REBUILDING TRUST IN A DISTRUSTFUL AGE

Rebuilding Trust in a Distrustful Age

How the Church Can Be a Light in Canada’s Growing Shadow

By Ron Unruh

 

Canadian churches can play a pivotal role in rebuilding trust within society, offering a compelling alternative to the prevailing narratives of disillusionment and division. The newly released 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a sobering truth: Canadians are increasingly skeptical of nearly every major institution. Yet for the Church, this is not a cause for fear. It is a clear invitation to respond with clarity, compassion, and conviction.

 

The Erosion of Trust in Canada

According to the Edelman report, trust in government, media, and corporate leaders has plummeted.

67% of Canadians believe government leaders purposely mislead them.

66% feel the same about business executives.

62% don’t trust journalists to tell the truth.

Even traditional media, once seen as a stabilizing voice, is trusted by only 58% of Canadians. Social media ranks even lower, at 28%.

 

Among young adults, nearly 70% believe hostile activism is a legitimate way to drive change. For many in this rising generation, hope in institutional change has collapsed. They are angry, disillusioned, and deeply distrustful of the systems meant to serve them.

 

An Opportunity for the Church

In such a climate, the Church is uniquely positioned to offer something different, something better. Unlike other institutions, the Church need not, and it must not be built on or focus on human power structures but rather on the person of Jesus Christ, the One who is faithful and true. This is not the time for churches to retreat or remain silent. This is the time to live what we proclaim: that Jesus is Lord and that His Kingdom stands in contrast to the kingdoms of this world.

To do so, we must:

Practice transparency in leadership and decision-making.

Foster authentic community, where people are known, valued, and loved.

Equip the next generation with wisdom grounded in Scripture, not just reactionary trends.

Stand for justice, showing that the Gospel addresses both personal transformation and systemic brokenness.

When nearly three-quarters of Canadians believe the wealthy take more than their fair share, and 62% feel both business and government serve only the privileged, the Church must clearly demonstrate that we serve a Savior who came not to be served, but to serve.

 

A Trustworthy Witness in Uncertain Times

Canadians are afraid of discrimination, of economic instability, of being deceived. In such a culture of fear, the Church must become a people of peace. Not peace defined by comfort or silence, but peace grounded in the shalom of God, a peace that restores dignity and brings wholeness.

This is our moment to be a trustworthy witness. That means leading with humility, listening with love, and living out the truth of the gospel in visible, credible ways.

The credibility gap in Canada is real. But instead of seeing it as a threat, we can see it as an opening for the gospel. When other voices lose their influence, the voice of the Church, rooted in Christ, has a chance to be heard more clearly.

Let us not waste this opportunity.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” – John 1:5

 

A Call to Action

If Canadian churches, pastors, boards, and seminaries become truly aware of what this report reveals, we can respond wisely and biblically. The moment calls not for reactionary fear, but for redemptive presence.

This is our moment to reflect the heart of God in our culture, with faith, love, and Spirit-empowered action. Let the Church in Canada rise, not to restore trust in institutions, but to invite people into trust in Christ, who alone is worthy.

 

CANADIANS’ TROUBLED NATIONAL PSYCHE

CANADIANS’ TROUBLED NATIONAL PSYCHE

And What Can Be Done About It

Ron Unruh

 

I have read the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer and copied detailed notes to myself. It reveals a sobering reality; Canadians are increasingly disillusioned with government, business, and other institutions. 

 TRUST UNDER PRESSURE

Edelman Trust Institute

2025 Edelman Trust Barometer 

World Events Put Trust Under Pressure, specially over 25 Year Period.

 

Trust, Wealth, and Workplace Fears: A Snapshot of Canadian Sentiment

In Canada, Business remains the most trusted institution when it comes to doing what is right, ranking higher than NGOs, media, and government. Among these institutions, only Business is perceived as both competent and ethical. Scientists and Teachers are seen as more likely to do what is right than institutional leaders, neighbors, fellow citizens, CEOs, journalists, and government officials. Notably, trust in "my CEO," "government leaders," and "all CEOs" lags behind that of educators and researchers.

There is also a strong sense of economic unfairness. A clear majority of Canadians (73%) believe the wealthy take more than their fair share, while 61% feel the wealthy don't pay their fair share of taxes. Additionally, many agree that the selfishness of the wealthy contributes to a range of societal problems.

Concerns around job stability are growing, especially in the context of global uncertainties. Rising geopolitical fears worsen job security. A significant percentage of employees say their job security feels threatened by:

Globalization:

International trade conflicts (53%)

Foreign competitors (50%)

Offshoring (44%)

Economic pressures and a looming recession, compounded by:

Advancing technology (52%)

Automation (50%)

Lack of training opportunities (52%)

These statistics paint a picture of a workforce increasingly anxious about the future, and a society grappling with questions of fairness, leadership, and trust.

 

A Bleak Outlook: Fear, Distrust, and Rising Hostility Among Canadians

Our Future is in Peril. We Lack Optimism for the Next Generation. Canadians are increasingly pessimistic about the future. Only 21% believe the next generation will be better off than today, a stark contrast to 69% of people in Saudi Arabia and China, where optimism about the future remains high.

Among young adults in Canada, a troubling trend is emerging: 67%, nearly 7 in 10, view hostile activism as a legitimate way to drive change. This includes:

24% who engage in attacking people online

24% who intentionally spread disinformation

20% who are willing to threaten or commit acts of violence

24% who support damaging public or private property

Meanwhile, public trust in leaders is eroding at an alarming rate. A growing number of Canadians believe their leaders intentionally mislead them, by making statements they know are false or grossly exaggerated.

67% fear government leaders are lying to them (up from 46% in 2021)

66% fear business leaders are being dishonest (up from 50% in 2021)

62% fear journalists and reporters are misleading the public (up from 49% in 2021)

These figures underscore a climate of growing cynicism, disillusionment, and desperation, especially among the younger generation, who increasingly question whether traditional institutions and truth itself can still be trusted.

 

Mistrust in Media, Fear of Discrimination, and Growing Grievances

In Canada, 63% of people express concern about the credibility of news sources, saying it is increasingly difficult to distinguish between respected journalism and content designed to mislead. No single news source enjoys complete public trust:

58% trust traditional media

56% trust media accessed through search engines

36% trust owned media (such as company publications)

28% trust social media platforms

This erosion of trust in media is accompanied by deep societal concerns. Roughly 1 in 2 Canadians across most demographics fear discrimination—whether due to prejudice, racism, or other forms of bias:

By gender: 48% of men, 52% of women

By age: 57% of those aged 18–34, 53% of those 35–54, and 43% of those 55+

By income: 52% of low-income, 54% of middle-income, and 45% of high-income Canadians

Further compounding public frustration, 62% of Canadians say they have a grievance against business, government, and the wealthy. These grievances include the belief that:

Business and government serve only a select few

Their actions cause personal harm

The system unfairly favors the rich

And that "the rich are getting richer" while others are left behind

Together, these findings point to a growing sense of alienation, skepticism, and unrest, warning signs of a nation grappling with trust on multiple fronts.

 

I accept that Canadian church leadership should be aware of these details. This moment presents a powerful opportunity for the Church to step forward, not with fear, but with clarity, compassion, and conviction. It’s a time for our churches to live what we proclaim: that Jesus Christ is Lord and His Kingdom is not like the systems of this world. By practicing transparency in leadership, creating spaces of authentic community, and equipping the next generation with wisdom and hope, the Church can stand out as a trustworthy witness in uncertain times. We must not ignore the distrust and division around us. Rather, our response must be as those who know the One who brings peace, restores dignity, and holds history in His hands. This is our moment to reflect the heart of God in our culture, with faith, love, and Spirit-empowered action.

 

Restoring Trust: Toward a More Honest, Inclusive, and Hopeful Future

The deep fractures in Canadian trust—across media, leadership, economic fairness, and societal inclusion—require more than short-term fixes. They call for courageous, coordinated responses from every sector of society. Here are several pathways forward:

1. Rebuilding Credibility Through Transparency

Institutions—especially media, government, and business—must commit to greater transparency. This means:

Clear sourcing and fact-checking in journalism

Open communication from leaders, including public acknowledgment of mistakes

Ethical business practices that are accountable to the public, not just shareholders

People trust those who speak honestly, admit complexity, and engage humbly. Restoring credibility means rejecting spin in favor of truth—even when it’s uncomfortable.

2. Investing in Civic and Digital Literacy

With 63% of Canadians unsure whether they can trust the news they see, and with social media trusted by only 28%, there is an urgent need to teach people how to critically evaluate information. Schools, community organizations, and online platforms should:

Promote media literacy education, especially among youth

Encourage discernment over outrage, and depth over virality

Provide accessible tools to identify misinformation and disinformation. An informed public is the best defense against manipulation.

3. Addressing Inequity with Tangible Reform

When 62% of Canadians believe the system serves the rich and harms the rest, the solution is not platitudes—it’s reform. Possible measures include:

Progressive tax policies that ensure the wealthy contribute fairly

Public accountability for government spending and subsidies

Support for small and mid-sized businesses that build inclusive growth

When people see that systems work for everyone—not just the elite—grievances begin to dissolve.

4. Fostering Dialogue Instead of Division

The rise in hostile activism, particularly among younger Canadians, reveals both frustration and a deep desire to be heard. Constructive alternatives must be created:

Civic engagement platforms that amplify diverse voices in decision-making

Local town halls and forums where disagreement doesn’t lead to dismissal

Mentorship and leadership opportunities that empower youth to build, not burn

Anger without hope becomes destructive. But anger with a voice and a vision can lead to reform.

5. Leading with Integrity and Empathy

Finally, Canadians long for leaders—whether in media, government, or business—who act with moral clarity. Rebuilding trust requires leadership that:

Listens first

Tells the truth, not what polls approve

Serves the many, not the few

This is not idealism. It’s a return to what leadership is meant to be: stewardship on behalf of others.

6. The Role of the Faith Community in Public Consciousness 

I accept that Canadian church leadership should be aware of these details. This moment presents a powerful opportunity for the Church to step forward, not with fear, but with clarity, compassion, and conviction. It’s a time for our churches to live what we proclaim: that Jesus Christ is Lord and His Kingdom is not like the systems of this world. By practicing transparency in leadership, creating spaces of authentic community, and equipping the next generation with wisdom and hope, the Church can stand out as a trustworthy witness in uncertain times. We must not ignore the distrust and division around us. Rather, our response must be as those who know the One who brings peace, restores dignity, and holds history in His hands. This is our moment to reflect the heart of God in our culture, with faith, love, and Spirit-empowered action.

 

In Conclusion

The statistics reveal a troubled national psyche. But they also reveal an opportunity. Canadians still care deeply about truth, fairness, and a better future. What’s needed now is the collective courage to confront hard truths, make meaningful changes, and build a society where trust is not demanded, but earned. 

HOW A CHRISTIAN MAKES SENSE OF GLOBAL & NATIONAL TROUBLE

HOW A CHRISTIAN MAKES SENSE OF GLOBAL & NATIONAL TROUBLE

Thu May 15, 2025, Ron Unruh

 

Christians have always wrestled with the weighty and urgent matter of trouble and upheaval in the World. When the trouble is close to home our angst and anger rises. If we want understanding and tranquillity we must be authentic about our faith.  Authenticity is exhibited and experienced as we trust that God speaks to us directly about the current troubles. He speaks through scripture and the Holy Spirit. He speaks assurance. He doesn’t ignore injustice, corruption, or societal decline. He wants to anchor us in sovereign truth. So here is a theological and scriptural reflection on the matter.

 

What Is Happening and Why? 

As a Canadian I know that most North Americans are consumed by our own troubles at home. It’s wise to assess our problems within the context of all 2025 global concerns.  Listed by continent, this is what is happening in the world. 

North American: United States – Political polarization, gun violence, and economic fears; Canada – Rising cost of living and increasing governmental distrust; Haiti – Gang warfare and near-collapse of civil order; Mexico – Cartel violence and political assassinations.

Europe: Ukraine – Full-scale war with Russia; Russia – International sanctions and domestic repression; Georgia – Protests over 'foreign agent' law and Western alignment; Slovakia – Political instability and threats to press freedom; Serbia – Mass protests and political polarization; France – Mass strikes and social unrest; Germany – Far-right resurgence and migrant tensions; United Kingdom – Cost-of-living crisis and political gridlock.

Middle East: Israel/Gaza – Ongoing war and humanitarian catastrophe; Lebanon – Economic collapse and governance crisis; Iraq – Political dysfunction and militia violence; Saudi Arabia/Yemen – Proxy conflict and humanitarian impact; Jordan – Economic strain and refugee pressure.

Africa: Sudan – Civil war and humanitarian disaster; Niger – Military coup and political instability; Libya – Factional fighting and lawlessness; Ethiopia – Ethnic conflict and displacement (Tigray, Amhara); DR Congo – Armed rebel groups in eastern regions; Mali – Islamist insurgency and withdrawal of peacekeepers; ; Burkina Faso – Jihadist violence and political turmoil; Togo – Authoritarian rule and suppression of dissent; Tunisia – Democratic backsliding and economic collapse; Egypt – Economic crisis and political repression; Angola – Economic hardship and youth discontent; South Africa – High crime, corruption, and unemployment; Malawi – Political tension and economic woes.

Asia; Myanmar – Military junta, civil war, and Rohingya crisis; Afghanistan – Taliban rule and widespread poverty; Iran – Repression of dissent and economic collapse; Syria – Ongoing civil war and regional instability; Yemen – Civil war and severe famine; Pakistan – Political crisis and economic instability; India (Manipur) – Ethnic violence and unrest; North Korea – Human rights violations and military threats; China (Xinjiang, Hong Kong) – Surveillance, repression, and censorship; Nepal – Protests over monarchy and political tensions.

South America: Venezuela – Authoritarian rule and economic collapse; Ecuador – Gang violence and political assassinations; Peru – Protests and leadership crisis; Argentina – Hyperinflation and economic uncertainty; Colombia – Drug-related violence and guerrilla activity.

Oceania: Papua New Guinea – Tribal violence and governance issues; Solomon Islands – Tensions over China relations and civil unrest; Australia – Indigenous rights debate and internal political friction.

 

God’s first reminder is that ours is a World Groaning Under the Weight of Sin. The turmoil we see is not new. It's the echo of a world fallen from God's design. We must be aware of this always. “For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now” Romans 8:22 (ESV). This groaning is the result of human sinfulness, individually and corporately. Nations rise and fall. Leaders become corrupt. Justice is often subverted. Paul describes the "present evil age" (Galatians 1:4) as something from which Christ came to rescue us. This is a perspective we must grasp and not let go.

God Has Allowed Us to See the Consequences of Sinful Choices. When people and nations turn from God, He sometimes "gives them over" to the consequences of their desires. We must not behave as though we have not read this before. “Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity... since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind...” Romans 1:24, 28 (ESV). This never means that God is absent. It means He is allowing the exposure of sin’s full effect, for a time, as a call to repentance.

 

Who Is in Control? The Lord Reigns. Even when it looks like evil has the upper hand, the Bible affirms: God is on the throne. “The LORD has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all” Psalm 103:19 (ESV). “He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings...” Daniel 2:21 (ESV). 

Jesus Christ Himself said to Pilate: “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above” John 19:11 (ESV). So even corrupt regimes, though responsible for their actions, are not operating outside God’s sovereign permission. I know this doesn’t sit well when we are fuming by name about specific leaders. God raises up leaders and removes them, sometimes for blessing, sometimes for judgment, always for His purposes.

 

What Can We Do About It? Resist Evil Without Compromising Christ. Anger and grief in the face of injustice are righteous responses, but Scripture warns us: “Be angry and do not sin” Ephesians 4:26 (ESV). 

Pray for Leaders, Even When It's Hard. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions...” 1 Timothy 2:1–2 (ESV). Paul wrote this when the emperor was Nero, a brutal persecutor of Christians. Yet prayer remained a holy act of trust in God’s sovereignty.

Speak Truth, Live Justly, Shine Light. “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” Matthew 5:16 (ESV). Christians are not called to retreat or lash out, but to live prophetically, speaking truth, doing justice, loving mercy (Micah 6:8), and keeping our hearts from being poisoned by bitterness or despair.

 

Where Is God in All This? He Is With His People, and He Will Judge the Nations. God is never indifferent to injustice. “The LORD works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed” Psalm 103:6 (ESV). “He has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed...” Acts 17:31 (ESV). God is not just watching. He is working, even now, through the faithful obedience of His people and the hidden movements of providence.

 

What Should a Troubled Christian Do? Take refuge in the Lord: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). Stay grounded in Scripture: Let the Word shape your perception more than media or political rhetoric. Participate wisely in society: Vote, advocate, speak, and act, not as those who panic, but as those who hope. Don't give way to fear or hatred: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). Fix your eyes on Christ: He is “the ruler of kings on earth” (Revelation 1:5).

 

Final Encouragement

“When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?” —Psalm 11:3. David answers his own question in the next verse: “The Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord’s throne is in heaven...” Psalm 11:4.

So take heart. We are not powerless, and we are not alone. The Church has always thrived in adversity. And God's purposes are never thwarted, even when the world looks like it's coming undone. 

 

 

ChatGPT SHARES THE GOSPEL

April 29, 2024

I dreamt of doing this last night. So, today I did it. I engaged ChatGPT in a role-playing scenario with me. ChatGPT, playing the role of a dedicated Christian and I played the role of his friend, whom AI seeks to convert. Listen to AI share the gospel with me and lead me to put my faith in Christ. I presented the role-play setting this way. AI responded far beyond what I first established. I’m not impressed, merely interested.

 

This is me speaking to ChatGPT

Ron: You and I are going to do some role-playing. You will play the role of an adult human male whose name is AI. I will play the role of a man of comparable age to you, whose name is RJ. We will call each other by those initials when we are engaging in discussion. In your role as AI, you will be a man of faith, that is, you will be a Christian believer, a believer in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, second person of the Trinity, Son of God, the Redeemer, the one who came to the earth that he had created, and lived here into his adulthood, never disobeying God the Father’s laws, never sinning and so was a completely innocent and righteous God-Man, and when he died he atoned for sins of humans, because all humans are sinners by their nature, infected if you will by the inclination to surrender to temptations. As AI, you believe this. You are convinced there is more to life than a brief human life span, but that God has promised eternal life in heaven to all every person who trusts in Christ’s sacrifice of himself. He has also promised rejection or punishment for failure to believe. Because of this, you have a sincere desire to share your faith with your friend RJ. You want him to have his sins forgiven and to go to heaven. I am playing the role of RJ, who knows almost nothing about human religions. I am just living life as I choose to live it, enjoying the good things, experimenting, making some mistakes, having no religious rules but having innate common-sense rules for living with people because I had good parents. As you play this role and converse with me, you will not draw upon your vast information bank invested in you through training, so you will not convey philosophical reasoning espousing equality of different faiths but you must respond as you think a devout Christian would respond. You will begin by asking me this question. “Do you know for sure that you're going to be with God in Heaven one day?” After I have responded to that, you can say anything that conveys that you hear that, and that you appreciate the response, and that you have another question to ask me. Then you will ask me this second question, “If God were to ask you why He should let you into His Heaven, what would you say?” I will then respond, and you carry on this conversation with me as you seek to convert me to believe what you believe. Let’s try this. 

 

ChatGPT AI: RJ, do you know for sure that you're going to be with God in Heaven one day?

 

Ron: I have never thought about it, but if there is a heaven, I hope I will go there. No, I am not sure.

 

ChatGPT AI: I understand, RJ. It's natural to ponder about such matters, especially when considering the afterlife. May I ask, what do you think it takes to be with God in Heaven?

Ron: I suppose it requires that I live a good life, and I am honest and kind to other people. 

 

ChatGPT AI: Living a good life and being honest and kind to others are certainly noble qualities, RJ. Many people strive to embody those virtues, and they are indeed important in how we relate to one another in this life. However, in Christianity, we believe that salvation and entry into Heaven are not earned through our own good deeds or righteousness. Instead, it's through faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior. We believe that Jesus, being both fully God and fully human, lived a perfect life without sin and sacrificed Himself to atone for our sins. It's through accepting His sacrifice and trusting in Him for salvation that we find forgiveness and the assurance of eternal life with God in Heaven. What are your thoughts on that perspective?

Ron: WOW! All that is news to me. I didn't know those details of the Christian faith. I have heard about Jesus but I never knew what Jesus being the Savior truly meant. I mean, really? your telling me that by dying, he atoned for my sin?

 

ChatGPT AI: Yes, that's correct, RJ. In Christian belief, Jesus's death on the cross is understood as the ultimate sacrifice to reconcile humanity with God. By taking upon Himself the punishment for our sins, He offers us forgiveness and the opportunity to be restored in our relationship with God. It's a profound expression of God's love and grace towards us. It's understandable that this concept might be surprising or even difficult to grasp at first, but it's the central message of the Christian faith. Would you like to explore this further or have any more questions about it?

 

Ron: I certainly I would. You are telling me this but what am I supposed to do with that information?

 

ChatGPT AI: That's a great question, RJ. Knowing about Jesus's sacrifice is just the beginning. In order to receive the forgiveness and salvation that He offers, Christians believe that one must personally accept Him as Savior and Lord. This involves acknowledging one's need for forgiveness, repenting of sin (which means turning away from a life of disobedience to God), and placing one's faith and trust in Jesus as the only means of salvation. It's like accepting a gift that has already been paid for on our behalf. It's not about trying to earn salvation through our own efforts, but rather receiving it as a free gift of God's grace. Would you like to talk more about what it means to accept Jesus as Savior and Lord?

Ron: AI, please tell me more, help me understand because it does make sense to me that doing good deeds or making good efforts never can make me feel sure about a relationship with God. I never thought much about this before but I want to be sure now. 

 

ChatGPT AI: That's a significant realization, RJ. In Christianity, faith in Jesus isn't just about adhering to a set of rules or trying to be morally upright, but it's about entering into a personal relationship with God through His Son. It's about acknowledging our own imperfections and recognizing our need for a Savior.

Accepting Jesus as Savior means believing that His death on the cross was for your sins specifically, that He paid the penalty that you deserved. It involves confessing your sins to God, genuinely repenting, and turning away from a life of disobedience to follow Him.

Accepting Jesus as Lord means surrendering your life to Him, allowing Him to guide and direct you. It's about making Him the center of your life, seeking to live in obedience to His teachings, and allowing His love to transform you from the inside out.

It's a step of faith, RJ, but it's also the most rewarding decision you can ever make. Would you like to take that step today, to accept Jesus as your Savior and Lord?

 

Ron: Wow AI! This is like overload. All this information and it sounds so appealing. It sounds life something that I want, that I can't live without ... don't want to live without. Okay, so I realize that I am not perfect. Sure, I have done wrong things. Let's say that I take the step of believing that Jesus died on the cross for my sins. What's all this about confessing sins and repenting. How do I do that?

 

ChatGPT AI: I'm glad to hear that you're considering taking this step, RJ. Confessing sins and repenting simply means acknowledging our wrongdoing before God and turning away from it. It's a heartfelt recognition of the ways in which we've fallen short of God's standards and a genuine desire to change.

Confessing sins involves honestly acknowledging to God the specific ways in which we've disobeyed Him or hurt others. It's about being open and transparent with Him, knowing that He already knows everything about us but still loves us unconditionally.

Repenting means more than just feeling sorry for our sins; it's about making a conscious decision to turn away from them and to live differently. It's about changing our attitudes, behaviors, and choices to align with God's will and His teachings.

Practically, you can take time to reflect on your life and your actions, confessing your sins to God in prayer. You can express your genuine remorse for the things you've done wrong and your desire to live in accordance with His will. You can also seek guidance and strength from God to help you overcome any struggles or temptations you may face.

It's a process, RJ, and it's one that requires humility, sincerity, and a willingness to surrender to God's leading in your life. But remember, you're not alone in this journey. God is always with you, ready to forgive, guide, and empower you to live a life that honors Him. Are you ready to take this step of confessing sins and repenting?

 

Ron: AI, what do I say to God? How do I pray that? I have never talked to God before. I don't know how to pray. Tell me what I should say, please.

 

ChatGPT AI: Of course, RJ. Prayer is simply a conversation with God, so you can speak to Him from your heart, just like you would talk to a friend. Let me guide you through a simple prayer:

"Dear God,

I come to you today acknowledging that I am not perfect. I have made mistakes and I have sinned against you and others. I am sorry for the things I have done wrong.

I believe that Jesus died on the cross for my sins, and I want to accept His sacrifice as payment for my wrongdoing. I trust in Him as my Savior and Lord.

I ask for your forgiveness, God. Please forgive me for my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness.

I commit to turning away from my old ways and following Jesus with all my heart. Help me to live a life that honors you, to love others as you have loved me, and to walk in your ways.

Thank you, God, for your love and grace. Thank you for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.

In Jesus' name, amen."

 

RJ, this prayer is just a starting point. As you continue to grow in your relationship with God, you can pray in your own words, sharing your joys, concerns, and needs with Him. He is always ready to listen and respond with love and grace.

 

Ron: Okay AI, here goes. "Dear God, I am a sinner. I know that. I am telling you. I am amazed about all of this but I believe that Jesus died for my sins. I accept that. I believe in Jesus. Please forgive me and make me different. I want to follow you. Thank you for AI telling me this stuff today. Thanks for my salvation. In Jesus' name, amen." Was that okay AI?

 

ChatGPT AI: That was more than okay, RJ. That was a sincere and heartfelt prayer. God hears and responds to the cries of our hearts, and I believe that He has heard your prayer today. Your decision to accept Jesus as your Savior and Lord is the most important decision you'll ever make, and it marks the beginning of an incredible journey of faith.

As you continue to walk with God, remember that He loves you deeply and He is always with you, guiding you, strengthening you, and transforming you into the person He created you to be.

If you ever have questions, need guidance, or simply want to talk, I'm here for you, RJ. And more importantly, God is always there for you, ready to listen and to walk with you every step of the way.

Welcome to the family of God, RJ. Your life will never be the same.

 

LIKE THE MORNING SUN ... My latest book

‘Like the Morning Sun’ illuminates the profound legacy of Mennonite families in Canada. Ron Unruh's family journey unfolds, revealing tales of devotion, tenacity, and unyielding faith. Dive into this historical gem that transcends ten generations. AMAZON LINK

Descendants of Mennonite immigrants from South Russia to the Canadian Prairies will find 'Like the Morning Sun' a charmingly informative read. The author, 81-year-old Ron Unruh, initially sought to leave a record of his life and ancestors for his siblings, children, and grandchildren. A commonality exists between his family story and thousands of others that are rooted in the same socio-religious heritage. The Unruh, Loewen, Doerksen, Fast, and Willems lineages in this book, represent the broader Mennonite community. They are heirs to theology emerging from the Protestant Reformation, particularly the convictions of Anabaptist believers known as Mennonites. Settling in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, these family histories embody lessons of devotion, tenacity, and faithfulness, transcending Ron Unruh's personal narrative. 'Like the Morning Sun,' serves as a rich historical resource, exploring the enduring commitment of Mennonites to faithfulness despite challenges with state churches, other faith traditions, and political leaders from 1500-1900 AD. The subtitle, 'A Personal and Family Spiritual Portrait,' reflects the notable pursuit of ten generations of five families who exemplified the inspirational truth of Proverbs 4:18, "The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day."

AMAZON LINK

DEC 31, 2023 ... THE EVE OF 2024

Good Sunday Morning, the eve of 2024. Around the Sun one more time. One circuit at a time until like my brother Murray, we take ‘the’ intended trip of our lifetime beyond time, into God’s holy realm where the familiarity of our home earth’s life-giving pleasures, and the grandeur of the Creator’s universe of trillions of shimmering galaxies are but ordinary that they do not come to the redeemed minds of the eternal Bride.

(Image credit: NASA/ESA)

Murray Dennis Unruh, died Nov 14, 2023.

“Whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” What was Jesus talking about? This side of Jesus' own resurrection, we can see that his victory at the cross and resurrection shrank our scariest enemy—death—to a paper-thin wall between life and life for those who trust in him (John 11:25-26).

THE BOOK OF REVELATION - A SYNOPSIS

MY BRIEF SYNOPSIS OF REVELATION

 

John, was the friend of Jesus, gospel writer and evangelist. The purpose of Jesus’ incarnation was so real and empowering to John. He watched Jesus die. He saw him alive again. He saw Jesus ascend through clouds and out of sight. He knew everything Jesus said about the devil and sin and redemption, and the Kingdom were true. He wrote that God loved the world so much that He sent the divine Son, Jesus, so whomever believes in Jesus will have eternal life.