Chapter 25: The Prophet's Burden

Richard could no longer bear the turmoil eating at him. Days had passed since his visit to Susan’s house, yet his heart still wrestled between conviction and desire.

The dreams, the thoughts, and now the strange spiritual pull toward her, it was all too much to carry alone.

That evening, he drove to see his mentor, Pastor Samuel, a man he deeply respected. Pastor Samuel had been like a father to him, a firm but gentle guide since his early days in ministry. When Richard arrived, the older man could immediately sense his restlessness.

“My son,” Pastor Samuel said warmly, motioning him to sit, “you look burdened. What troubles your heart?”

Richard sighed heavily, struggling to find the right words. “Sir… I don’t even know where to start. It’s about Susan.”

The pastor raised his brow slightly. “The same lady from that public confession?”

“Yes, sir,” Richard nodded. “I went to her house to pray for her, and ever since that day, I’ve been fighting something inside me. I don’t understand what’s happening. It’s like I’m drawn to her in ways I can’t explain. I’ve prayed, fasted, rebuked it… but the more I do, the stronger it feels.

And there’s more, I keep sensing that there’s something spiritual between us. It’s as though God is trying to show me something”

Pastor Samuel listened quietly, hands folded on his lap. When Richard finished, he gave a slow, thoughtful nod.

“You know, Richard,” he began, “not every connection in life is carnal. Sometimes, what feels like temptation might also be a test or even a divine assignment.”

He leaned forward, his tone calm but firm. “Do you remember the prophet Hosea?”

Richard frowned slightly, thinking. “Yes, sir. God told him to marry a prostitute.”

“Exactly,” Pastor Samuel said. “It sounded unreasonable to men, but it was a message from God...a picture of His love for the unfaithful. I’m not saying your situation is the same, but I’m saying this, don’t rush to condemn yourself. Ask God what this means. Is it a distraction, or is it destiny? Only He can tell you.”

Richard looked down, his heart pounding. “Sir, I’m afraid of being wrong. What if this is just my flesh talking?”

“That’s why you must stay in prayer,” Pastor Samuel replied gently. “Don’t flee from God’s voice because you’re afraid of what He might say. Go back to the secret place. Seek clarity, not escape.”

He placed a hand on Richard’s shoulder. “If this is of God, He will confirm it in a way that leaves no doubt. But if it’s not, He will give you peace to let it go. Either way, don’t carry the guilt of feeling...bring it before Him.”

Richard nodded slowly, eyes misty. “Thank you, sir.”

“Remember,” the pastor added, “love and purpose are not always separate. Sometimes, the one God sends to you is the one you least expect.”

As Richard left the pastor’s house that night, the words echoed in his mind like a prophecy. Ask God for direction… Is it distraction or destiny?

The question lingered long after he drove into the quiet street.