Cristian’s Testimony

I always felt that God was with me. When I would get in trouble, I would pray for God to save and help me. I realized that God hates sin. I always believed the reality of heaven and hell.

My dad came to know the Lord in the early 90’s. He would talk to me about God and emphasized how I needed to give my life to the Lord. I knew deep down in my heart that what he was saying was true; but it wasn’t for me. I was too busy, trying to play soccer. Soccer was my life! I would compromise time with the family to play. I hoped to one day play professional. Little did I know God had a greater plan for me. After a series of injuries, I gave my life to God.

During summer league in July 2004, I got hit in the face from an opponent’s forehead. Everything got dark and I felt a great pressure. I was rushed to the hospital where I was tied to a board for 18 hours. Three doctors came to see me. They were talking outside of my room. They were saying things like: “he might die”, and “if he survives, he might be paralyzed for the rest of his life.” I then pictured myself in a wheelchair. I knew that I will never be the same again. The thought of my dad telling me to give my life to Jesus, entered my mind. Images of my whole life flashed before my eyes, and a felt a deep need to repent of my wrong doings. I then cried out, Lord save me, forgive me and heal me. If you will give me another chance, I will give my life to you at the age of 18. I was 17 at the time. Thirteen titanium plates in my right cheekbone were placed during surgery. (to restructure my face.) I recovered and am just like new.

It was now November 2004, and I was expecting to have try outs for various Universities in Ohio. Yet after another injury to my ankle, I was unable to participate or continue playing for a while. I decided to spend my Christmas vacation in Southern California with my dad. During that time, we went to Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. After the break was over, I had to go back to Cleveland, but I felt the Spirit of God drawing me to move to California. My life in Ohio was one of an unbeliever. I felt that if I continue to give into greater sin, that my life would be chocked out of me.

Only by the grace of God, five days after turning 18, I moved to California where I decided to follow Jesus. I have been going to church at Costa Mesa Calvary Chapel. I found that through prayer I can overcome temptation. I know that I am saved by grace through faith. I have repented of my sins and am born-again, by the Spirit of God. I love my new life in Christ, because I know my purpose; my citizenship is in heaven, and I need to be about my Father’s business.

Cristian Toth