I got baptized.
I declare to the world I claim Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.
Before I share my personal story, here’s what the Bible says about baptism:
"Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'" - Acts 2:38
"Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." - Romans 6:3-4
"Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned." - Mark 16:16
"And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name." - Acts 22:16
"And this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ." - 1 Peter 3:21
These verses highlight the significance of baptism as a profound spiritual experience that marks the beginning of a new life in Christ and the forgiveness of sins. Baptism is a powerful symbol of faith, repentance, and God's saving grace through Jesus Christ.
The decision to get baptized was a pivotal moment in my life—a declaration of my faith in Jesus Christ and a commitment to follow His teachings. Reflecting on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the grace that has guided me through the ups and downs, ultimately leading me back to a profound relationship with God.
My faith journey began at a young age when I was baptized as a baby and grew up attending church. I even recommitted at 17 and was baptized as a young adult. However, as I reached my early twenties and ventured out on my own, I drifted away from the faith and stopped going to church. Life seemed to take me further from God's path, and I made choices that veered me away from His loving presence. Maybe you relate to this, too.
In my mid-twenties, life dealt me a heavy blow—I experienced a mental breakdown and lost my personal training business. Struggling and feeling lost, I cried out to God in desperation. It was a raw and sincere plea, "God if you're real, show me! God if you're real, help me!" In that moment, God answered my prayer, and His presence became undeniable. (Full testimony is in my book)
With His guidance, I found the strength to pick up the pieces and rebuild my life. God walked with me through the challenges, and it was through fit-flavors, my business, that I experienced His hand at work. My commitment to the Christian faith grew deeper with each passing day. I immersed myself in the study of the Bible, seeking to understand every aspect of Christianity.
It was during this transformative time that I found a new church community called Grace here in St. Louis. This church boldly addresses civic, cultural, and political issues with truth and grace. Their teachings resonated with me, and I felt convicted in my heart to seek repentance and recommitment to Jesus Christ. The altar became a place of solace and renewal, and my experience at Grace was robust and invigorating.
As I embraced my faith anew, I also witnessed the transformative power of prayer in my business. God answered prayers I had fervently prayed over fit-flavors, providing guidance and direction that surpassed human understanding. He opened doors and led me along paths I could not have foreseen. My faith became interwoven with my work, and I knew that my purpose was to serve the Lord in all that I do.
The decision to get baptized was the final piece of the puzzle—a symbolic step to recommit and solidify my relationship with Jesus. With my mindset changed, I yearned to follow every step of obedience on this spiritual journey. My desire was to leave no rock unturned in my quest to draw nearer to God and fulfill His purpose for my life.
Looking back, it has been awe-inspiring to see God's hand at work throughout my life and fit-flavors. The amount of challenges I have faced, growth that has happened I could never imagine, personally and professionally, and the blessings that the business is able to pour out on employees, customers and the community. As I continue to walk this path, I am all in—wholeheartedly surrendering to God's plan and purpose.
In this blog, I share my personal journey to baptism and how it reflects my commitment to follow Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. My hope is that my story will inspire and encourage others to seek God's presence in their lives and embrace His love, grace, and transformative power. Let us all strive to be all in, fully surrendering ourselves to God's plan and purpose. It’s better with God!
Yours,
Jillian
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