God Frees Naomi from Social Anxiety & Sends her to Asia

“I hated anything having to do with church because I was so angry at God,” Naomi says. For years, the pain she carried from being bullied left her feeling isolated and alone. All through middle school, she struggled with anxiety and depression. “I've always had really bad social anxiety,” she says. “So that caused me to kind of stay to myself and not really try and find any community or discipleship.” 

But God met Naomi in the middle of her hurt. 

Last summer, Naomi became friends with Jade, who invited her to attend their church’s summer camp. That’s when God started changing her life. “That week, I feel like my social anxiety left,” she says. “I was very open and was able to connect with people that I didn't even know.”  

Instead of hiding in the background, Naomi found herself boldly stepping out at that camp. She and Jade would walk up to campers they'd never met, asking if they wanted to study the Bible or worship together. “That made me feel really connected with Jesus,” Naomi says. “I felt myself on fire for the Lord.” 

Since that week, Naomi’s life has looked completely different. She’s been spending time in God’s Word, building meaningful friendships, and even found a spiritual mentor. But more than that, she says God has transformed her heart. “My character has changed, and my mindset has changed,” Naomi says. “I used to get really down whenever something negative would happen, but now I realize He allows things because He loves me, He wants my character to grow, and He has a plan.” 

Now, the same God who brought Naomi out of isolation is leading her to step into ministry. Through conversations with her pastor, Naomi was introduced to Encompass, and this summer she’ll go to Thailand and Cambodia as part of our Team Internship program. During the trip, she and her teammates will be immersed in the culture, serve alongside local ministry partners, and participate in hands-on outreach. And because Naomi has such a heart for creativity and art, she’ll also help lead arts and crafts activities for the children they’ll be ministering to. 

For Naomi, this trip is a huge step of faith. She’s never been out of the country or gone on a mission trip before. But even with the unknowns, she knows she can trust God with it. “I’m really excited for the trip,” she says. “I really want to see if this is something that God has in store for me to be part of my life permanently.” 

We’re so encouraged by the way God has pursued Naomi, freed her from anxiety, and filled her life with meaningful relationships. The girl who once felt alone and closed off is now preparing to travel across the world to share the love of Jesus with others! 

Please partner with Naomi in prayer as she prepares to leave the country for the first time. Pray that God would continue to give her courage, peace, and confidence as she fundraises and steps into this calling. And if you feel led, consider supporting Naomi financially as she explores the future God may have for her in missions.