Finding Hope in the Dark
Dear friend,
Do you feel like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of guilt and shame? Are you struggling to break free from the grip of repeated failure? I want to share with you a story of hope and transformation, one that reminds us that no matter how dark our past may be, God’s mercy and love can lead us into the light.
A Story of Redemption
I recall a friend who came to faith in Christ in his late twenties, carrying a heavy burden of immorality. His life was marked by polyamorous relationships and bisexual desires, but as he began to follow Jesus, he started to experience a profound shift. It wasn’t an overnight change, but a gradual process of growth and transformation.
My friend described his journey as a series of small victories, where 900 moments of immorality became 700, then 500, and eventually, 200. It was a hard-won battle, but one that was fueled by his deepening understanding of Christ’s love and mercy.
The Power of Presumption
So, what sustained my friend through the ups and downs of his journey? He learned to presume on Christ’s love, to trust that Jesus knew the kind of person he had chosen to forgive and save. This presumption gave him the courage to seek Christ’s mercies daily, to ask for forgiveness, strength, protection, and guidance.
As he walked in the light of Christ’s love, my friend began to rebuild his life, learning to treat others as holy brothers and sisters rather than objects of lust. He discovered the joy of serving others, particularly teenage boys who were navigating the challenges of adolescence in a hypersexualized world.
Fighting Darkness with Light
One of the most powerful metaphors for the Christian life is the image of a room filled with darkness. How do we expel the darkness and fill the room with light? We stand up to the darkness, saying no to evil, and we fill the room with worthy actions, true thoughts, and constructive people.
As Christ enters the room, he teaches us to say no to what is wrong and yes to what is merciful and good. My friend’s journey is a testament to the power of this process, as he learned to care for others and fill his life with light, leaving less room for darkness.
Hope in the Midst of Brokenness
If you’re struggling with sexual brokenness, know that there is hope. Christ comes with mercy for those who know their sins, and his mercy leads to simple, consistent actions that head in the right direction. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results; transformation is a long-term process.
Remember, there are no magic answers, but a Person full of light is willing to walk with you in the direction of the light. He is willing to walk with you the whole way home.
May you find hope and encouragement in the midst of your struggles, and may you know the transforming power of Christ’s love and mercy.
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