A Preacher and An Atheist

Dear Friend,
The Lord is ever present and ready to redeem and make new every soul that calls upon His name in truth. The Bible declares that God wishes for none to perish, but for all to come to repentance. When we acknowledge our sin and ask God to forgive us, the Bible says that God forgives us and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. Never allow anyone to tell you that God doesn't forgive and renew. Once we come to Him in repentance, God wipes our slate clean and makes us a new creation in Christ. (2 Peter 3:9) (1 John 1:8-9)I hope you are blessed and encouraged by today's story.

A Preacher And An Atheist
Author Unknown

A preacher and an atheistic barber were once walking through the city slums. Said the barber to the preacher: “This is why I cannot believe in a God of love. If God was as kind as you say, He would not permit all this poverty, disease, and squalor. He would not allow these poor bums to be addicted to dope and other character-destroying habits. No, I cannot believe in a God who permits these things.”
The minister was silent until they met a man who was especially unkempt and filthy. His hair was hanging down his neck and he had a half-inch of stubble on his face. Said the minister: “You must not be a very good barber because you wouldn't permit a man like that to continue living in this neighborhood without a haircut and shave.” Indignantly the barber answered: “Why blame me for that man's condition? I can't help it that he is like that. He has never come in my shop; I could fix him up and make him look like a gentleman!”
Giving the barber a penetrating look, the minister said: “Then don't blame God for allowing the people to continue in their evil ways, when He is constantly inviting them to come and be saved.”
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Father,
Please minister to my discouragement. I have some friends whom I love deeply who are caught in Satan's traps. Make my life a consistent example of compassion and character before them. Please help me see the opportunities when they are more open to Your grace and please use me to share that grace at the appropriate time. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen and Amen