Gary Valenciano shares matured perspective on faith: 'I was once a Christian who was honeymooning with the Lord'

For Gary Valenciano, faith is a maturing process that moves away from harsh judgment toward sharing the truth in a way that doesn't cause unnecessary hurt.

At Friday’s media conference for his upcoming inspirational podcast, “Unshaken,” Gary was asked about his thoughts on trending showbiz topics involving Alvin Aragon, who has gone viral for his public statements about faith.

Mr. Pure Energy acknowledged that they share the same faith but said he does not know the details of Alvin’s personal walk with God.

“I don't know what kind of walk Alvin has had with the Lord that he talks about. And I know he's talking about the same God I'm talking about. We both quote from the same Bible,” Gary said.

He then spoke about personal conviction and obedience, especially when one feels called to do something difficult.

“But I will let people know that when or if you pray about something, and if God speaks to you and says, do this, and it's totally different and opposite from what you thought he would call you to do, my challenge is who will you follow? Will you follow your conscience that, wow, people will say this, or will you follow the voice that you know you heard clear enough to follow, even if it would cost so much, including being bashed by so many people,” he said.

The singer-songwriter also reflected on his own growth in faith, admitting that his approach has changed over time.

“As to how you carry out things, that's something that you learn through time. I was once a Christian who was honeymooning with the Lord when I first came to know Him, and I was like that. ‘If you don't do that, you're going to go to hell. It’s written in the word of God. This is what's going to happen to you.’ But it took me time to learn that the truth, even if it hurts, you don't have to make it hurt more because it hurts enough already,” he said.

Despite the controversy surrounding current discussions, Gary said he sees a positive outcome.

“The best thing about it is that people are opening up about their faith, even those who are offended. So, I don't know how God is orchestrating everything to bring people together, but He is, and people are listening and watching. So, it's great,” he said.

When asked what he would tell Alvin if he were to guest on “Unshaken,” Gary said he would rather listen first before making any statements.

“I'd like to hear him first before I say anything because there are so many things that can come out. There are so many things being posted, maybe not in its entirety. And when you leave out certain things, those are the things that actually might really matter. I'm not one who will judge him, you know. He is as unperfect as I am. And I'm just thankful that he's keeping himself grounded on what he believes in. Maybe someday, if we do talk, I'd like to find out, ‘Dude, what's going on? What's going on with you and God?’”

Alvin has been drawing criticism online after his remarks on religion and homosexuality, which involved Izzy Trazona’s transgender daughter, Sofia.

Meanwhile, “Unshaken” is set to roll out episodes mid-April on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

The podcast will explore themes of perseverance, spiritual insight, leadership, mental health, and legacy. —Carby Rose Basina/JCB, GMA Integrated News