she works there as a helper, never did I realize, have already been impacting me as a child. This made me want to prove that my mom did not waste her life. I did not want her to regret me. So as a kid, I always wanted to be an achiever, always on top. I was, and I still am. From elementary to senior high, and even now as a college student, I remain a victor. This was how I felt until I realized that I am not content with any of it and I always crave for more. I am currently living in a pressured, overachieving generation, where we constantly feel the need to prove ourselves to everyone around us.

From the powerful messages I heard last year at the IN REAL LIFE Conference, I learned the importance of leaving room for God in my life—making space for Him to work in me while trusting in His power and goodness. For so long, I relied on my strength, intelligence, talents, and decisions, believing that I could handle everything on my own. However, after listening to Pastor Attorney's message, I realized that this self-reliance would never lead to true success or lasting contentment. If I fill my life with my strength only, it is like limiting what God can do in me and through me. So instead, I will surrender and let God move, putting my trust in Him to guide me and transform me.

If you are reading this, take this as a gentle reminder to intentionally leave God a space in your life. Create a room for Him to enter, not just as anybody, but as the central presence that fills every corner of your heart and mind. Allow His presence to permeate your life, bringing His glory, power, and love into every aspect of who you are and what you do. When you let God in, you open yourself to His wisdom, strength, and grace that surpass all understanding.

Remember that God is faithful and will never fail you, abandon you, or leave you to face life's challenges on your own. Trust in Him completely, and you will find peace and fulfillment that no earthly achievement can offer. Let His love and power transform your heart, guide your steps, and sustain you through every season of your life.

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Devine Marie Santos is taking up the program of Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, majoring in Social Studies, currently in her graduating year. She is one of the worship leaders of EFC Worship, the official worship band of Evangelical FREE Church, and also the officer-in-charge of Kidzone, EFC's kids ministry.

Just like Devine, if you have stories to encourage your fellow young professionals in the faith, e-mail us at efcpowerhouse@gmail.com.