In My Darkest Moments
Originally Featured in The Javien Chronicles #12
It’s funny how the Holy Spirit works. I already had my article written out but last night in a dark moment of despair an even better story was birthed.
A conversation with a dear friend helped to lift me out of the valley I was in. The words he expressed were very comforting. Friend if you are reading this, Thank You!
Our conversation later turned to religion. He expressed his tarnished views due to an offensive action of a so called Christian.
I have actually encountered many that have fallen away from church for that same reason. I am writing this only because I believe my Jesus was misrepresented.
You see when we profess ourselves as Christians we need to realize that we are representing Jesus Christ. When we receive salvation we are called to repent of our sins (ask for forgiveness of our sins and change our ways to not fall into sin again). We are then called to take up our cross (die to our worldly ways and allow Christ to live through us). Then we are called to be the light of the world (allow God’s light, His grace and mercy to reflect onto others from our being).
So to those who have been offended I hope to convey this message: You will be offended. Luke 17:1 says, “It is impossible that no offenses should come!”
Who more likely to offend you than those that are close to you (church leaders or members, family or friends). Realize this that they may be professing their Christianity but it’s their action that is offensive not the Christ they profess to know.
I pray this that all those offended will forgive their offenders. You see when we withhold forgiveness it is like drinking poison hoping the other person would die.
Remember forgiveness is not forgetting something happened. Forgiveness is saying, “God, I can’t endure this offense. Please take it from me so I can continue to walk in the way of the Lord.”
