This ugly practice came to us with the advent of Pentecostalism. Trials, adversities are part of human condition. Even animals go through trials. Before Pentecostals hijacked Christianity in Nigeria, we were encouraged to bear trials with strength and faith. Clerics preached the story of Job, the travails of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace etc. It is unfeeling to preach repentance and surrender to a cancer patient when what is needed is support, words of succor and strength. It is wrong to imply illness is a variable in suffering when it is at its very nature, random.
Dear friends, if you are are going through a rough patch, through illness, job loss, and the ignorant preacher comes peddling drivel, ask him or her; what sin did John The Baptist commit to warrant beheading?
To anyone going through trial this Sunday morning, I say; "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." James 1:12
I, Bamidele have gone through blistering trials and ill health. In every circumstance, I believe only a useless life is without scars. I also know that I cannot measure happiness if I don't know pain. I gained compassion because I have lived through weakness. At those times. I read, 2 Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness"
Good morning.
No comments