5 minutes with Pip ...

I'm 21, nearly 22. And I am studying a Bachelor of Arts - majoring in social justice and sociology. I love what I am studying - and am so excited for what future lies ahead. I love reading, music, cool weather and the wind in my hair. What's your favourite bible passage & why? I tend to love verses about how things on this earth are only temporary, our pain here is fleeting, and through it all, God and our saviour are forever and our everlasting comfort - e.g. 1 Peter:23-25 I also love Colossians 3:1-3 -"set your heart on things above" because our lives our now with Christ above, not on earth. How do you keep your eyes fixed on Jesus? I think it's really really important to have a solid friendship and bible/small group that revolve around discussions about the Lord and in general life. It's so important, to discuss real issues with good friends and study the word. For friends to hold you lovingly accountable in your bible reading and prayer and to comfort you and laugh in the good times with you. What would you like the next generation of Christian women to know? I feel like anxiety and depression are becoming more common and its really important to openly discuss these issues, as Christian young women (and men), and for them to realise they are not alone. Also for those they speak to about what they are going through, for them to know the best way to respond, and what Christ would want them to say - not to rebuke, but to love, and to help them seek help when needed. This is so important, as I think sometimes as a society and church in general forget the issues young people and people in general face, and try to hide away from it, so I would love them to know its okay. And to find one person they trust and tell them, so they can help them. God loves you and he will never leave you or forsake you. What's one thing that you love about your local church? I love our friendships and welcoming nature, and the genuinely loving people. Also I love that I am so comfortable there, and that I am loved there and can be honest and open with those around me. What did you learn about God at a time in your life you found hard? That he is faithful. And he will pull you through whatever mess you are in. He will put people in your life who can strengthen you, and has a plan so great for your life. I honestly had no idea four years ago, that I would be where I am today, doing something completely different to what I wanted at the time. God is amazing and can turn something awful into something awesome. What are you passionate about? Learning more and more about the world we live in. Helping others to help themselves. Not being the voice for other people but equipping them to have their own. Opening my eyes more and growing in Christ and my knowledge and love of him, stepping out in faith. What do you enjoy doing when you rest? Listening to music, all types, and reading, doing a puzzle, or sudoku. I love being around my close friends and family.