Facing challenges? - There is always an answer at the foot of the cross.

The Christian world was rocked again by another sad news today. Pastor and writer Jarrid Wilson has died by committing suicide. 

https://relevantmagazine.com/current/pastor-and-writer-jarrid-wilson-has-died-by-suicide/?fbclid=IwAR2YzlUs3O6iKawWhGS26zbd45CXNQSrin0fWxwPKOBu0tnCeXVgipDxESM

 He was a mega-church pastor, author, and mental health advocate. 
"He was also one of my “idols” during my early years in my faith and I followed him on every social media platform because I just like the way he conveys his message", said one of his admirers.
I don't want to speculate the reason for the death. Probably only his wife and close friends would know the answer. Can't imagine their grief and sorrow at this point. May God be their solace during this difficult moment.

 But there are some important lessons that we must take note.
Pastors are also humans, just like everyone else. They too have they fears, worries, sins, just like anyone else. I should know this too well. Humans can and will fail. That is why this  incident is yet another reminder that no matter who we are, no matter how great and how powerful we are, we need God in our lives. We need to keep our focus on Him. In this world, there will be so many challenges, so may fears and so many uncertainties. But one thing is sure. God will never leave us nor forsake us. He is our forgiveness, our hope, our "paraclate" and our future. But we cannot afford to take our eyes from our Lord Jesus.  Heb 12:2 - fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. Always go back to the Father.

 Even if we have sinned, there is no sin too big for God not to forgive. 
"Though millions have found him a friend
And have turned from the sins they have sinned
The Savior still waits to open the gates
And welcome a sinner before it's too late."

 What is seen on the outside may be a deception of what is really going on in the inside. Many people look good on in the outside. Hardly anyone knows their deep sorrows, pains and hurts. The church leadership needs the gift of discernment so that we are sensitive to the needs of our people. Robin Williams, the famed comedian, made millions laugh. Yet he committed suicide because no one could make him laugh and no one knew he had a problem.

 This incident also reminds us that nothing in this world can be taken for granted. Everything in this world must be seen through the lenses of the cross and eternity. Why are we here on the earth? We need to know and fulfill our God given purpose. That's all matters.

 Never forget, no matter how difficult the situation maybe, there is always an answer at the foot of the cross.  There is nothing too hard for our God. There is no problem that he cannot solve. Seek help, speak to your leaders if you are seriously going through some challenges.
"Got any rivers you think are uncrossable?
Got any mountains, you can not tunnel through?
God specialises in things thought impossible
And He can do what no other power can do"


 Everything around us can change. People can change, no matter who they are: 
  • The same blessings that promoted you can be the cause of your downfall. (Saul is a good example). 
  • The same people who sang your praise yesterday will be clamoring for your downfall today. (The people who sang Hosanna to Jesus were crying "crucify him" ta few days later)
  • The same people who were humble can become high handed and full of pride in at short notice.
  • The same people were were serving God together can backslide and become the tools of the enemy.
Only God does not change. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. Therefore trust Him with all your heart. Look unto Him and not unto men. Men will let you down but not our Savior.
What do I take from here?

  1. Be careful what you speak - You will be judged by your words. (Matt 12:37)
  2. Be careful what you think - God judges you by your thoughts (Matt 6)
  3. Be careful in how you serve -  Serve God with all your heart, soul and strength. (Matt 22:37).  Jer 48:10-“Cursed is he who does the work of the LORD with slackness,

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