God never lets his children down

Since childhood, it was clear to me how my life would go. My parents taught me the message of Jesus Christ. I went to Sunday school, youth groups, youth camps and youth groups and was actively involved in some of them. On August 26, 1973, I decided to place my life completely under God's guidance. Shortly after, I was baptized. John 10:28-29 is my baptismal motto: "And I give them eternal life, and they will never perish." No one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father has given them to me and is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand." Only now, after 45 years, have I really become aware of the meaning of these words.

At 25, I had everything: a good job, a house with a pool, trips to faraway countries, a lovely wife and three children. I asked myself what the future might bring. Should I continue in the same rut? No, I didn't want that. I was looking for adventure and independence. No one should give me orders or restrict me - not even God.

One failure followed another. I was finally sentenced to 36 months in prison. But I didn't understand that God wanted to show me that this life couldn't be successful. In prison, I didn't think about my situation; instead, I planned to flee to the Canary Islands. Without documents and money, my wife and children also became an obstacle; we eventually separated.

The path back to Jesus was out of the question for me - even though he had once successfully guided my life. I ended up in Brazil by chance via Portugal; as a young Christian, I wanted to become a missionary there! But parties outweighed my desire to turn back.

Life rippled along; Sometimes I earned good money - but I spent it just as quickly! Previous success no longer worked really well in the long term. I lived like that for years; successes were rare and mostly just short-lived flashes in the pan.

There were many young people living in the area who could no longer earn a sufficient income as fishermen. The lack of prospects led to a rapid increase in the crime rate. My well-run restaurant was also attacked and robbed several times by armed youth gangs.

Nine times in one year a loaded revolver was held to my head. Only Jesus saved me from death. Finally, for fear of being robbed, the guests stayed away and I had to close the business. Financially, I was left empty-handed again - but I had finally gained an important insight.

In 2016, I returned to Switzerland completely bankrupt, devastated and without any prospects. There I knelt before God and repented. Jesus also died on the cross for my adventures and forgave me. Likewise, I forgave the thieves in Brazil and put what had happened behind me. Now I am preparing to return to Brazil again. This time I want to be a role model. Maybe I can help one or the other not to get involved in crime.

Pray that God will enlighten the hearts of the weakest among us. Children in particular will see the opportunities that a solid education can offer them for the future. May their lives be changed forever as a result.

For donations, contact me and let's make a difference!

E-mail: peter.rieser@oxente.ch

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