Dear Pastor,

I am writing to tell you that I have had enough of life's crap and I am seeking ways to exit this world. I think I have done all I can do to make my life and those around me better, but it is not working. It is like going to the gym for a month exercising and still being unfit.

I was laid off about a year now and I still cannot find another job. I spent about $9,000 printing applications, travelling over Jamaica and buying call credit, etc. I even went back to HEART Trust/NTA to get added certification and still nothing has been happening.

I started a taxi business a few months ago and had to give it up because of constant police harassment and extortion from thugs. Most days, I live on less than $500. Some days I go without food.

I am a complete loner. My woman has left me for another man because I cannot provide for her. My friends don't want to have anything to do with me. My family sees me as a big disappointment. This has affected me mentally. I now have evil thoughts and I don't value living anymore. I care zero.

It is frustrating living a life where you don't get any winning results. What is the point? I think I have become mentally unhealthy because of all this pressure. I want rest and I think I am going for it. I cannot handle it anymore.

Frustrated

Dear Frustrated,

You are depressed, very depressed, but God is not dead and I am sure that God has not given up on you. You are going through a hard time. You are down but not out.

The Lord said in the Book of Isaiah 45:2, "When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee, and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee, when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned, neither shall the flame kindle upon thee".

Your life is being tested. Please do not fail the test. Don't yield to the temptation to do wrong or even to attempt suicide. There might even be more difficult times ahead for you, but don't give up. Put your confidence in God and He will give you the victory. Continue to knock on doors. Don't blame anybody for the predicament that you have found yourself in. I repeat, God is not dead. While you look for a job, pray, my brother, pray.

Pastor