Natasha Daize

“I became a Seventh-day Adventist when I started studying the Bible with my stepmother. I had just moved in with my father, and she was diligent about bringing my brother and I to church. During this time, I started hearing things that were contrary to what I had learned on Sunday school. So, at 12, I just sat there interrogating the pastors. For every question I had, they opened the Bible and showed me the verses.

The funny thing is I remember vividly, before moving in with my father and stepmother, that there was a plaque with the 10 commandments at my mother’s home. I remember praying, ‘Lord, I want to know about the Sabbath.’ As far as a commandment, I didn't understand it. Sure enough, the Lord had already orchestrated that I would learn more about it through my stepmother’s influence. By God's grace, I was led to the absolute truth and was baptized at the age of 20.

I attended three universities at three different states. I was always on the dean’s list. My junior year, I felt like there was something missing. So, I decided to leave school and spend time with the Lord. I'd taken a 10-year break when I decided to enroll at Union College. I was there one semester when I felt called to do medical missionary work.

The Lord just worked things out. He showed me some ministries in West Tennessee, near my family, and in 2015 I was able to earn my certificate as a medical missionary. I will say I learned more in those four months of training than all the years at a university.

Sometimes I think about how much of a nicer house I could have if I had just stayed in school and listened to my father’s advice. He used to take me out in a private jet, let me hang on his sailboat, and got me all these branded clothes and handbags. But all the things my father had to offer me could not compare to what our Heavenly Father has to offer. God has always provided for me. He has all the resources at his fingertips. I've worked on various worldly positions, but nothing is as fulfilling as dedicating your life to God. Christ tells us that He came to give us joy and give it to us more abundantly. I’ve seen Him keep His promise.”

- Natasha Daize, from Camden Church, TN