# @hopewdm on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DXeTmxykeDr
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/64596769-hopewdm-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/b81202e924.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-04-23T12:05:35.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** HOPE (@HopeWDM) — https://gondola.cc/HopeWDM

## Caption

Before God grew my faith, I didn’t really know him well. I understood Christianity, but not why it should be an important part of my life. I grew up Christian—I was baptized as a baby and accepted Jesus into my heart when I was around 7. I understood the head knowledge and I believed in God, but I didn’t apply it to my life very well.
 
During sixth grade, my grandpa unexpectedly passed away. At his funerals—one in Iowa and one in Illinois—I realized I didn’t know much about his past. I knew him as a fun, silly, servant-hearted, loving grandparent, but others knew him differently. I got to hear from many people about how he impacted their lives. I learned so much about the ways he helped and cared for others. It made me love and respect him even more.
 
I didn’t know how to handle the loss, but I tried to do what I’d been taught, which was to lean on God. I grew a lot closer to him because I actually needed him for support. I also learned what people are going through when they say they’ve lost a loved one and how much of an impact it can have on a person.
 
I now realize God’s plan and the many lessons that came from my grandpa’s passing. I was reminded not to judge others—you never know what someone is dealing with. I had to remember that no one is perfect, and I should try my best to treat others as I want to be treated. Another lesson I learned was that anything can be taken away at any moment, so it’s important to value your loved ones and not take anything for granted. I learned to be content in my faith and my life, no matter the circumstances, but I also know that I can always grow in my faith.
 
At times, it can be easy to focus on the negative and not step back and realize how blessed you are. Trying to focus on the positive, big or small, helps me put into perspective what’s important. God showed me that he’s always with me, and it brings me comfort and courage knowing I can get through anything with God by my side. I plan to deepen my relationship with God. I know there will be highs and lows in my faith, but I know that God has a plan, and it will only make my faith stronger. 
 
Morgan L.
#HopeWDMStories
#FaithStatement

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## Credits

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## Tags

faithstatement, hopewdmstories

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