In late 2024, 25-year-old Fundizwi Faith Sibonelosemusa Simelane, from Maliyaduma, had a powerful spiritual experience.
Although raised in a religious home and a regular churchgoer, Simelane had previously considered herself a ‘lukewarm’ Christian, struggling to balance her faith with worldly pursuits.
In October, while attending a girls’ quarterly meeting at the Manzini Assemblies of God, Simelane’s life changed. During a sermon, a woman preacher delivered a message that touched her, stating that a young woman couldn’t be a follower of Christ while also engaging in relationships and earthly activities.
Simelane, who had heard similar messages before, was deeply moved by the words, and she found herself weeping throughout the sermon. She later realised that it was the Holy Spirit convicting her. This marked her first encounter with the Holy Spirit.
After returning home, Simelane felt a strong conviction to end her romantic relationship. Though she was deeply in love, she chose to obey this inner voice, ending the relationship by text in the middle of the night. A few months later, she was baptised and she believes that God began to work through her. She notes that while her journey has been challenging, God has helped her through every situation; even as she has lost friends and had to give up various earthly activities.
While still a student, Simelane felt the urge to engage in the social life of her peers, but she says God removed her desire for it and taught her self-control through prayer.
She now lives by the verse 1 Thessalonians 5:22: “Abstain from every form of evil,” which she interprets as prioritising her relationship with God over appearing ‘cool’. She also shares that the Holy Spirit has guided her in her new life, influencing everything from how she dresses to how she carries herself.
Quoting 1 Timothy 4:12, she now carries herself in a way that she believes represents Christ, understanding that she has set her life apart for Him.
Simelane offers advice for other young people on a similar faith journey. She stresses the importance of having a spiritual mentor, suggesting that one should pray for the right person to be revealed.
She also encourages fellowshipping with people who are equally yoked in their faith and using the Bible as a weapon against temptation. Simelane urges all young people to come to Christ, as God has been wonderful to her and has helped through many situations.
Leave a comment