I was scrolling through X when a video stopped me in my tracks. A young blonde woman, covered in tattoos, shared her powerful testimony. She explained how, since following Jesus, she quit drugs, stopped drinking, ended self-harming, and overcame suicidal thoughts. The post’s subheading caught my eye: “It’s [Christianity] a cult that tricks you into healing and purpose!” Her story of transformation inspired me, but the sarcastic framing made me pause. Is this what people think of Christianity today?

Her story fuels my passion for writing a book about why we should give our lives to Christ and how to live for Him. I volunteer in our local jail ministry, where I’ve seen hundreds of women whose lives have been shattered by drugs and alcohol. At their breaking point, often not their first time incarcerated, they reach out to the chaplain’s office for spiritual meetings. I’m randomly assigned to meet with them, and I’m honored to share the hope of Jesus.

These women are desperate for a way out, and I’ve seen Christ transform their lives from despair to joy. Yet, as I write this book, I see growing hate on social media. Many reject the belief that we need Jesus to reach heaven. Moreover, they view Christianity as a cult, claiming those who believe Jesus is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6) are misguided. I believe they’re missing the hope Jesus offers, as I’ve witnessed in the lives I serve. Scripture warns that the god of this age, Satan, has blinded the minds of unbelievers, keeping them from the gospel’s light (2 Corinthians 4:4). The world resists the truth, but the truth is what it needs most.

I sit in community meetings where leaders tackle the mental health crisis, homelessness, social isolation, food scarcity, and childcare shortages. Nonprofits compete for scarce funds to “help people,” yet no one suggests connecting people with local churches. They list churches as donors to tap for money while criticizing them, saying, “All churches want is your money.” They’re the first in line for handouts, yet they have no intention of helping churches grow their attendance. This hypocrisy grieves my soul.

Am I scared? Yes. I fear rejection, isolation, and being labeled a “Jesus freak.” But day by day, God prompts me to speak out. I can no longer watch people chase fleeting hopes, only to end up hopeless, discouraged, and defeated. Their missions are valid and needed, but without God, there will always be a void. Scripture urges us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). When society drifts from God, problems worsen.

I feel the world is more evil today than ever, with rising addiction, division, and godlessness. Do you agree? If not, what makes you see things differently? I welcome the dialogue. Despite my fears, I’m reminded of 2 Timothy 1:7: God gives me a spirit of power, not fear, to share His truth. I’m writing this book because I’ve seen Jesus transform lives, from jail cells to joyful hearts. Join me in sharing this hope, no matter how the world responds. The gospel is the foundation for true healing, and I believe it’s the answer our world desperately needs.
And if you want to watch the video yourself, check it out. I wish more people could experience a transformation like hers: https://x.com/KatKanada_TM/status/1981382525420523653