Keep Your Hands Up

During rehabilitation for drug addiction, I accepted Christ as my Saviour and invited him into my life. When I had completed rehab I found it difficult to find work. I did not have much money, and a sea of temptations—both new and old—surrounded me. Then my mother fell seriously ill. At times I was in despair and on the verge of a breakdown. I prayed, but it seemed as if I was receiving no answer or support from God. However, that was not the case.

God directed me to a church where the brothers and sisters welcomed me joyfully. They prayed for me, empathised with me, helped me in whatever ways they could and strengthened me with their words and faith and encouragement. The pastor said, ‘Keep your hands up (a Russian expression meaning ‘Don’t give up’). All will be well. You can do it. God will support you and we—your family—will be close at hand.’ The youth group helped to decorate the flat where I lived with my mother, and when she died the whole church supported me.

Now I am serving as a deacon in the church and try to be near those who need my help—so I can hold up their hands.