Fourteen-year-old Devin recently shared his heartfelt experience after attending a youth learning session at Christ Central Ministries—a night that left a lasting impression on his young faith journey.

Invited by his youth pastor, Mr. Michael Spears, Devin described him as “an amazing youth pastor” and spoke with gratitude about the opportunity to grow in understanding of the Bible. The evening’s focus was on the history of Scripture, particularly the writings of Paul in the New Testament. Students explored when the letters were written, their purpose, and how they still speak to believers today.

But the session didn’t stop there. Pastor Jimmy led the group to think critically about modern influences, especially “the things to watch out for in schools and colleges,” encouraging them to discern truth in a world filled with competing voices.

For Devin, one moment stood above the rest. As the evening closed in prayer, Pastor Jimmy said something that struck him deeply:

“Not to be religious, but to be godly.”

That phrase, Devin said, has stayed with him. “There’s a lot of wisdom in knowing the difference between those two and knowing how to apply that to your life.”

His reflection captures the heart of discipleship—learning that true faith is not about outward habits or performance, but about inward transformation. At just fourteen, Devin is already learning what many spend a lifetime discovering: that the goal is not religion, but relationship.

Christ Central Ministries continues to provide these transformative learning moments—equipping young believers like Devin to live wisely, love deeply, and walk humbly with God.