Awakening Through the Loss of a Loved One

The Gospel Truth
5 min readJul 8, 2024

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Just over a month ago, I experienced the profound loss of my beloved sister Jen, who passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. This blog is a heartfelt dedication to her memory — an endeavour that her life has inspired. It’s something I’ve contemplated for a while, but her passing has ignited a deep-seated motivation to take positive action.

Another driving force behind this blog is my realisation from years of pursuing misguided goals. A wise friend, whom I hope will soon contribute to this blog, recently reminded me of the futility of trying to manage life single-handedly without placing God at the forefront. When we attempt to handle life’s challenges as the sole decision-maker, we risk experiencing profound loneliness and isolation. Without the support of a spiritual connection to God and a community of faith, we may grapple with feelings of emptiness and a lack of purpose.

Moreover, making significant decisions without seeking God’s wisdom can lead to unintended consequences. Whether in career choices, relationships, or personal values, relying solely on our own judgment often results in missed opportunities and regret. Recognising this truth has underscored the importance of seeking God’s guidance in every aspect of life — a practice that fosters growth and aligns our paths with His divine plan.

In honoring Jen’s memory and drawing from life’s experiences, my goal is to delve deeply into these themes (and many more) on this blog. Together, let’s embark on a journey toward a deeper understanding of faith, community, and the transformative power found in embracing God’s guidance.

Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

For many years, I recklessly overlooked this eternal truth. I was ensnared by the folly of egocentric, self-centered pursuit of success. I paid the price by chasing after illusory pots of gold at the end of fleeting rainbows. Instead of placing my faith in God, I fixated on self-development and personal responsibility.

Now, in the wake of the painful loss of my sister and with the wise words of a friend echoing in my mind — that God has a better plan for me if only I’m willing to see it — I am humbled. I look forward to discovering the good I can bring into the world when I trust in God’s plan rather than my own stubborn ways.

This recent experience has given me a raw perspective and a renewed determination to weave positivity and purpose into my life by aligning myself with God’s guidance and wisdom.

If you visit my About page, you’ll see that I’ve joyfully chosen to submit to God’s will.

Are You Facing a Crossroads in Your Life?

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to feel like we’re steering our own ships through uncharted waters. We navigate careers, relationships, and personal challenges with varying degrees of success, often relying on our own understanding and strength. But what if there’s a better way? What if, instead of trying to chart our own course, we chose to trust in a higher power — God?

Imagine this: You’re standing at a crossroads, unsure which path to take next. Your mind races with possibilities, uncertainties, and fears. In moments like these, the wisdom of Proverbs 3:5–6 whispers like a beacon in the storm: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”

This isn’t just ancient wisdom; it’s a timeless invitation to surrender our plans and ambitions to a divine plan far greater than our own. It’s about relinquishing control and embracing faith — a daring leap into the unknown, guided by the unwavering assurance that God knows the way.

Think of it as setting sail on an adventure where each decision is infused with purpose and clarity. Instead of anxiously plotting every course and fearing the unexpected, you’re anchored in the certainty that God is steering your ship. Every setback becomes an opportunity for growth, every challenge a chance to deepen your faith.

But what does it really mean to trust in God’s guidance? It’s more than a passive belief; it’s an active, daily choice to align our thoughts, actions, and desires with His will. It’s seeking His wisdom through prayer, studying His Word for direction, and listening for His gentle nudges in our hearts.

Picture yourself walking through life with a newfound confidence and peace, knowing that even in the midst of uncertainty, God is faithfully guiding your steps. Each chapter of your journey unfolds not by your might or intellect alone, but through the transformative power of trusting in His promises.

Sure, there will still be storms to weather and moments of doubt to wrestle with. But amidst it all, there’s an exhilarating freedom in knowing that you’re not navigating alone. You have a divine Navigator who knows the depths of your soul, who sees beyond the horizon, and who promises to make your paths straight.

So, dear reader, as you ponder your own journey and the choices before you, consider this: What if you let go of the helm and allowed God to lead? What adventures await, what heights of faith could you reach, and what miracles might unfold when you dare to trust in His perfect guidance?

Take a leap of faith today. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, seek His will in all you do, and witness as He transforms your life’s journey — and mine — into an exhilarating adventure of purpose, peace, and divine fulfilment.

🙏 Amen 🙏

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