"This Is The Hardest Letter I've Ever Had To Read" | WRETCHED RADIO 

"God has used your death to pry my fingers off of this world, to make me long for heaven in a whole knew way." Wow❤.

I turn thirteen years old tomorrow. Stories like this remind me of how valuable our lives are, here on earth, which is something that young men like me forget - a lot. God can take us home whenever he chooses, and how we choose to spend our time is up to us. Will we literally "spend" our time doing worthless things that bring us temporary happiness, or will we use our time to harbor everlasting joy?

I paused the video and read the comments because I had a feeling. I will watch it when I've had some rest and can handle the heartache. My husband and I have lost two. One miscarriage at 7 weeks into the pregnancy. The other was our youngest. She would be 2 now. She was born very early. She was barely 2lbs when she was born. She only lived a week. She got an infection her little body couldn't fight off. This week we started sponsoring a little girl in the Philippines in her memory. One day I'll hold my little girl in my arms and God will wipe my tears away. I know He uses all things for His glory. Thanks for reading and because I miss him saying it... Go serve your King.

My heart goes out to this father. My 33 year old son ended his life on July 3rd 2020. I can relate with every single thing this man has said in his letter to his son. I have also brought things to his grave left cards and gifts and and written him letters and texted him almost word for word some of the things father has expressed to his son. . My son struggled with PTSD after serving our country as a Marine and did multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Yet even though he struggled with so much anxiety and other issues, he had been such a joy and a light to so many people in spite of his struggles. He was so loved and was a best friend to all three of my other children and many, many friends. It's a struggle and I don't think this mother will ever be able to get past the grief. But what I've learned is that with God's grace we can live with anything. He has provided so much peace and comfort to my heart. The realness of heaven and it's closeness was immediately apparent to me. I immediately knew my son was with the Lord. And when the dark thoughts and what ifs come, Jesus always comforts me and assures me that Brandon's salvation didn't fail or hinge on the last act of desperation in his life. Nor could I be comforted in all the good things he had done. Which I tried as my mind has sought desperately to reconcile all of this. In the end I always come back to Salvation is God's work. And he knows how to do it. And didn't work out how I had thought it would and how Brandon would be living his life. And yet I believe that every prayer I prayed for my son was not in vain. God wasn't surprised by his manner of death. Our heavenly father made provision through his son Jesus Christ who is the perfect sacrifice. And he is sovereign overall even depression and suicide. I haven't wrapped my head around all of this and there are many questions. But what I do know is God is faithful and loving and comforting and can be trusted. If you've read all the way down to the end of this comment thanks for taking the time. God bless you today and know that no matter what you may face he will always be there and never leave or forsake you. And he will strengthen you. And if you are struggling with depression or PTSD please please I implore you do not harm yourself. Please seek help.

Losing a son or daughter is the saddest thing that can happen to anyone. My eldest son went to be with the Lord 38 years ago aged 3 and a half months. I have never got over his loss but have learned to live with it. That said, I take enormous comfort in knowing that my Lord Jesus will personally give me him back one glorious day!

The way that people who so obviously know Christ are able to express real thoughts and feelings concerning suffering and loss and even death always amazes me. The grief is real, but so is the hope. It's not just some ubiquitous sentiment. It's full of truth and meaning. I feel so privileged to hear this. So sorry for this father's loss, and also grateful for his sharing of his perspective.

I didn’t loose a child, I lost a brother. He was dearer to me than my own life. Part of me went home with him. My “silly thing” used to be going to stores like Office Depot or Office Max. It was our favorite thing to do. We both loved pens, paper, notebooks. I don’t do that any more; it’s just not as much fun without him. He’s been gone 18 years! It’s amazing; it seems like yesterday. I still miss you, Donnie! I hope to see you soon!

From what little I know about Nick, I already know he was a better man at 20 that I've ever been at 45. Consider me inspired

This brought tears to my eyes. The Lord gives and takes away but blessed be the name of The Lord.

That was intense, my wife couldn't hear the video but saw I had tears. What a blessing to be able to talk about his son like that and to share that love with others.

I lost my boy 5yrs ago and the only thing that got ME THRU it is my lord and savor JESUS CHRIST and lots of prayer, meditation, bible study and good preaching from the likes of PAUL WASHER, john MCARTHUR and the like . Thank you lord

As a young man myself, thank you for sharing this, the Lord definitely brought this video to my suggestions. May God give Tim ever increasing streght to carry this cross.

I’m reading the comments but can’t watch yet. It’s been almost 2 1/2 years since I lost my 25 year old son. It feels like yesterday. My only desire in this life is the salvation of my other two children and grandchildren. Whatever time I have left on this earth I only want to serve and love my Lord. Too much wasted time in my past. So many regrets💔

I am often asked, "Why does God allow such terrible things to happen to us?" My standard answer is, "So we can relate to others in similar situations and tell how He has helped us through them ourselves." Tim's blog on the loss of his son is a prime example of this. Thank you for sharing this with us.

I lost my 14 year old last December, he would’ve turned 15 May 7th… I wait on the Lord who strengthens me every day, I know I’ll see my sweet Isaac one day.

Aww man I cried, and at least he knows his son was saved. He'll see him soon!

That was beautiful. It is so sad to bury a child.

What a hope we have in Heaven...thank you Jesus..

My wife and I lost our 1st Daughter in 1995, stillborn at 36 weeks. Sarah would be 27 this year. We have since had 4 more children who all know and love Jesus. Matt 19 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

While I was watching and closely listening . Todd, I could not help but think of my twin brother passing on Oct. 3rd 2021 at 0900. He is now in the presence of the Lord Indeed! I miss him like nothing else. I eager for the day when I am absent from my body and present with our Lord! The words I heard expresses my thoughts and feelings exactly how I feel about my brother and my Love I have for our Lord. Until then, I will continue to serve my King!

✝️💜 This is the definition of bitter-sweet ! The “parents-who-lost-a-child club” is a club I pray 🙏🏼 I will never join. My parents did (my big brother drowned at 13), and it shattered them! It’s unimaginable. Thanks, Tim, for honoring your son by sharing!

I know too many parents that have out lived their children. This made me cry for the baby I lost, (and all his life that We were denied, the trials and the triumphs..I don't know what he would gave liked to do, what would have faceniated him, if he liked dogs, climbing trees, cakes or pie teasing his sisters.....all that discovery lost to me...) as I am one too,and for the parents that have lost their children. Such axliss here on Earth is so devistating. You lay your hopes in the grave along with that precious body. I can think of no deeper pain than this loss. Lord grant comfort to this man, and those who suffer as he does.

He really loved his son so much. Heartbreaking. I pray for them. 🙏🏼

The loss of potential is so real when the young die. My father died 2 months ago. It was the culmination of his life's pursuit. To say I miss him is redundant. To say I was full of joy at his passing is maybe not the norm but having lived a full life dedicated to the love of God and family he had given all. I don't want my boys to die before me but if they go to God before me always mindful. Then I will shout about God's wonderful faithfulness.

It's been almost 11 years since my 15-year-old son was struck by a speeding vehicle and killed on our former church's campus. It was devastating to our family then, and the anguish has continued to cut deep every day afterwards. I had repented and put my hope and faith in Christ years before, but I was pierced to my heart with my son's death, and I've struggled to deal with the agony ever since. Grief is a monster I try to keep at bay.

Nick was the smartest and kindest Canadian boy I’ve ever known.

I’ve been following Mr. Challies’ blog for a few years now and feel extremely privileged to hear his private, poignant, and profound musing’s, memories, and grief. He is so courageous to open up his soul this way. His entire family is astonishing.

Hearing this reminds me of the book “The Problem of Suffering: A Father’s Hope” by Gregory P. Schultz about a pastor’s struggle with the death of his son. We all struggle walking the path Christ walked for us in this valley of the shadow of death. Our hope then is anchored in the promise that His goodness and mercy will pursue us as He prepares a place for believers to dwell with Him forever together. This journey is not without wrestling or struggle, but we face each day knowing Christ is with us and in our worst of times…we grieve as those with hope in Christ alone and we carry each other’s burdens together comforted by His Word and not our words. The beautiful Easter hymn comes to mind “I know that my Redeemer lives…”

This is very transparent! The older we get the more we have to experience loss. The way we process the grief is important. He lost his son at a very young age and his grieving is difficult but he meets it head on. Grieving is the price we pay for loving. It goes beyond words however he expresses his grief in such a loving way that its transparent.

I couldn’t finish. I’ll try again later. So sad, I pray that that family will find true peace

Such inspiration.❤️❤️❤️. Thank you for sharing.

That was beautiful, Todd! Thanks for sharing. It broke my heart, yet gave me great joy. And make me long for heaven even more.😭🤗

I lost my mother this past year… it’s still a bit surreal… to Christ be glorified even in our pain and sorrow on this side of eternity

Todd, thank you ever so much for sharing this, and thank you for opening the comments so that we can partake communally in this father’s loving letter to his son. This is what is meant to love one another. Him through us, we hold each other up through sorrows, and we multiply joys. ❤️

My condolences to the family and friends of your dear loved one. Jesus bless you and yours in this time of grieving.

Beautiful words from a dad. Rest in peace brother, you will be with your dad and all of us in Christ in eternal peace ❤️

I may only be 25, but I've seen both my parents go to be with the Lord. My mother went to be with Jesus in August of 2008 while my father joined her in May of 2019, from cancer and liver failure respectively. I can't speak to the pain of losing a child, but losing a parent (let alone both) fairly early in life is a sorrow that can't be explained. I've asked the Lord in desire and while seeking comfort about their salvation and was comforted knowing they're each with Him now. The very thought of finally meeting Christ and having Him take me by the shoulders (as a father would to a son) to turn around and see my parents there, fully healed of the illnesses that claimed their bodies and in better health than I ever saw, fills me with inexpressible joy.

Thanks for leaving this comment section open Todd, and thank you for sharing Tim’s blog, such a sad loss and at the same time you wouldn’t remove the glory he will have in heaven 🙏🏻 God bless you all ❤️🙏🏻

Thank you for sharing this.😞 Thank those who shared uplifting responses. To those who who had no grace to share... Well, bless your heart.

It reminds me of that Toby Mac song, “21 years.” 💛 It’s so tragic that parents lose their children.

Thank you , Todd. Thanks for sharing this with the world. I never have heard of Tim before. What a beautiful example of being with himself, God and others.

Thank you for touching my heart...I can't imagine anything more difficult than losing a child.

That was absolutely beautiful and heart wrenching at the same time. The pride and love through the pain is such a bittersweet balance. Knowing with certainty that he is with our Lord is our best, and only real, consolation as the family presses on. Thanks for reading this Todd. What a shame RU-vid inserts beer commercials in between the most heartfelt message a person can share.

Thank you for sharing this, I don't think there's anyone who wouldn't benefit from hearing this message. Also thank you for opening up comments on this channel. While I understand the concerns with what people may say in them, I also love seeing the dialogue from fellow Christ followers. As a family of Christ speaking to each other is so very important and I think you have a great community here. If you ever come up to preach in MN again I'll try and catch ya :)

God blessed me and is helping me overcome sin all the more after I hearing the “ A radically normal life of the Christian “ sermon, praise God and thanks Him for that message, God bless mr challies and family.

Very heart breaking. So moving

I am not a dad,my heart breaks,tears form. Thank God for such a great love.

My 11 year old daughter passed away from brain cancer in 2019 and like this father I knew very little about Heaven. I had been told all my life that the Bible speaks very little about Heaven, but I have come to find that not to be true at all. I was determined to know more about the place where my savior and daughter reside and spent the last 2+ years studying what scripture says and it says a lot. My suggestion to anyone who wants to know more about Heaven is to read "Heaven" by Randy Alcorn. Mr. Alcorn devoted himself to providing us with scripturally sound insight into all that the Bible teaches on Heaven and it was pure joy to read. He provides sound doctrinal guidance on the matters that are often overlooked, but right in your face about Heaven. He is goes into great detail explaining what scripture actually means, and not what he thinks it means. He is honest when it comes to areas that scripture doesn't speak clearly on and will tell you his viewpoint based on his opinion in those matters, which are not wild guesses, but well thought out opinions based on the character and nature of God as revealed in scripture, but also reiterates that it is still an opinion and may not be fact. It is an outstanding book and will open your eyes to truths often overlooked. I recommend this to anyone who has lost a Christian family member or friend or for those who want to be more well versed on the subject of Heaven. Its amazing and I thank God for bringing Mr. Alcorns book into my life when I needed it the most.

Wow may God help that man through his sorrow

May God bless the parents as they grieve in their own way.

Thank you for sharing that. Glory to God always.

Oh my goodness no words except powerful. My eyes are leaking

Though nothing will ease the sorrow of Nick’s passing for those left behind (for now), this letter reveals a little of Gods desire to call him to be with Him. Blessings to all affected by this tragedy.

I've always wanted to be able to connect on your videos. And now i can. Yay!

I think it would be much harder if they knew their son was in Hell.

Thank you 😊

Wow! Now I’m crying!

Thank you Sir.

I think many Christians are deceived into thinking that just because they are saved, they are going to live, long and prosperous lives, and somehow get special protection from God. Instances like these are timely reminders that God is sovereign and can take us at anytime he pleases, so cherish the time you have here with your loved ones while you have it and use it wisely/ for the benefit of the Kingdom.

Thank you. May YAHWEH be with the family.

Grieve with those who grieve and I am one with your family God bless you

Proof that the godly can be weak and yet bless the Lord.

Lost my daughter and I begged God to trade us places...... God bless you Rev. Tim Chailles

And he had testimony that he walked faithfully with God, and God took him home. Let the testimony of this young man stand as that like Enoc.

Nothing found in his search history. We lost the best of the best. John the Baptist type moved on and we still have Paul and Peter. But the loss of the best always leaves a void. Tears and more tears. God bless his family.

These words are so beautiful. God often takes horrible tragedy and uses it for incredible glory.

This reminds me of how Enoch living a life professing godliness was called up in his youth to be with God "or caught up" As Jesus was Caught up and away to the Unich . Bless this mans family and each and every soul thats in pain for the loss of a family member or someone close, Please have faith in God when these times come. Please share the Gospel with people because it makes times like these so much easier....Knowing that you'll be with them once again one day after awhile. With a sincere heartache typing this I pray that each and every one that reads this goes out and starts talking about Christ and what he's done for you , in your life so that other's may see. God bless each and every one of you with Love From East TN

Well I was doing okay until I got to the coffee part . So sad. I'm going to go hug my kids now.

I remember weeping when I heard. How terrible life is down here.

I have just wept long and hard for the first time in a while. O the grace of God which turns even our most awful experiences into ways to minister to one another and proclaim His faithfulness. For those whose hope is Christ alone - what a wonder that ‘we’ll all gather home in the morning’ with Our Lord and His people.

I mourn and rejoice with you.

I have 3 wonderful little girls 5, 3, 1. It's impossible to love them too much because my love for them is based on Christ's love for me. I draw from a bottomless well that is overflowing. My wife is a woman of virtue and together we do our best to lead our girls in Godliness. I would die a million painful deaths in their place, and I would if possible even forfeit my salvation to know that they had theirs, but ultimately thier fates are in God's hands. What Tim is suffering through is unimaginable. I am so sorry for this terrible loss, yet happy for heaven's gain. I pray that if such were to befall my family, I could be as eternity focused as Tim. I pray he suffers well.

I sometimes use this illustration. A plant out grows its pot, you transplant it it goes into shock but we know what's best for that plant. We mourn.But our LORD is simply replanting. 🙏

this makes me happy and sad

Sad. Beautiful just beautiful Love ♥️ from Australia 🇦🇺

May his grieve and pain be relieved in Jesus

Please pray for my two youngest children to be brought home to me safely soon and for their abusers to be STOPPED and prosecuted and unable to hurt them again in the Lord Jesus Christs holy name.

Love you all.

I worked as a caregiver for a Christian man with ALS. And I helped him write his own obit That was a humbling experience

Joy in death. Wow. Praise God 😭🙏

I cried…😢

Tough, tough, tough.

Can you give me a link, Todd? I mean to the article you are referencing, I went to the website and it's kind of hard to find.

please God dont let this happen to me. i only have one son and i cant survive losing him. it worries me constantly and i beg Jesus to protect him. its incredibly hard to even think about losing him he is all i have.

"My yoke is easy and my burden is light." I am with you always. We are always with everyone. We are not bodies but spirit as God created us. Innocent. Forgiving everyone lets us reconnect with God and all others. Matthew 12:7 If you had known what these words mean, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the innocent. Life is not wretched. Forgive.

🙏

I lost my 15 year old son. He was my only child.

The Father wanted to take him home. Lord comfort the family 👪 🙏 until we meet again... In Christ's name...

4:38 Praise God.

First time I’ve seen comments

This awful tragedy makes me so sad for John Piper! He will never get to write a letter like this!😕

"You ran to your short race well"

😢😢😢

I went there and even put that title in their search it says not found. 😢

first time here, a link to the ltter, or how ro spell Tim's last name would.. for i have no idea who this man is..

Can you PLEASE!!!! post that latter??

😢✝️🙏❤️

This reminds me of a friend who was a Lieutenant Commander in the US NAVY working his MOS as a ship surgical nurse. Six months out at sea and six months land duty. His 5 year old daughter cried at his departure at sea and her words while sobbing out of control....please don't leave mommy and me daddy... IT HAUNTED HIM AND TORE AT HIS SPIRIT EVERY DAY OF THE SIX MONTHS...AT SEA 19 years later divorced for 14 years not able to see his daughter still Tortures himself in his civilian hospital work place With a photo of a sailor going off to sea...the wee girl saying and sobbing...please don't leave mommy and me daddy... 10 years of Navy life 5 years at see took its toll. BUT AT SOME POINT... LIFE MUST RETURN ANEW AND THIS IS HOW GOD WANTS IT....BUT...THE DIFFERENCE WILL NOT HAPPEN WITHOUT GOD....please TRUST THE LORD... Surrender to Him COMPLETELY Proverbs 📖 chapter 3 verse 5 thru 7.... Yes this not the same as death of a loved one you may say BUT HIS ACTIONS are still wrong and is not mentally or spiritually healthy...it lacks the trust in our Lord and knowledge of His Word 📖 and a lifestyle dedicated to the LORD. In death or relationships ended WE MUST ALWAYs go to the LORD... Psalms 📜 51 verses 10 thru 13 🙏 ✨💫📜🌎📖💫✨ Create in me a clean heart, O God ; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence ; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation ; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors Thy ways ; and sinners shall be converted unto thee. REMEMBER PROVERBS 📜 CHAPTER 21 VS 30 ✨💫📜🌎📖💫✨ There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD. Take your cares to the LORD IN PRAYER 🙏 PLEASE ....He wants the BEST FOR YOU... Read JEREMIAH 📜 CHAPTER 29 VERSES 11 THRU 13 🙏📖🙏 Re-Read 🧐🙄 please PSALMS 📜 51 VERSES 10 THRU 13 🙏🕯️📖🕯️🙏

I knew I should have skipped this one. I miss my oldest son. He is still breathing, but after going to a four year, now judges me as a racist bully. Not for how I raised him, or what he saw.....Because I was, and alway will be a cop.

It's raining on my face a little. That's odd.