In another heartbreaking story, it was reported by the Christian Post that Pastor Andrew Stoecklein of Inland Hills megachurch committed suicide over this past weekend after battling depression and anxiety. This man of God, whose life was dedicated to sharing Jesus with the world, was undergoing extreme emotional pain that only a select group of people, if any at all, knew about.
My heart breaks at the news of this; it seems to not make any sense. But before we all start speculating and giving our two cents about his passing and what led to it, let us not forget that there are hundreds, if not thousands of people grieving his loss right now– especially his wife, 3 beautiful sons, and other family and friends. They need prayer and support right now more than other people’s speculations.
Let us also not forget that mental illness can affect anyone. If you are feeling depressed, isolated, and/or suicidal, please reach out for help. The suicide hotline number is 1-800-273-8255, and it is open 24/7. Please, please please, as a person who has lost a best friend to suicide, take it from me: there is always something to live for.
Please join with me in prayer and support this week for those closest to Pastor Stoecklein, as well as for the elders of the church, as they move forward in the wake of such tragedy.
ISAIAH 62 PRAYER MINISTRY 