BreakthroughTestimonies

From Deep Pain to Deep Love

By Hazel Teo, Zion Full Gospel Church

God transformed brokenness into divine purpose.

Life’s journey often takes us through valleys before leading us to mountaintops. A few years ago, I found myself in one of those valleys—lost, broken, and questioning life’s purpose. In my search for love and meaning, I made choices that left me hurt and deceived. When every door seemed closed, God opened one that changed everything: a three-month course at Tung Ling Bible School. It was there that I laid my burdens at Jesus’ feet and began to rediscover His love.

Ministering to the children brought unspeakable joy.

A Defining Encounter
During a spiritual deliverance session, I experienced God’s presence in a way I had never known before. It wasn’t about dramatic signs—it was about the undeniable assurance that He was near. Soon after, I was unexpectedly asked to share my testimony before 150 students. I prayed, “Lord, let Your words flow,” and He did. That moment affirmed what I had begun to believe: Jesus Christ is the living God.

Later, I faced a panel of professional leaders for an important interview. To my surprise, the conversation turned to faith, and my testimony resonated deeply with one of the leaders. It reminded me that God uses every setting—whether in church or the marketplace—to reveal His goodness and open doors that no one can shut.

Ministry taught me to trust in Him.

Lessons in Trust
God’s plans rarely unfold the way we expect, but they always meet what we truly need. After Bible school, I volunteered for mission trips to the Philippines and Indonesia. In those quiet nights and whispered prayers, God was shaping my heart—teaching me to lean fully on Him. When I arrived in the Philippines, three job offers came unexpectedly in a slow job market. It was a clear sign of His provision and a reminder that His timing is perfect.

Preaching for the first time in a foreign land was daunting. I fasted and prayed, asking God to consecrate me as His vessel. The night before, a melody stirred in my heart: “I raise a Hallelujah.” Resources came together miraculously, and during the service, someone burdened by grief found freedom. It was never about my ability—it was about God’s power working through a willing heart.

God equips those He calls.

God’s Presence in Every Season
On another trip to Batam, I was asked to portray Jesus in a skit. Fear crept in, but as I prayed, I sensed His reassurance: “Do not be afraid—you are My child.” The performance overflowed with His presence, touching hearts in ways words could not. People wept as they encountered the reality of Christ’s love through the drama. In that moment, I realized that God equips those He calls.

One unforgettable moment came when a classmate from Nagaland approached me after a session. She shared that she had seen me in a dream and asked for prayer for her children. As I prayed for her, I realized that God was speaking to me too—reminding me not to worry about my own children. His care is personal, and His promises are sure.

Through these experiences, I’ve learned that God speaks in many ways—through Scripture, through circumstances, and through the quiet conviction in our hearts. His goodness is constant, not seasonal. What I once called coincidence, I now see as divine orchestration—doors opening at the right time, delays that became protection, and conversations that carried eternal weight.

God works through us to be a blessing to the people we minister to.

A Heart Transformed
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is that God is not looking for eloquence or perfection—He is looking for a surrendered heart. As Isaiah 6:8 (NIV) declares, “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!'” When we make ourselves available, He does the impossible through us.

I can see the fingerprints of God in moments I once overlooked. He opened doors that came at just the right time and closed doors that later proved to be divine protection. Conversations, delays, and redirections—all woven together by His perfect wisdom. What I once called coincidence, I now recognize as God’s careful leading.

God does the impossible through us.

Closing Reflection
Looking back, I see how God’s goodness has been constant through every season. He provided when I was unsure, guided me when I had no clarity, and reminded me that His plans are always higher than mine. The Lord has shown me that His goodness is not seasonal—it flows from His character.

As Psalm 23:6 (NIV) declares:
“Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

God’s goodness is with me.

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