Dear Aunt,
I am writing to you with a heavy heart. I attend a popular church here in Zimbabwe where the prophet claims to perform miracles. Recently he approached me and asked me to help him fake a miracle in order to attract more followers and offerings. He wants me to pretend that I was healed or that I witnessed a miracle happening. I want no part in deceiving people in this way but I am afraid of what may happen if I refuse.
On one hand, I want to expose this fake miracle and show that this well-known prophet is a fraud, but on the other hand I fear that doing so may cause conflict and divide the church. I am unsure of what to do and could use some wise advice from someone with more experience. What would you suggest I do in this difficult situation? Should I go along with the fake miracle to keep peace or should I speak up even if it causes trouble? I want to do the right thing but I don’t want to cause more harm than good.
Aunt, I hope you can provide me with some guidance that will ease my conscience and help me make the best choice in a way that upholds truth and integrity. Your wisdom would be very much appreciated during this confusing time. Please let me know what you think I should do.
Your troubled niece
SM
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Aunty Lisa responds:
My dear niece SM,
I’m so sorry to hear you’re in such a difficult situation. Faking miracles and deceiving people for personal gain is wrong, and you have good instincts to not want to be a part of that.
While confronting the prophet directly may be risky, I encourage you to tell the truth in a l0ving way if the opportunity arises. You can explain to him that you don’t feel right about falsely claiming a miracle happened. If he truly believes he is performing miracles, he may listen. However, be prepared for him to refuse and try to pressure you.
If you decide not to participate, stick firmly to your decision and do not waver. Tell him you want no part in misleading people. If he tries to coerce or threaten you, consider speaking with someone you trust in the church leadership for support. You may even need to share your concerns with the congregation if the situation demands it.
Most importantly, pray for wisdom and guidance. Ask God to give you the right words and courage to uphold truth and integrity in a way that minimizes harm. He will give you courage and the right words when you need them most.
Whatever you decide, know that I’m proud of you for wanting to do the right thing. Stay strong in your values and let goodness and truth be your guide. I’m praying for you and hoping for a peaceful resolution to this difficult situation.
Stay strong, my dear niece. You have more courage than you know. Call on it and trust that God will be by your side. You have my l0ve and support always.
Your loving aunt
Lisa
