Being a “Missionary Kid”

My Journey of Faith

Growing up in the church and in a very tight-knit Christian environment has had a significant influence on who I am today.

In the previous blog post, I briefly shared where I grew up and some of the places I lived in Zambia. In this blog, I will expand on and share my experiences growing up as a “missionary kid.”

From the ages of 2 to 13, I grew up at GLO, a Christian missionary organization that trained individuals who were preparing to be leaders in the church. With my grandmother serving as one of the teachers and mentors for women, it was always “bring your kid to work” day. Until I was old enough for school, she had to take care of me while also doing what she was passionate about and called to do. As a result, I was exposed to the concept of God and the deep stories of the Bible from a very young age. I spent many hours sitting at the back of the room with colored pencils and toys to keep me occupied. Before long, I had all the lessons memorized.

In addition to this, Sundays were packed with church services, Sunday school, after-church meetings, and potlucks. During the week, there were prayer meetings, and it was church all day, every day. My grandmother was also very intentional about us having our own family Bible study and encouraged personal quiet time and prayer. For primary school (grades 1 through 7), I attended a Christian school, and for grades 8 through 12, I was at another Christian school. So, all my life, I was surrounded by God and Jesus. It was very much a “church kid” life.

This environment, while nurturing, also led to a certain callousness in my heart toward God. I knew so much about Him, I could recite all the right Christian phrases, and I knew the rituals to fit in. But despite all of that, I was empty and lost inside with no real relationship with God.

I spent many years walking a thin line, lukewarm—neither truly committed nor completely disconnected. Even after I gave my life to Jesus, I had to become more self-aware and cautious not to fall into the trap of merely being a religious person, rather than living a true faith-based lifestyle and relationship with God.

Looking back, I realize what a privilege it was to grow up surrounded by people who selflessly served and loved God. Their example gave me a deeper appreciation for God’s presence in my life and how His loving hand was always guiding me, even when I lost my way. My journey of getting to know God on a deeper, personal level has been far from perfect but has also been incredible with normal ups and downs that come with life and being human but his grace has truly been sufficient. I can now see how all the pieces from the Bible lessons I grew up with have come together to shape my faith.

Thank you so much for reading this blog. I hope you’ve gained a glimpse into my life and the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today, and my journey of finding God for myself.

With love,
Tina