Kayla + Devon’s Transformation Story
Written by Jim Holmlund, Executive Director of Love INC Heartland
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV
One of the biggest common denominators among people who are struggling financially in America is the lack of strong relationships.
At Love In the Name of Christ Heartland, we believe this deeply. We are confident that the reason people stay in our program has much more to do with the relationships they form—especially their relationship with God. He is the only one who can truly transform lives.
Kayla reached out to us a few years ago asking about what resources we could provide. Her story is similar to so many others. People reach out looking for help with financial struggles, and we take the opportunity to begin building a relationship. Kayla was feeling depressed and lonely. She was tired, overworked, and looking for relief.
Kayla and Devon soon started attending the Fresh Start Program, a program at Love INC Heartland that teaches life-skills classes. We believe that people are drawn to it because of the intentional community and the relationships it develops. Kayla and Devon were seeking a faith community and meaningful connections. Our Creator designed us for relationships—we need healthy relationships in our lives.
Kayla shared that one of her early struggles was discovering who she was in Christ. Like so many of us, she had strayed away from God, saying she was “doing everything her way.” She soon learned, “God’s way is always bigger and better than what I could have imagined.”
During her time at our Fresh Start Program, she learned that she is created in God’s perfect image.
She learned she is not a burden to God—that she can live free in His grace and does not need to be weighed down by guilt. She caught a glimpse of God’s unconditional love. One of the most powerful things Kayla shared was this: “I have learned healthy boundaries and relationships along with self-love.” It is very difficult to have healthy relationships with others—or with God—if we do not understand our own self-worth.
Kayla also shared how the Fresh Start Program helped her grow in confidence and become more willing to share her faith in Jesus. She started Fresh Start feeling lonely and hanging on by a prayer. Today, she is more confident and stronger in her faith walk. Her story truly sums up Love INC’s mission: we serve a great God who works His bigger and better plans.
In personal conversations I’ve had with Devon around the Fresh Start dinner table (mealtime is a big part of our intentional community), I’ve heard him share the impact the program has had on him as well. He felt lost before they came to Love INC Heartland, but the relationships and lessons have helped him tremendously. He has shared more than once that they look forward to the Fresh Start Program every Monday night.
When Kayla was asked what she would tell a friend about Love In the Name of Christ, her words were perfect: “Love INC changes lives. It gives resources and helps build relationships. You are never alone, and Love INC proves that.”
Kayla and Devon’s story is similar to many others. Every week, we see growth and signs of transformation—change that only our Father in Heaven can bring. We invite you to be part of these stories of transformation.
Be part of a ministry that believes we can’t just tell people about Jesus—we must be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Three Ways To Get Involved
Pray For Love INC
We believe prayer is an integral part of who we are.
Will you join our prayer team? info@loveincheartland.org
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Whether $5 or $5,000–God will use your gift to transform lives. Become a giving partner today!
loveincheartland.org/donate
Give Online or Mail: Love INC Heartland PO Box 143, Delano, MN 55328
Gift Your Time
We have a variety of ways you can get involved as a volunteer with Love INC Heartland.
loveincheartland.org/volunteer