debbie mendoza

A Life I Didn’t See Coming

Life rarely turns out the way we imagine.

When I look back, I’m in awe of how far God has brought me. I burst into the year 2000 with bold ambition, a strong will, and big plans. I was certain my future would be built on that same intensity and drive.

But what I didn’t realize then was how much better God’s plans would be than mine.

What changed everything weren’t the big, bold moments I had envisioned, but quiet, faithful steps in a new direction. Steps I took only because people were praying for me, and because God, in His mercy, began to open my eyes.

From Self-Driven to Spirit-Led

The life I thought I wanted back then looks nothing like the life I have now, and I’m deeply grateful for that.

There was no master plan, no five- or ten-year vision. Just a growing awareness that I had wandered away from God too far and for too long. What I wanted most to have was a history of obedience. I didn’t know what that would look like, but I knew where to start: one step, one choice, one surrender at a time.

I haven’t done it perfectly, the people closest to me could tell you that. But even with all my flaws, God has reshaped my life in ways I never could’ve predicted. In fact, I wouldn’t have even known to ask for the life I’m living now.

That’s what grace looks like: transformation beyond our own ideas of success.

Easter: A Personal Celebration of Resurrection

On this Easter Sunday, my heart is full of gratitude. Lent this year has been a season of reflection, repentance, and fighting the battle against distraction.

Back in 2000, I remember saying, “Don’t look at me as an example. Don’t come to me for advice.” Now, here I am—writing and sharing what it looks like to follow Jesus in a real, practical way. That’s a testimony of transformation.

This Sunday, I’ll be in church joining voices with others, lifting up the name of the One who changed everything for me. And yet, even before the music starts or the sermon begins, my heart is already full.

Because Easter isn’t just about a date on the calendar. It’s about the resurrection power that still breathes new life into us, wherever we are on the journey, and whenever we’re ready to surrender.

If you give Jesus control of your plans, your past, your pain, and your life, He will surprise you. Your story will be one you never dreamed was possible.

At this moment, the Holy Spirit can begin the cleanup if you invite Him in. He’ll clear out the hidden corners, the locked closets, the tangled thoughts. He’ll heal what’s broken, renew what’s tired, and shape you into someone you never thought you could become.

I know this is true, because I’ve lived it. I am living it.

“And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless… And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world.” 1 Corinthians 15:14, 19

He. Is. Risen.

And that changes everything.

© Debbie Mendoza, Originally written 2011, updated April 2025