By Nancy Virden (c)2023

Eighteen years ago I told a pastor that I felt trapped. In my mind’s eye, I was standing in the middle of the road with a MACK truck barreling down on me. On each side of the road were wild dogs, snarling and waiting for me to come in their direction. That’s a horrible imaginative event, and it is what my suicidal thoughts felt like at the time.

The pastor said I forgot the most important detail; that Jesus was above me and about to snatch me to safety.

I wanted to believe him. I trusted Jesus but also felt that continuing life as it had been was an invitation to more pain. Turns out the pastor was right. With the help and prayerful support from him and others, suicidal ideation passed.

Nearly two decades later, I stand as a living testimony to what only God can do. That is, he eventually removed my scarred emotions and replaced them with joy. It was not quick work, however, it was permanent.

The Bible commands those of us who have hope to be always ready to give a reason for that hope. The reason for my hope is that God loves, sees, knows, and heals. There is a life (a forever one) after this one, so do not let anyone tell you life is short. We do not have to achieve or experience every opportunity for happiness now. It is far more important to live with forever in mind.

Jesus is prepared to snatch us from the cages we find ourselves in whether we built those cages ourselves or not. Fierce threats on either side do not deter him from saving our souls. Turn to him. He becomes the mediator between you and God, the guide to your best life, and the hope of your eternal joy.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

1 Peter 3:15

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experience and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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