When HIV/Aids touches your life …

You are not forgotten

Perhaps you are one of the millions of people in our country for whom HIV/Aids has become a stark reality. Like many of those affected by HIV/Aids, you probably struggle with emotions such as shame, anger and a sense of helplessness and loss, while fearing that you or those closest to you will be abandoned.

God cares!

The Bible shows us that God has a special love and concern for those who have been ignored and excluded by society. When you feel abandoned, God reaches out to you:

God is our mighty fortress,

always ready to help in times of trouble.

Psalm 46:1

If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, come to me and I will give you rest. Take the yoke I give you. Put it on your shoulders and learn from me. I am gentle and humble, and you will find rest. This yoke is easy to bear, and this burden is light.

Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus came into the world to be its Saviour, not its Judge

God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn its people. He sent him to save them! No one who has faith in God’s Son will be condemned.

John 3:16-18a

I know that my Saviour lives,

and at the end he will stand on this earth.

My flesh may be destroyed,

yet from this body I will see God.

Yes, I will see him for myself,

and I long for that moment.

Job 19:25-27

Prayers of hope for those who suffer

Don’t be afraid. I am with you.

Don’t tremble with fear.

I am your God.

I will make you strong,

as I protect you with my arm

and give you victories.

Isaiah 41:10

I pray that the Lord, who gives peace, will always bless you with peace.

2 Thessalonians 3:16a

Call the Aids Helpline on 0800 012 322 or your local church for advice.

*Scripture verses taken from the Contemporary English Version.

Published and distributed by the Bible Society of South Africa.

www.biblesociety.co.za

Bibles and audio Bibles are available on the BibleSA-app