I’m not the example to look to, but I know the truth: Jesus is the Way.
Some of you may have noticed that I’ve been on somewhat of a bit of a writing hiatus the past year or so. I feel like I should be honest with my readers: The truth is, I’ve been struggling with some mental health issues the past year, so I’ve needed to take a step back from apologetics and writing, because it was just too stressful. I’ve needed to refocus my life on the good that’s happening in my life and in the world, rather than predominantly focusing on the negatives and corruption that I see creeping into the laity of the Church and in society generally. This mental illness has manifested as sinful actions re-manifesting themselves in my life. This has prompted me to reemphasise the truth: that I am not the example to look to.
You guys, I’m a sinner. I still make many mistakes; I fall; I struggle; I have my challenges; I don’t have everything figured out, nor do I have all the answers. There are many things that I’m still working on; but, this I’m certain of: Jesus is the Christ, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is his restored church. Accordingly, I’m certain that Jesus atoned for us, so, if we believe in and follow his example, that we are “fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him” (Romans 8:17 ESV). Jesus is the only example that we should be holding up. No influencers; no apostles; no prophets; only JESUS CHRIST. He alone is the “Way, the Truth, and the Life.”
I’m sure that social/political Leftists and ex-Mormons will read this and gloat, thinking that the mere presence of my struggles is proof that the Restored Gospel is destructive to mental health and same-sex-attracted individuals; that it’s because I’m “living a lie” that I’m struggling or having challenges. I vehemently declare, “No!” Struggles and challenges are merely the result of living in a fallen world and having a fallen, imperfect mind and body. We all struggle and have challenges no matter where we fall on the ideological/religious spectrum. But, I can tell you this: nothing gives me more strength, determination, hope, and joy than my belief in Jesus Christ and his gospel, and his edifying grace that I feel imparted when I strive to submit to his will—nothing.
I will fall at times, and I will definitely come out short at the end of all things, but my Saviour Jesus Christ is my only source of true joy, and I am all in to the end.
