Coping with the disadvantages of Christianity

[MercyandFaith]

It seems that in certain senses, Christianity puts us at a disadvantage during our short temporary time on Earth.

For instance, there's no doubt that evolution sounds much more scientifically "right" (even though it's inaccurate,) and so creationists and Christians are thus forced to defend creationism with a short hand of cards (in the public opinion) to begin with.


Also, for unbelievers, it is easier to manage finances, because if someone comes up to them and asks for money, they can simply say no. But a Christian? Scripture says to "give to all who ask of you" (Luke 6:30), meaning that saying no is much less of an option.


How do you guys cope with these disadvantages? I am, honestly, at my wit's end.

 

[LordPleaseHelpMe]

Why would you want to do against what the one who died for you wanted. The one who created you wanted.
The one that loves you more than anything!
The Devil is tricking you to go to your "wit's end"
Try to find other type of fun/adventure if that bothers you too!
You think it may suck being refrained from doing this.
However it will suck MUCH MORE when you do this "fun",
abandon god and end up in hell thinking "Why didn't i listen to him!"

Joy, Fun, Pleasure, Satisfaction, these are all things that give us peace in our heart, mind and soul. If you're happy, you're less likely to commit sin and be an a-hole to others.

Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

 

[ConfuseddotCom]

Christians are not forced to defend creationism, many are TEs and subscribe to evolution

 

[hedrick]

1) Christianity isn't against evolution. Some Christians are, based on a misunderstanding of what the Bible is.

2) I'm not aware of people being harmed financially by giving to those in need.

 

[miss-a]

First of all, and I realize you probably know this, but just in case someone reading doesn't. We don't have to give everything to everyone. I learned this the hard way when I was a new Christian. There's a verse in the Bible where Paul says to give out of what we have, not what we don't have. So, if I'm exhausted and someone needs me for something, I don't have to give them my time and energy, because in that moment I'm out of time and energy and God would have supplied me with it if I was indeed the person that person needed. He's supplied someone else, and if I give what I don't have to give, I block that person from being able to give wht they do have to the situation. AND, I burn myself out and the Lord needs to put me on the bench until I'm recovered. Yes, that's exactly what I did, and I now just getting back out there. Burn out stinks and the Lord does not require it of us.

The same goes for finances. I thought I had to give to everyone who asked or I was a terd. Well here's what I've learned, some of the people asking are not in need. They think their in need, but really what they need is to cancel their cell phone, get a $10 a month track phone, cancel cable tv and stop eating in restaurants, like I've quit doing. I found I was going out of my way to help people who were driving better cars than I do, and not stewarding their money well.

I could go on and on with this, but here's the bottom line with giving of ourselves and the money we steward. We give prayerfully. We don't have to pray about a tithe because it's written in the Word. But all the other things, we pray. If all we feel is guilt and condemnation, well, then we're not hearling the Lord. So we ask a trusted pastor or mature Christian friend who can speak Jesus' grace into our situation. If they can't speak grace and just repeat the condemnation the enemy is vomiting on us, we find someone else who does know the love and grace of Jesus.

The Gospel is good news. I once read that we spend far too much time acting as though we are employees of God, rather than children of God. We fear if we really do the God's-kid thing we'll become irresponsible, but really we become free. And when we're free, we can lead the way to help others live in freedom. We know where we are supposed be and what we are suited to do. The Spirit flows freely in us and through us. The Gospel is good new.

As for evolution, seriously, poop on it. Only engage with others about if the Spirit leads you to take someone aside and help move them toward truth. In the end, the truth is still the truth even if they don't believe it. The arguments don't help anyone, and they occupy you when the Lord would have you resting up for other good works He has for you.

So all that to say, yeah, there's some persecution, no denying that. But there's also condemnation, and we don't have to take it. "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." "A bruised reed He will not crush." Most, if not all of us, are brusied little reeds who need to sit on Jesus lap and tell Him all about. We are His kids and we need time alone with Him. "Mary has chosen the better thing and it will not be taken from her."

Rest in Him, friend, and later you'll come out of the gate, swords blazing!

Sending prayers and also a private message,
a

 

[jannikitty]

My suggestion is that you re-read scriptures on a daily basis and especially take some special time to read the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. See the whole story rather than segments of it and then see how it applies to your life especially the parable Jesus tells about the sower which can be found in Matthew 13:3-9; Mark 4:2-9; and Luke 8:4-8.

You may have to re-think what your understanding of what it really means to be a Christian and gain a broader and fuller understanding of that.

And begin to list all of the advantages to being a Christian instead of what you deem to be disadvantages.

Granted in a worldly sense there doesn't seem to be an appeal. In a heavenly sense there is much more than anything the world can offer. But you have to find that treasure in the field or the pearl of great price yourself. Begin by asking God for an increase in the gift of faith.

peace and blessings.

 

[The Fire Rises]

I may be in the minority here but personally I don't believe in any way that Christians are at some sort of severe disadvantage when it comes to the evolution debate. It would help if you specified exactly what you mean by evolution though, the term is tossed around so much these days for different things, it's hard to distinguish sometimes.

Evolution covers three basic areas; the origin of the universe, the origin of first life, and the origin of new life-forms. Respectively, these are called cosmic evolution, chemical evolution, and biological evolution. In a broad sense, "evolution" means development but more specifically, it has come to mean the theory of common ancestry. It is the belief that all living things evolved by natural processes from earlier and more simple forms of life.

Theistic evolution posits a God who got the process going (by creating matter and/or first life) and has guided it. Naturalistic evolution (what most atheists subscribe to) believes the entire process is "natural", including the origin of the universe and first life by spontaneous generation, aka random chance.

I certainly won't go into depth into each one, although if you'd like to learn more about each category I'd be happy to PM you. But I really don't want to ruin your thread by sparking a debate so I'll stop here

 

[NewUser777]

Also, for unbelievers, it is easier to manage finances, because if someone comes up to them and asks for money, they can simply say no. But a Christian? Scripture says to "give to all who ask of you" (Luke 6:30), meaning that saying no is much less of an option.

Anyone who has a job is unknowingly giving to all who ask. Every payday I am voluntarily or not, giving to the poor, providing social services, providing health care, providing social security to people I don't even know. Will I get something from "them" in return? At this point, it's very doubtful.

 

[TheyCallMeDavid]

It seems that in certain senses, Christianity puts us at a disadvantage during our short temporary time on Earth.

For instance, there's no doubt that evolution sounds much more scientifically "right" (even though it's inaccurate,) and so creationists and Christians are thus forced to defend creationism with a short hand of cards (in the public opinion) to begin with.


Also, for unbelievers, it is easier to manage finances, because if someone comes up to them and asks for money, they can simply say no. But a Christian? Scripture says to "give to all who ask of you" (Luke 6:30), meaning that saying no is much less of an option.


How do you guys cope with these disadvantages? I am, honestly, at my wit's end.

Hi. I regret to say that i see some misconceptions regarding your summation of the Christian Walk. Ill address them :

1. I see no disadvantages to being a committed Christian during this short prelude on Earth ; I cant think of anything better than to realize and live out the truth of why im here, to know the joy of my Maker loving me and having proved it in Christ, and the genuine hopefilled expectation of residing with the infinite self sustaining all powerful Creator forever without end. In fact, it allows me to wink at physical death because that is simply a graduation day to eternal retirement and unimaginable things to come .

2. Darwinian Evolution is complete psuedo science from a SCIENTIFIC standpoint on many fronts. It is so strongly perpetuated today because the supernatural must never be entertained even though it is incredibly ludicrous to think 'natural' physical causes produced non- physical entities as reason, rationale, mind, feelings, abstract thoughts, personality , consciousness, et al... The actual scientific evidence we all have does not lead to Darwinian Evolution in the least, but to an Architect, Design Engineer, Sustainer of incomprehensible magnitude . Now...Darwinian Evolution may be the popular choice amongst the secular scientific community, but its based on limiting what Scientists are willing to consider for causes and origins ; such things a peer pressure from the scientific community at large and Government Grants coupled with their own personal apriori-philosophy bias (the personal implications of a theistic Creators existence and interaction in creation) are justifications for their continued prejudice . For the Christian, his unshakable faith based on good reason and rationale in light of the evidence for a Creator, is not detered regardless of unproven speculations and outdated Theories from the 19th century.

3. Its just as easy or hard for Christians to handle their money as it is for non Believers ; theres many non believers that are willing to give to charities and humanitarian efforts out of concern , financially, albiet not at the same level or zeal that Christians typically give of themselves. Further, the promise that Christians have from God, is, they will be blessed both in this life and from stored treasure in heaven if they surrender themselves in various ways in the name and person of Christ. For perhaps 98% of all dedicated Christians giving the standard 10% of finances in a tithe, it isnt even missed in the least .

3.a. The scripture of 'give to all who ask' must be balanced with all of scripture including the one that says :'Do not throw your pearls before swine' meaning be discerning who you give of yourself to . God doesnt expect his Followers to give to ravenous wolves in sheeps clothing who are dishonest, unethical, immoral, or who are against the cause for Christ.

4. The way you deal with predominant culture philosophies and established ways of the World , is not to be jealous of those who practice them / to be glad your not entangled in them anymore / to be happy about having the real truth regarding the universes origin, our origins, and the purpose and meaning to life God desires you to walk in...and to come against anything that that tries to set itself up against the knowledge and person of Christ/God , per 2 Cor. 10:5 . In short, keep your head to the plow and keep on keeping on toward the final prize that awaits all true Christians whove enjoyed devoting their (short/long) earthly life to the King of the Universe. The ways of God are not burdensome but bring blessing, protection, joy, real peace, real hope .. unlike what the world offers, so choose Gods ways. Regards.

 

[ezeric]

If its a disadvantage you got the wrong christianity (if I can put it that way).
btw: this does NOT mean you are not a saint or not saved etc..

Because, although we all go through tough times, tests if you will, this abundant life and incredible revelation and joy (because you know you can't fail) blows away any 'crap' the world could give.

They left all to follow HIM and they did that not because they were stupid, but they saw the value of the pearl of great price...a GOD with us (Emmanuel) and really not just with us but IN us and never to leave us, no matter what kind of 'bad day/smelly day' we have.

All advantage.

100% forgiven.

Hope in this life and the next.

Peace inside and miracles outside!
Prayers answered or more revelation given.

Stop judging by your own perception/vision and instead listen on the inside to the SPIRIT who 'knows all things'.

Abundant life is the benchmark, and its all yours - where is the disadvantage in that?

-eric

 

[Michael Hawk]

Hi brother I will try to help.

1. I believe in the bible and that God created the earth. Genesis was written by Moses with visions from God, so 6 days could mean any amount of time. We were formed from the dust of the earth, which sounds a lot like evolution to me. We know that matter cannot be created or destroyed, but had to be created somehow, so I believe that God created it.

2. Lending money is very hard, I usually lend people a few hundred that I can spare. If they ask for more I ask them to kindly repay the first loan. If they demand it, then I know they are using me and not telling me the truth. Some friends never repay then stop talking to me, I lose some money but know they were not truly friends.

 

[Inkachu]

I see no "disadvantage" of Christianity. It has challenges, but I'm not disadvantaged in any way.

 

[TheyCallMeDavid]

I see no "disadvantage" of Christianity. It has challenges, but I'm not disadvantaged in any way.

I recently had an atheist lady tell me that im 'wasting my life and depriving myself' by being a Christian ! I guess she figures that missing out on illicit sex to my hearts content , acquiring std's , not swearing/not using Gods name in vain , and being too moral....leaves One unfilfilled and in deprivation to whatever you feel like doing or saying upon impulse . I kindly responded that if Christ IS real, then you have lost everything now havent you , and the few short years on Earth were really all for nothing.

 

[theophilus40]

For instance, there's no doubt that evolution sounds much more scientifically "right" (even though it's inaccurate,) and so creationists and Christians are thus forced to defend creationism with a short hand of cards (in the public opinion) to begin with.

When the subject of evolution comes up why not go on the offensive and ask them what evidence there is to support it? Point out that the claims made by evolutionists involve things that supposedly happened in the past and can't be observed or tested.

Here are some sites that can give you some helpful information on this subject:

Answers in Genesis - Creation, Evolution, Christian Apologetics


Science Against Evolution Official Home Page


Evolutionary Truth by Piltdown Superman


WorldwideFlood.com


The Creation Research Society

 

[ConfuseddotCom]

When the subject of evolution comes up why not go on the offensive and ask them what evidence there is to support it? Point out that the claims made by evolutionists involve things that supposedly happened in the past and can't be observed or tested.

Here are some sites that can give you some helpful information on this subject:

Answers in Genesis - Creation, Evolution, Christian Apologetics


Science Against Evolution Official Home Page


Evolutionary Truth by Piltdown Superman


WorldwideFlood.com


The Creation Research Society

Emmm, you cannot prove Creationism either by the same logic you use.

 

[seeingeyes]

It seems that in certain senses, Christianity puts us at a disadvantage during our short temporary time on Earth.

For instance, there's no doubt that evolution sounds much more scientifically "right" (even though it's inaccurate,) and so creationists and Christians are thus forced to defend creationism with a short hand of cards (in the public opinion) to begin with.

'Creationism' is not the default view of Christianity. That's only a 'given' in certain circles. I was raised with that view but I'm largely non-dogmatic, now. It seems silly to be arguing about C-14, when there's no much pain in the world that could be cured with a little kindness from the kingdom.

Christ's work is not harmed if evolution is true. In fact, there is a parallel between the work God does in man and the evolution of species (that's another thread, I suppose).

At any rate, I feel that we should be speaking to our audience where ever they stand, rather than dragging them to stand where we want them before preaching Christ. That's what Jesus did. That's what Paul did. That's good enough for me.

Also, for unbelievers, it is easier to manage finances, because if someone comes up to them and asks for money, they can simply say no. But a Christian? Scripture says to "give to all who ask of you" (Luke 6:30), meaning that saying no is much less of an option.


How do you guys cope with these disadvantages? I am, honestly, at my wit's end.

Sounds like it's easier to handle finances as a Christian. If you give away everything, you would no longer have finances to worry about.

The trick here is to look at your heart, and ask yourself what you are holding on to this money for. Be honest with yourself and with your Father in heaven.

 

[Dunban]

It seems that in certain senses, Christianity puts us at a disadvantage during our short temporary time on Earth.

For instance, there's no doubt that evolution sounds much more scientifically "right" (even though it's inaccurate,) and so creationists and Christians are thus forced to defend creationism with a short hand of cards (in the public opinion) to begin with.


Also, for unbelievers, it is easier to manage finances, because if someone comes up to them and asks for money, they can simply say no. But a Christian? Scripture says to "give to all who ask of you" (Luke 6:30), meaning that saying no is much less of an option.


How do you guys cope with these disadvantages? I am, honestly, at my wit's end.

It's tough, being in an indefensible position.

I'm a Christian and I don't blindly hand out money to those who don't deserve it. Jesus wasn't telling people to be careless with their funds. Use your head.

As far as evolution goes, if you actually did your research, maybe you would find that there is something to all the hubbabub.

 

[TheyCallMeDavid]

..................

As far as evolution goes, if you actually did your research, maybe you would find that there is something to all the hubbabub.

These Evolutionists have already done the exhaustive research for us :

" It is therefore a MATTER OF FAITH on the part of the biologist that
biogenesis (evolution) did occur and he can choose whatever method of
biogenesis happens to suit him personally ; the evidence for what did
happen is not available" --- Evolutionist Prof. G.A. Kerkut of the
University of Southampton. Source : Implications of Evolution. London.
Pergamon Press, 1960, page 150.



" The more one studies paleontology, the more certain one becomes that
evolution is based on FAITH ALONE" -- Evolutionist Prof. T.L. Moor .
Origins ? The Banner of Truth Trust, 1988 page 22.



" We Palenontologists have said that the history of life supports (the
story of gradual adaptive change) , all the while really knowing that it
does not" -- Dr. Niles Eldredge. Darwin on Trial. Regnery Gateway,
1991, page 59.


" The record of reckless speculation of human origins is so astonishing
that it is legitimate to ask whether much science is yet to be found in
this field at all" -- Evolutionist Dr. Solly Zuckerman. Darwin on
Trial. 1991. page 82.

From an article in Science Digest Special---

" Scientists who utterly reject Evolution may be one of our fastest
growing controversial minorities ... Many of the scientists supporting
this posiiton hold impressive credentials in science" . -- Educators
Against Darwin. winter 1979, page 94



" I believe that one day the Darwinnian myth will be ranked the
greatest deciet in the history of science "--- Prof. Soren Lovtrup,
Embriologist. Darwinism : The Refutation of a Myth. 1987. page 422.

" The more i examine the Universe and the details of its architecture,
the more evidence i find that the Universe in some sense must have known
we were coming"--- Prof. Freeman Dyson, Physicist from Princeton Univ.
'Disturbing the Universe' . 1979. page 250.



" The more man is imbued with the ordered regularity of all events, the
firmer becomes his conviction that there is no room left by the side of
this ordered regularity for causes of a different nature (than a Creator)"
-- Albert Einstein. His LIfe and Times. page 286.

And finally, the bottom line from an "agnostic" Astronomer (and my
favorite) ----

" For the scientist who has lived by his faith in the power of reason,
the story ends like a bad dream. He has scaled the mountains of
ignorance, he is about to conquer the highest peak and as he pulls
himself over the final rock, he is greeted by a band of Theologians who
have been sitting there for centuries reading Genesis 1:1 : In the
Beginning God created the Heavens and the Earth" --- agnostic Prof. Robert
Jastrow founder of Nasa's Goddard Institute. His book, 'God and the
Astronomers. page 116.

 

[ConfuseddotCom]

Biased quotes by creationist scientists.

 

[TheyCallMeDavid]

Biased quotes by creationist scientists.

Supportable actual quotes by Evolutionary Scientists in a rare moment of honesty.