Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship

I have filled out dozens of different scholarship applications, but not on one of them did I feel comfortable sharing my passion for my faith. I am not ashamed of my faith, not in the least bit, but I do know that if I talk about my faith I will be disqualified from a lot of scholarships am grateful that there is an opportunity like this so that other students and I can share about their faith and not be ashamed of it. Although my life has been beautiful with God surrounding every chapter, I have had a few challenges throughout it. I have over ten different disabilities which can complicate a lot of things in my life. When I was first diagnosed with a few of my health conditions I questioned and doubted God because I wondered how a good God could let this happen to me. It is so hard when you think you have this perfect future that looks beautiful, but it gets warped. I did not understand at the time why God would let me get so sick. I would say I do not quite fully understand but, by my faith, I have been able to grow so much closer to God. I have been able to use the disabilities I have to help some of the students in my church. I have been able to help them keep their faith on their health journeys. My faith has made my disabilities not completely rule me. Yes, I still am sick, but I have God on my side, and he has made my life beautiful despite the challenges. Another challenge I faced in my life where unwavering faith has helped me is when my sister attempted to take her own life. I was only ten at the time, but this was a very traumatic thing that I did not quite understand. Because of this event, I have diagnosed Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Despite the struggle this still causes me, I have already seen the good that has come of it. I learned very quickly that life is something to be treasured, and you never know what someone is going through. I have been able to help some middle scholars in my church through their battles with their siblings attempting and their own mental health battles. My faith is the leading incentive in my future. I am going to a Christian college for a triple major in children’s, youth, and music ministry I have a passion for ministry that is my calling. God has given me the ability to sing and work with young children and students. I already have a lot of experience in all of these fields, but I am excited to see what God does in the coming years of my life. I know that everything that I turn to God he will bless. Jeremiah 17:7 is the verse that I use as my reminder to trust God with everything in my future. It says, "Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him." This reminds me that when I trust in God he will bless my life. I am so excited to see how God uses my life for his holy will.