Some stories gently remind us that God has been present all along—even when we didn’t yet have the words to name His nearness. That’s the kind of story Cadet Tebogo Nkotane shares. Originally from Mabopane Corps in the Central Division and currently serving at Evutha Corps in the Eastern KZN Division, Cadet Nkotane takes us on a journey paved with hardship, growth, and a deepening relationship with God. His testimony is not only about what he’s come through, but about who he’s becoming—one faithful step at a time. As you read, may you be reminded that no matter your starting point, God can lead you into places of purpose and peace. Sometimes the most powerful callings rise from the most unexpected places.
My walk with God has been a journey marked by both deep struggles and profound moments of grace. I come from a background of hardship—my family often struggled to make ends meet, and life was a daily challenge. In the middle of that struggle, I often wondered if there was more to life than just surviving. Looking back now, I realize that even in those early moments of pain and confusion, God was present. He was drawing me closer, even when I didn’t fully know Him yet.
One of the most defining moments in my life was the loss of my parents. That pain cut deep and left a hole in my heart that I didn’t think could ever heal. But it was through that loss that I began to see God more clearly. In the brokenness, He began to rebuild me. I had no choice but to lean on Him, to cry out when I didn’t understand, and to trust when nothing made sense. What felt like the end of everything became the beginning of a deeper walk with God—one built on trust, surrender, and grace.
Even in my lowest moments, when life felt overwhelming and uncertain, God never abandoned me. Instead, He lovingly restored what was broken within me. He placed mentors, leaders, and friends along my path—people who reminded me of my worth and gently guided me back to His purpose.
One verse that continues to speak to my journey is Jeremiah 30:17: “But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord.” That promise has taken root in my life. God has not only healed the wounds of my past, but He is also calling me forward with renewed purpose.
The call of Isaiah 6:8 now feels deeply personal: “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” I’ve come to understand that God doesn’t wait for us to be perfect. He restores us. He doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called, and then He sends us. I am walking boldly in that calling today.
Now, as I train as a cadet, I still face challenges. The discipline, demands, and pressures can be overwhelming at times. But I am reminded daily of how far God has brought me. His protection, provision, and peace continue to surround me. I stand not in my own strength, but in His. Every test, every lesson, and every small victory is proof of His hand on my life.
Through everything—poverty, loss, grief, and growth—God has been faithful. He has taken what was broken and turned it into something useful for His glory. My journey is not over, but I know I am walking it with Him. He has never failed me, and He never will.
I am living proof that no matter where you come from, God can still use you.
And I will continue to answer His call: Here am I. Send me.