Jen Tan: What Defines You?

                  

Read Scripture: Romans 6:1–4

"We can consciously choose to treat the desires and temptations of the old nature as if they are dead. Then we can continue to enjoy our wonderful new life with Jesus." - Jen Tan

Have you ever faced a problem that left you feeling hopeless and helpless? Illness, loss, or overwhelming challenges can make faith feel distant. Yet it is precisely in these moments that God calls us to trust His love. The question before us is: What defines us? Is it our old nature, our illness, or our circumstances—or is it faith in God’s power to bring change?

Jen’s testimony reminds us of this truth. She says - 

"As my trip to Japan with my sister came to an end and I returned to Singapore with a reluctant heart, I found myself having to face reality again. Being in a foreign place, away from my normal daily life, allowed me to forget for a while that I am still a cancer patient undergoing treatment.

However, in the days after returning home, as I continued reading the Bible, a thought kept echoing in my mind: why should I let cancer control my life? Instead, I should take ownership of the body that God has given me and learn to manage this illness. Most importantly, I must have faith in God and walk in partnership with Him.

The Bible emphasizes God’s love in giving us the Holy Spirit to dwell within us, so that we have a reservoir of power and love to draw on each day—helping us face every challenge and trial. His promises are real, and I am reminded to remain joyful—because faith brings joy".

She says, as she continued reading Romans, she realized: God has given her a body to steward, a Spirit to empower, and a Savior to walk alongside. Faith means choosing to live in partnership with Him, not under the shadow of illness.

What can we learn from this? Here are some active thoughts - 

Choose faith over fear: Treat the old nature and despair as dead, and embrace the new life in Christ.

Steward your body and mind: Illness or hardship does not define you; God’s Spirit empowers you to manage and overcome.

Walk in partnership with God: Invite Him daily into your challenges, knowing He is faithful.

Remain joyful: Joy is not the absence of struggle but the presence of faith.

Please do pray for Jen as she walks with Jesus on this path.