Some stories are tender reminders that even when life takes unexpected turns, God’s hand never lets go. Cadet Nombulelo Khumalo, originally from Khambi Corps in the Northern KZN Division and currently on out-training appointment at Tladi Corps in the Central Division, shares her personal journey of faith—a story of early commitment, wandering, conviction, and restoration. Her words offer a glimpse into what it means to be held by grace, refined through trials, and called into deeper surrender. May her testimony speak hope into your heart.
I joined The Salvation Army from a young age, first enrolled as a Junior Soldier and later as a Senior Soldier. From the very beginning, Christ has been by my side—even during the times when I felt like a lost sheep.
Growing up in the Army, I was an eager and committed young person, always involved in Corps programmes, and I enjoyed working with young people. I found more joy in being at church than anywhere else; it was my safe space and my source of happiness.
I believe that Jesus has been with me throughout my journey, guiding me through the temptations and trials of life. Then I relocated for higher education, and things began to shift. The broad road began to look more appealing—just as Matthew 7:13–14 says: “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.“
In those days, I was exposed to worldly living and made choices that didn’t reflect who I truly am as a Christian. Yet even then, Christ never left me. I often felt convicted, aware that my actions were not aligned with my faith and the Word of God. There was always a voice reminding me that I was created for something greater than the sinful comfort I had chosen.
God never stopped working within me, even when I strayed. I thank Him for making it possible for me to be part of Mission Team 2023, a place of unforgettable transformation in my life. It was there that I began to build a deeper relationship with God and truly got to know who God is.
In 2024, I entered CFOT. Despite the trials, temptations, and challenges, I pressed on, knowing that God walks with me. I learned that walking with Him requires full surrender—letting Him be in charge and allowing Him to prune and guide me. This journey demands that we put God first in our lives and in all we do.
There were times when doubts crept in because of the challenges I faced, but that same voice always reminded me: “You are destined for something great.” Walking with God is about entering into an intimate relationship with Him through faith in His Son (Hebrews 10:22). He becomes our heart’s greatest desire—our focus, our joy, and our strength. Fellowship with Him is not limited to Sunday mornings; it becomes a way of life.
Now, even in this phase of out-training with its challenges, God continues to show His faithfulness. He reminds me daily that I am not alone, and He has a plan for my life. I walk with confidence because I walk with God—He will never leave me nor forsake me.
In closing, John 15:2 says, “He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” That has truly been the story of my walk with Christ. He has been pruning me, shaping me, and preparing me for greater fruitfulness.