My Journey of Faith
by Jip
A Life Transformed
From an orphanage in Singapore to law enforcement in London, my journey has been marked by God’s guidance at every step. Though I drifted away in my youth, I rediscovered faith in 2000 and experienced a profound encounter with the Holy Spirit that changed my life forever. Today, I live with gratitude, purpose, and the conviction that with Jesus, all things are possible.
Early Foundations
I was born in Singapore and placed in an orphanage before being adopted by my parents while my father was stationed there with the RAF. The first foundations of faith were laid when I was christened and later attended a convent nursery in Cyprus.
In England, I went to a Church of England village school. I have fond memories of singing assembly hymns such as All Things Bright and Beautiful and He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands. My mum taught Sunday school, and I was later confirmed.
At that stage, however, I didn’t truly understand what it meant to have a relationship with God. By my late teens, after moving away, I lost contact with the church.
“It’s fair to say, at that stage, I didn’t understand what it was to have a relationship with God.”
Rekindling My Faith
My faith was reignited in February 2000 when I met my biological mother in Singapore. She introduced me to members of her Seventh Day Adventist Church, whose warmth and hospitality touched me deeply.
When I returned to London, I shared the experience with my boss, who recommended two churches. On 2nd April 2000 – Mothering Sunday – I walked into St Paul’s Evangelical Church in Surrey. This became my spiritual home for the next 21 years, with an interlude at Hillsong and Vineyard.
I attended an Alpha course, and although I was still unsure—even sceptical—everything changed during the Holy Spirit weekend.
“I felt an intense heat run from the top of my head down through my whole torso, followed by peace and tranquillity.”
That was my pivotal moment—when I finally understood what it meant to be born again. From that day, I acknowledged Jesus as part of my daily life. My confusion lifted, and I found clarity, purpose, and gratitude.
Walking With God
Over the years, I’ve learned to trust rather than question. Whatever the circumstance, God equips me with the tools to navigate life. Through songs, scripture, conversations, or unexpected encounters, He continually places people in my path to steer me back on track.
My relationship with Jesus reminds me of my imperfections—patience being one of my struggles—but also of His grace. I believe Heaven is on earth and that life is no rehearsal. Despite negativity in the world, I strive to live fully, serve others, and help the vulnerable without judgment.
“In all decisions I try to put God first, so as to be right with Him.”
As Psalm 139:13 reminds us: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.”
A Shift in Calling
When my hospitality career took me to London, I worked in a high-end Knightsbridge restaurant, serving fine dining to the privileged few. Living in Brixton, however, exposed me to another reality—one of struggle and resilience.
I vividly recall an elderly woman at the underground station, entertaining commuters by playing music on a comb and tissue paper. Her resourcefulness moved me deeply and sparked a major shift in my life’s direction.
In the mid-1990s, I entered law enforcement, dedicating myself to serving Londoners. I encountered both the most vulnerable—crime victims, the disadvantaged, offenders—and the academic elite, such as barristers and eminent pathologists. Yet my greatest fulfilment came from helping those without a voice.
“I have witnessed the very best and the darkest aspects of humanity. I have learned that everyone deserves respect, empathy, and hope.”
Anchored in Christ
Life is unpredictable, but we don’t face it alone. Knowing Jesus was sacrificed for me is humbling. No matter where I am, I know I belong to a family in Christ—united in faith and service, sharing His love and helping those in need.
Jesus is my rock, my anchor, my strength, my shield, and my comfort.
In Him, all things are possible. I feel deeply blessed, and excited, to walk each day with Him by my side.
