Jonathan Davis – God’s Grace in Every Step
Life’s journey has often felt like climbing a mountain blindfolded, but through the challenges, God has continuously illuminated my path. Born with muscular dystrophy, walking was never easy for me. Yet even in the deepest valleys, I’ve seen evidence of God’s unwavering love—sometimes in quiet whispers, and other times in monumental ways.
At 15 years old, I faced one of the most defining moments of my life. I underwent surgery to fix a severe contracture in my neck that hindered my movements. The procedure, which was intended to bring relief, instead left me with a catastrophic spinal injury. It was an agonizing twist in the story of my life. Despite this, I believe God was shielding me from even worse consequences. It could have been far more devastating, and I hold firmly to the belief that His hand was protecting me that day.
The aftermath was an abyss of despair. Struggling with depression and the unknown future was overwhelming. Yet God’s light broke through the darkness, rekindling hope in my heart. He surrounded me with caregivers, family members, and friends—people who were not just physical helpers but spiritual anchors. Through them, I felt God’s presence in action. They reminded me over and over; I was not alone. God was with me every step of the way, often working through their kindness and love.
At 20, God continued to demonstrate His faithfulness in my life. I achieved milestones I once thought impossible – moving into my own home and graduating from the University of Michigan–Dearborn with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. These accomplishments were far more than personal victories. They were vivid displays of God’s strength and grace, enabling me to overcome limitations and imagine a future I hadn’t dared to dream.
One of the greatest blessings has been finding a spiritual home at Brightmoor Christian Church. Though my journey with this church has only recently begun, the impact has been deep. Here,
I’ve felt nothing but love, acceptance, and a renewed sense of purpose. Brightmoor has helped bring me closer to Jesus. Worshipping alongside this community, hearing His word preached passionately, and engaging in fellowship has reignited a sense of purpose that transcends my hardships. God isn’t done with me yet.
If there’s one truth I’ve learned, it’s that our greatest trials are often the inspiration for our greatest testimonies. Yes, I was born with a disability, and yes, I have endured hardships that most can’t imagine, but this does not define me. What defines me is the God who carries me, who heals hearts even when bodies remain broken, and who turns pain into purpose. Brightmoor Christian Church has become part of this unfolding purpose—a place where I’ve continued to grow in faith and fellowship. For this, and for a Savior who will never abandon me, I am endlessly grateful.
As 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
These words remind me daily that Christ’s power rests not in the absence of struggle but in His ability to sustain us through it.
Jonathan Davis
