Too religious?

[Ghostjunkie]

I know Jesus was not a big fan of overt religiosity. Some say the bible makes Hitchens look tame when it comes to anti-religiosity. We all know the pitfalls of those that become overly zealous to the point of perverting the spirit of the Law. I debated whether to post this here or in general theology, because I am interested both in the generic application of this question, but also as it pertains to dating.

A friend of mine recently found a good woman--at least she appears to be for him. I'm happy for him. He is a non-denom and she is a Catholic. I'm not sure how that works, but if it works it works. Cross denominational dating is a whole other topic that I have many questions about, but is perhaps outside the purview of this thread. My question is: can you be too religious?

I was talking to that friend about my own quest for love (such as it is) and mentioned that the right woman for me would have to be pretty religious. I find myself in a very religious state these days. Church 3 times a week, abstinence from nearly all worldly pleasures, only listen to gospel music, etc, etc, etc. Part of me says I want to hold out for a truly righteous woman, and yet another part of me is reminded that man is to be the spiritual leader of woman, and that I should lower my standards a bit. I don't know. It is a deep topic, with a lot to unpack, and I look forward to a deep discussion of it, God willing.

 

[ChicanaRose]

Part of me says I want to hold out for a truly righteous woman, and yet another part of me is reminded that man is to be the spiritual leader of woman, and that I should lower my standards a bit.

I think that's the right spirit: To be religious for yourself but not imposing the same standard on others.

 

[Not David]

Nothing wrong with being religious and if the woman you are looking is very religious she might help you to make you a better man or she might not. That's why you go and date.

 

[yeshuaslavejeff]

I don't know. It is a deep topic, with a lot to unpack, and I look forward to a deep discussion of it, God willing.

I don't think it is very deep to realize that for a believer following Jesus it is not even thought of to date someone who is with those who historically have been protesting against Protestants.

 

[lambofgod43985889]

in my case i don't trust catholics, i don't want to offend nobody, it's my conception

 

[yeshuaslavejeff]

There is not any group of men that Yahuweh says to trust - only trust the Father in Heaven, Daily relying on Him by Faith in Jesus Messiah Savior King of the Jews.

Whosoever puts trust in the flesh/ in men/ in mankind/ is cursed by Yahuweh (the Creator), as He Says In His Word...
5 This is what the LORD says: “Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind, who makes the flesh his strength and turns his heart from the LORD. 6He will be like a shrub in the desert; he will not see when prosperity comes. He will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives.…
Berean Study Bible ·
Cross References
2 Chronicles 16:12
In the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa became diseased in his feet, and it became increasingly severe. Yet even in his illness he did not seek the LORD, but only the physicians.

2 Chronicles 32:8
With him is only an arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles." So the people were strengthened by the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.

Psalm 118:8
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.

Psalm 146:3
Put not your trust in princes, in mortal man, who cannot save.

Isaiah 2:22
Put no more trust in man, who has only the breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he?

Isaiah 20:5
Those who made Cush their hope and Egypt their boast will be dismayed and ashamed.

Isaiah 30:1
Woe to the rebellious children, declares the LORD, to those who carry out a plan, but not Mine, who form an alliance, but against My will, heaping up sin upon sin.

 

[Ghostjunkie]

Can we steer this thread back on track, please. This is not a place to cast down denominations and proselytize to those that do.

 

[bèlla]

Perhaps a better way of viewing your statement is acknowledging your season of singleness and the opportunities for greater study, service, and fellowship. You would be hard pressed to maintain that schedule while married. Especially if children are in your future. You’d need time to rest and attend to responsibilities.

I’ve done the same in the past and enjoyed it. That was before I had my calling and understood what He sought. My days were spent much like yours and serving in the church. Now they’re consumed with the work He’s given.

I don’t consider myself very religious. But maybe I’m wrong. I built a lifestyle around my purpose and pour my time and resources in its fulfillment. And I’m moving overseas for school. In my mind that sounds quite normal. But perhaps it isn’t. I don’t know.

I broach this from a place of love. I love Him and I need to share my life with a man who feels the same. I need his support and guidance. I don’t want a wrestling match or be made to feel that I’m giving Him too much. That would hurt a lot.

If you want a God-centered life you have to choose a woman who desires the same. And she needs to walk that out much like you’re doing. She needn’t mimic your behavior. But there should be evidence she prioritizes Him. Just as you’ve done.

 

[yeshuaslavejeff]

I know Jesus was not a big fan of overt religiosity.

Sorry I do not remember the source, or even if it was from the Bible,
"Jesus hates religion, but He Loves people"......

 

[Miles]

It's hard to say. We don't know what's truly in somebody else's heart. All I can say for sure is that some behaviors and cultural practices are more agreeable to me than others.

 

[Not David]

Sorry I do not remember the source, or even if it was from the Bible,
"Jesus hates religion, but He Loves people"......

Nowhere since Christ the Lord established His Religion.

 

[yeshuaslavejeff]

Nowhere since Christ the Lord established His Religion.

Somewhere truly. Yes.
Sorry, different definition of "His" and of "Religion" than the 'quote' is about.

 

[quietpraiyze]

I know Jesus was not a big fan of overt religiosity. Some say the bible makes Hitchens look tame when it comes to anti-religiosity. We all know the pitfalls of those that become overly zealous to the point of perverting the spirit of the Law. I debated whether to post this here or in general theology, because I am interested both in the generic application of this question, but also as it pertains to dating.

A friend of mine recently found a good woman--at least she appears to be for him. I'm happy for him. He is a non-denom and she is a Catholic. I'm not sure how that works, but if it works it works. Cross denominational dating is a whole other topic that I have many questions about, but is perhaps outside the purview of this thread. My question is: can you be too religious?

I was talking to that friend about my own quest for love (such as it is) and mentioned that the right woman for me would have to be pretty religious. I find myself in a very religious state these days. Church 3 times a week, abstinence from nearly all worldly pleasures, only listen to gospel music, etc, etc, etc. Part of me says I want to hold out for a truly righteous woman, and yet another part of me is reminded that man is to be the spiritual leader of woman, and that I should lower my standards a bit. I don't know. It is a deep topic, with a lot to unpack, and I look forward to a deep discussion of it, God willing.

You stated:
"man is to be the spiritual leader of woman, and that I should lower my standards a bit". Can you tell me the Scriptures you're basing that on please and what you mean by that?

 

[yeshuaslavejeff]

You stated:
"man is to be the spiritual leader of woman, and that I should lower my standards a bit". Can you tell me the Scriptures you're basing that on please and what you mean by that?

Perhaps Matthew, John, Luke, Mark, Ephesians, Colossians.... to start with.
i.e. The Creator's Instructions.

 

[Sketcher]

I find myself in a very religious state these days. Church 3 times a week, abstinence from nearly all worldly pleasures, only listen to gospel music, etc, etc, etc.

All of that may be well and good, but how do you treat women that you're in a relationship with?

That's what I wonder about women who come across as very religious or very conservative. She has good values for most things. Fine. But enough women compartmentalize their expressed values from how they actually treat their men that I have to not just rubber-stamp someone just because she's single, attractive, and goes to a good church or votes my way. There's values, and then there's other values. Religiosity and social values at one level also have to penetrate down to the deeper, gut level that is more personal if they are going to really give all of the value that they advertise.

 

[VMaeLove]

In my opinion it is bad to lower your standard if you truly believe it realistic. That was the part you said that stands out to me.

If you are seeking the woman who is pasionate at following God like you no matter religion do not stop until you find her! Even if it seems hard some time.

I am not sure what too religious mean because spiritual need is diferent for every one i think?. but I believe it can cross a line if it is pushed on others or used for personal gain.

Do you pray about this?

 

[zxcv]

Less religion more relationship with God. The religious part makes you feel evil or underserving and that makes it hard to have a connection with God.

 

[quietpraiyze]

Perhaps Matthew, John, Luke, Mark, Ephesians, Colossians.... to start with.
i.e. The Creator's Instructions.

Excuse me but my question was specifically for the OP and it's a serious question. Please refrain from being snide and if you can't then avoid responding to my post.

 

[Ghostjunkie]

You stated:
"man is to be the spiritual leader of woman, and that I should lower my standards a bit". Can you tell me the Scriptures you're basing that on please and what you mean by that?

1 Corinthians 11:3, 1 Corinthians 14, as well as others. God created Eve to be Adam's helper. It sounds crass, anti-PC, and perhaps chauvinistic to suggest that women must be servile to men, but in regards to spiritual matters the bible is quite clear on this point. I could find more scripture, or quote lots of contemporary, secular things that support this. It is a hard pill to swallow, but feminist movements have subverted, if not downright perverted God's plan for us. I have heard accounts of old ladies that say the moment we all went wrong was when women got the vote, left the house, started working, and started trying to be equal to or greater than men in matters that were not meant for them. Society has programmed me to hate the idea that "women are to be barefoot and pregnant in the kitchen," but as crass as that sounds, we as a society were far more godly when that was the way of the land. I will have to pray on that one some more.

edit* I unintentionally lied when I said I had "met" these old ladies, edited for accuracy.

 

[yeshuaslavejeff]

Excuse me but my question was specifically for the OP and it's a serious question. Please refrain from being snide and if you can't then avoid responding to my post.

I won't excuse such an attitude,
and
neither will I accuse you. On this internet site all kinds are present.

You misread the post if you think I was at all 'snide'.... I gave you an honest reply, an honest answer as from Yahuweh and His Word. Complete with all the context/ chapters/ books that will help gain understanding, Yahuweh Willing, in your position or for your question.