Dima’s story of change began at a Christian camp last year. At the time, he was smoking, gave little thought to God, and was living by his own choices. When leaders found his cigarettes, they spoke with him, and under the camp rules he was sent home.
Hurt and angry, he decided he would never return to church. He went back to old friends, where smoking and drinking were normal, and his life slowly became a cycle he could not escape. Then one day he picked up a Bible given to him by church friends. As he read, something changed. That night, he prayed honestly to God, then fell asleep.
The next morning, he felt free from the pull of cigarettes, alcohol, and the company that had surrounded him. When he heard that the Ark Church in Balti was holding another camp, he asked his mother if he could go. Though she was worried he might repeat past mistakes, she agreed after he promised to behave. Before leaving, he threw away his cigarettes and resolved to stop for good.
At camp, the first day was difficult. He felt lonely and unsure how to connect with others, so he prayed for help. By the next day, he was talking to others, playing games, and beginning to feel part of the team.
Later in the week, when the Gospel invitation was given, he did not plan to go forward in response, but sensed God calling him. He spoke with one of the leaders and later said, “We prayed together and I repented. After that, I felt a special peace inside my soul. I experienced real freedom.”
Looking back, he is grateful for being sent home the first time, because it began his search for God. He now believes difficulties do not have to be faced alone: God hears, helps, and can change a life. Soon to turn 16, he feels as if his life is only just beginning.