When life’s challenges become overwhelming, suicide seems like the easiest way out. If you have thought about ending your life, hang in there—all hope isn’t lost for you. Read John Jerold Cartajena’s story and find out how God can meet you at your lowest point, like how He met him.
John met God when he was about to stab himself.
He lived with his mother since his childhood. She taught him to sell drugs in the streets of Quiapo. When his mother was arrested, John found himself falling into depression, using drugs to cope.
He became angry at the world, thinking he was bombarded with problems, while others had it easy. He wanted to take his own life.
When he was about to stab himself, a bright light flashed in the corner of his eye.
As he let go of the knife to inspect it, he saw the Bible placed on his table.
He took it and said to God, “Thank you! I know that You are there.” John saw it as an intervention.
As he hugged the Bible and turned on the television, The 700 Club Asia was featuring a story about suicide. That’s when John confirmed God was directly speaking to him.
His life changed after he was invited to a Christian church, where he devoted his life to the Lord.
It was in this season that he experienced the love and acceptance he had been searching for his entire life.
“God told me, ‘I love you. I am your father. You are my son. No matter what happens, I have a plan for you.’” John recalled.
As John’s faith grew stronger, so did his desire to overcome his past. He obediently waited until God healed the wounds of his broken life, even bringing his mother to Christ while she was in prison.
John was also able to find and reunite with his father. This quenched his longing to know his biological dad.
“The drugs, the women, the recklessness, it was all useless. It was Jesus that I really needed,” he says. “My life started to have meaning and direction.”
Today, John uses his experience and God-given opportunities to shine the light of hope for his loved ones and those who need comfort and healing.
Are you like John who wants to stop thinking of harming yourself? The Bible has a message of hope for you today:
“The Lord is near to those who are discouraged; he saves those who have lost all hope. Good people suffer many troubles, but the Lord saves them from them all.” (Psalms 34:18-19 GNT)
God sees what you are going through, and He desires to help you—right where you are. Allow us to pray for you and help you bring your concerns to Jesus, call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700.
If you are moved by this story and want to help more people know about God, partner with us today.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts and in need of immediate help, we encourage you to seek professional help and support from family and friends. Please call the National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline at 1553, or contact 0966-351-4518, 0917-899-8726.