After He delivered me from a life of depression and atheism at the age of 22, it became apparent that God was calling me into full-time ministry. Soon after, I went through the greatest trial of my life. While leading a three-week mission trip, I experienced pain every hour, every day. However, as I preached nightly, the pain miraculously disappeared until after the message was finished.
I was later diagnosed with cancer, which was treated with surgery and chemotherapy. My immune system collapsed, and I developed a septic infection. My blood pressure plummeted to 55/27, and my life hung by a thread. Thousands of people around the world prayed for me, and my students fasted and conducted a prayer walk around the hospital. The next morning, I had a lifesaving breakthrough, explained only by divine providence! Miracles continued, and against all odds, I was soon cancer-free and back to ministry.
While I was lying on my bed in ICU, God taught me numerous lessons about complete surrender to Him. After wrestling with Him, I determined that whether I lived or died, I would trust and praise Him in the outcome. I learned to ask, “How can this bring me closer to You and bring You glory?” rather than, “Why would this happen to me?”
Humanly speaking, I should be dead, but God’s love is greater than death. He is the Life and Resurrection and still works miracles! He loves us ministers intimately and draws close to us in every difficulty. He will increase our faith as we trust Him in everything, not merely the good.
Will you surrender all and allow Him to strengthen your heart in the personal trials you face today?
—Wes Peppers is currently studying for his masters in pastoral ministry and pastors in Lansing, Michigan, United States.