H7 Story: From New Age to New Creation
In a world where self-sufficiency and personal fulfillment reign supreme, Kendra Hinkle's story stands out as a powerful testament to the transformative power of God's grace. Her journey from the New Age movement to a life devoted to Christ showcases the humble acknowledgment of one's brokenness and the incredible love that has the power to heal and restore.
Searching for fulfillment before encountering Christ, Kendra found herself immersed in the New Age movement. Believing in her inherent goodness and sufficiency, she pursued various paths in search of fulfillment and purpose. However, the weight of her own expectations and the disappointment of falling short led her into a profound state of depression. In an attempt to ease her pain, she sought solace in fleeting comforts like food, romance novels, and unhealthy relationships, unwittingly neglecting her family and her own well-being.
In 2016, God used an unexpected avenue to draw Kendra to Himself. A lover of yard sales, she stumbled upon one at a place called First Christian Church (FCC). Stepping through the doors, she was immediately embraced by the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Craving community amidst her fears, Kendra accepted the offer to attend the church for a service the following day, unaware of the life-changing encounter that awaited her.
Kendra describes that first service this way, "I thought it was weird and lovely and I kept coming back." Over a series of weeks and months, as she listened to the message of God's redeeming love and grace, she recognized her own brokenness and desperate need for a Savior. Guided by God's Word and wise counsel, she embraced the next step in her spiritual journey – baptism by immersion and publicly declaring Christ as her Lord. Overwhelmed by the freedom and assurance that came from accepting Christ into her life, Kendra committed herself to serving at FCC.
Searching for fulfillment before encountering Christ, Kendra found herself immersed in the New Age movement. Believing in her inherent goodness and sufficiency, she pursued various paths in search of fulfillment and purpose. However, the weight of her own expectations and the disappointment of falling short led her into a profound state of depression. In an attempt to ease her pain, she sought solace in fleeting comforts like food, romance novels, and unhealthy relationships, unwittingly neglecting her family and her own well-being.
In 2016, God used an unexpected avenue to draw Kendra to Himself. A lover of yard sales, she stumbled upon one at a place called First Christian Church (FCC). Stepping through the doors, she was immediately embraced by the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Craving community amidst her fears, Kendra accepted the offer to attend the church for a service the following day, unaware of the life-changing encounter that awaited her.
Kendra describes that first service this way, "I thought it was weird and lovely and I kept coming back." Over a series of weeks and months, as she listened to the message of God's redeeming love and grace, she recognized her own brokenness and desperate need for a Savior. Guided by God's Word and wise counsel, she embraced the next step in her spiritual journey – baptism by immersion and publicly declaring Christ as her Lord. Overwhelmed by the freedom and assurance that came from accepting Christ into her life, Kendra committed herself to serving at FCC.
Since surrendering her life to Christ, Kendra's transformation has been nothing short of miraculous. With the guidance of God's gracious Spirit and the support of His people, she has left behind the old patterns of thinking and behavior. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, Kendra has become a new creation. Armed with a profound understanding of God's love, she stepped out of her comfort zone, overcame her fears and began leading others towards Christ.
Kendra's faith journey continues today. She has been blessed with opportunities to grow in her relationship with God and serve others within the community at FCC.
Kendra's faith journey continues today. She has been blessed with opportunities to grow in her relationship with God and serve others within the community at FCC.
Today, she serves as the Connections Director and Women's re:gen Coach, leading and inspiring others on their own paths towards redemption and transformation. Kendra's story serves as a powerful reminder that salvation is not earned but received as a gift of God's grace, and it is through His love and the love of His people that true healing and purpose can be found.
Posted in Tell the Story