Floppy Baby

Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you. Psalms 9:10 NLT

Baby Benjamin was born October 16th, 2018 and evened the score in our household: 3 boys and 3 girls. As exciting as his arrival was, there was a lot to be learned about myself in the process. When my son came into the world, he was limp. My heart sank as the nurses called the “Floppy Baby” code. People rushed into the room to work on him. My heart sank lower. Keisha and I had not been able to name our beautiful baby boy yet. And I immediately thought, “This is why we couldn’t name him”.

But then I snapped back and remembered that God was in charge. As much as I loved this little guy, God loved him more. So, I put aside my fear and began to speak to my son. At the sound of my voice, he perked up, regained his color, and began to breathe on rhythm. You see, the outcome of the story turning in my favor is not what makes this story great. It’s the presence of God in my time of fear. He did not abandon me. With everything going on within His immense creation, He was present with me at Tampa General. So, I encourage you today to seek the Father and trust that regardless of the circumstances, He will NEVER abandon you. In your anxious, confused, or fearful moments, stop and breathe in His presence. He is there for you.

Author: Patrick Wheeler

Pastor Patrick began his work in outreach ministry as a young boy, riding the church van with his father, transporting parishioners from local neighborhoods to church services. As a teen, alongside his parents, Patrick volunteered for various food distribution and tutoring services in at risk neighborhoods.

While obtaining his Bachelor's in Business Administration from Florida A&M University, Patrick answered the call to pastoral ministry at the age of 19. In 2020, He and his wife Keisha graduated together with their Master's in Biblical Counseling from Luther Rice College & Seminary. Over the course of the last 18 years, Patrick organized, spearheaded, and held positions in various churches and non-profit organizations in Alabama and Florida while also progressing in his career field of business and logistics.  

He lived as a doting and hard-working family man, a friend to all, and leader in the community. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was a light to all who knew him. His passion was in sharing the love and gospel of Jesus with anyone who would listen, and in helping those in need.  

Patrick passed away suddenly at the age of 39, going on to join Jesus sooner than anyone expected. His legacy lives on through his wife of 16 years, Keisha, and their seven children, family, friends, and community of faith.  

 This excerpt is taken from Patrick’s book, Good Morning, Men of God!