The struggle with same sex attraction is real. But you don’t have to struggle alone or in silence.

You’ve heard my story. Now, on behalf of my dear friend, Vincent, we are unashamed to share his (LGBT) story with you too.

God has been so good to free Vincent from 29 years of sexual bondage which started from a childhood incident when he was 5 years old. Vincent has chosen to share his story in hope to be a voice of encouragement to others who may find themselves in a similar situation.

If you are a victim of sexual abuse or inappropriate advances, you need to know that you have a voice to change your situation.

It is possible to break out of the shadows of shame and addictions. You don’t have to feel hopeless or powerless.

Take the small step to share your story with someone you trust and let the healing process begin.

Come Out. Come Home.

Pastor Ian

The post The Struggle Is Real first appeared on 3:16 Church.

I believe shame dies when stories are told in safe places.

When I shared my story to my church and Dad, I found myself freed from the bondage and repercussions of being sexually abused when I was 5 years old.

Today I choose to share my story with you. My hope is that it will help many others to experience the freedom and love as I did.

I believe every story counts. It counts to know that you are not alone.

If you are a victim of sexual abuse. If you are wounded and silenced, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to share your story with someone you trust and let them journey with you.

Shame has no place in our purpose, plan and destiny. Be unashamed to speak.

Pastor Ian

The post Come Out. Come Home. first appeared on 3:16 Church.

My name is Joseph, and this is my love story.

I’ve been searching for love since I was a young boy. For half my life, I looked up to men for affection and security that I had never experienced before. The relationships were pleasurable, but they never satisfied. I felt so empty within. There was shame I could not shun and a deep hurt that wouldn’t go away. The more encounters I had with men, the lonelier I felt. I yearned for love – love that would satisfy and bring joy; love that would never fail.

God pursued my heart. He showed me crazy love – relentless and pure. I met a people who loved God. They loved me so much. It was not the sexual or emotional love that I was used to, but an unconditional love that came from God the Father.

God wasn’t judging me. He was loving me. He wanted to forgive me. He desired a relationship with me. God never gave up on me. He has always been there.

As the love of God overflows my life, I no longer want to act upon my homosexual desires because I have found love in the right place, in the heart of my Father. As He holds me in his arms, I know that His love outlasts the ends of days. It goes deeper and deeper, and I’ll sing of Him until my voice won’t let me…

Dear friends, God loves you so much. Come as you are, and let His love change you.

The struggles are so real. But I am overcoming. I will overcome.

I’ve found family. This is Love. God is Love.

Love,
Joseph

The post This Is Family. This Is Love. first appeared on 3:16 Church.

Amy’s story declares the freedom of love. This freedom liberates her from finding her identity in gender. This love flows straight from Jesus Himself.

Amy’s journey of lesbianism was one of confusion and uncertainty. Now, she lives a life of joy, courage and security in Christ. Amy was resigned to her life of homosexual activity but God freed her. She used to believe that her sexual tendencies would forever remain. But God lifted those inclinations and turned her heart to Him.

The church has so much to learn from her story. Christians need to realise that we are a broken people. We face challenges in our relationships and our journeys are fraught with insecurity, fear and hurt. It is certainly not all rainbows and unicorns. The world needs God’s grace and love.

Lastly, I would like to thank Amy for sharing her story. Thank you for coming out, and for coming home. Coming out is never easy, but coming home is worth it.

Home,
Ian Toh
Lead Pastor
3:16 Church

The post Come Out. Come Home. first appeared on 3:16 Church.