Friday, April 24th
Greetings Living Word Church,
I hope this message finds you in good health and spirits. This week many have confided in me that they are feeling down, depressed, emotionally exhausted, afraid and alone. Many people have also shared with me throughout this pandemic that their friends and people they know were growing depressed, hopeless and some were considering suicide. I know our enemy the Devil is seeking to use this pandemic as an opportunity to steal, kill and destroy including tempting many to take their own lives. But Jesus has come so that we may have life and have it abundantly! (John 10:10)
So if you are struggling physically or emotionally, I invite us to come to Jesus our Good Shepherd who laid down his life so that we may live forever (John 10:11). And if others are struggling, I invite you to share the peace and hope that you have in Jesus. Jesus says to his disciples, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27).
This peace and hope is not available to everyone. It is only available to those who have come to Jesus. So as you are praying for, listening to and speaking with your neighbors ask God to help you lead them to Jesus if they aren't already following him. And as people comment on the peace, hope and love that you exhibit and ask how you could be acting that way during a time like this, share the hope that you have in Christ and ask them if they want to experience the same.
1 Peter 3:15b says, "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." The reason for the hope we have is in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior! Many have already come to Jesus during this pandemic. In fact, we just baptized two people yesterday! And I know God wants to use you to help lead your neighbors to Christ. If you need more help in how to lead someone to Jesus, please reply and let me know and we will help you! Finally, if you know of anyone who is depressed or even considering taking their life, please let us know so we can pray with you and for them. And share this number for the Good Samaritan's organization: (877) 870-4673 The Good Samaritans provide 24/7 crisis counseling over the phone to anyone who is considering suicide.
And check out their website https://samaritanshope.org/ to learn more about how you can identify warning signs and perhaps even volunteer with them yourself.
Love your Neighbor,
Pastor Daniel