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It’s ok to not be ok. When we’ve felt overwhelmed, stressed out, when anxiety kicks in and we just feel like we can’t catch our breath, can’t please anyone, as if the world is caving in or like no one cares — I need you to pause. Don’t stop – pause.

Tuesday, Sept. 10, was a little known day of recognition, that some may have never heard of, World Suicide Prevention Day. Last Week was National Suicide Prevention Week. September is National Suicide Prevention Month.

Let’s stop avoiding the topics that make us feel uncomfortable for a moment. If you’re reading this, you have been affected or connected to suicide. We all have friends or family who have fallen victim and it leaves us hurting and filled with questions. Before you read any further please know, you are loved. You are needed. No matter what you are going through it is only temporary. There are tons of people who want to help you find the comfort and peace you’re missing.

You are loved.

Psalm 46 is an amazing song that begins by telling us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble”. It’s ok to not be ok. We all face hard times.

The emotions you are feeling and the struggles you are facing are real and true and hurt. God desires to be your ever- present help. Do not seek a permanent solution to a temporary struggle. It’s ok to not be ok.

Jesus promises in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” There is an evil around us that desires to destroy our thoughts, our mind, our peace.

As Kanye West said in “Heard ‘Em Say,” ‘The devil is alive I feel him breathin.’’’

So guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23.

Satan wants to rob us of all we hope for and he wants to convince us there’s nothing worth living for. For those who are struggling, read this close and slow— You matter. You are worthy. Today needs you and tomorrow too. Don’t give in and don’t give up. There is no shame in admitting you need help and that you struggle. It’s ok to not be ok.

Save this number for someone in need (800) 273- 8255 the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.

We all struggle, even preachers who listen to and bare your hurts, struggles, and sins, of those who talk with them. Who pastors the pastors? So, please check on your Pastors, friends, neighbors. Be the good this world needs!

Rev. J. Cameron Bailey is pastor at Kenbridge Christian Church. He can be reached at www.kenbridgechristian.com.