Hi everyone

ArtBlinked · Apr 23, 2015

I'm new here. My life feels like it's all over the place right now and it's been this way for a couple years now.

I guess I'm just looking for a strong Christian community to talk to. I have some friends that I've been praying would get saved for over 5 years now.

Sometimes I feel like they're worse off now then they were when I first met them...it kills me on the inside. I just want them to receive Gods love for them but they keep pulling further and further away from Him. I can't just give up but I don't see myself doing anything to help guide them. I try to live as Christ and they do recognize that I am a "good" person but that's all they see it as. They don't recognize that anything and everything good I do is because of God in my life.

I don't have any close Christians in my life besides my parents. My sister used to be Christian and my role model but after leaving the home and finding a set of friends who led her away from Christ she is now atheist and homosexual. She has a vicious hatred for God and Christianity that scares me. I see my friends slowly becoming this way and I can't take it.

I'm not sure what to do with my life. I'm comfortable and unhappy. Nothing is really challenging me in life and sometimes I'm tempted to do something completely random like go to Israel and travel (I live in AZ). I've never been outside the US and everyone tells me this is a terrible idea except for one person who I'm not sure I should be taking advice from. I'm also scared of losing my only Christian support in my life being my parents. But I need to do something besides pray. Prayer is good and vital but prayer without action is something I've found through experience to be useless. Or at least it's not everything God wants me to be doing right now.

I talk to God but not as much anymore. I still love Him I just feel like I'm failing Him. I ask for leading and guidance but I must be doing something wrong because after several years of this I still feel lost. I'm not going to walk away from Him, not in a million years by His grace. But I just need help if someone has advice for how to figure out what I should be doing with my life.

paul1149 · Apr 23, 2015

Hi AB,

Do you have any fellowship support? Finding a place in the Body where the Lord blesses you is often the best way to realize what you should be doing.

Not long ago I made a little discovery. In the parable of the minas, the nobleman tells his servants:

Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten minas, and said to them, ‘Engage in business until I come.’ -Luke 19:13

To my surprise, the word for "engage" there is Pragmateuomai - from which we get "pragmatic". The nobleman knew his servants had to function in a hostile land where huge victories would probably be scarce, so he told them to find whatever practical ways they could to be profitable.

Maybe there are some small, down-to-earth things you can do to test the waters, to break out of the mold a little. It may not have to be radical. Radical may sometimes be good, but I'd try a more measured approach first, looking for confirmation before going further.

God bless,
Paul

drybomber · Apr 23, 2015

ArtBlinked said:
I'm new here. My life feels like it's all over the place right now and it's been this way for a couple years now.

I guess I'm just looking for a strong Christian community to talk to. I have some friends that I've been praying would get saved for over 5 years now.

Sometimes I feel like they're worse off now then they were when I first met them...it kills me on the inside. I just want them to receive Gods love for them but they keep pulling further and further away from Him. I can't just give up but I don't see myself doing anything to help guide them. I try to live as Christ and they do recognize that I am a "good" person but that's all they see it as. They don't recognize that anything and everything good I do is because of God in my life.

I don't have any close Christians in my life besides my parents. My sister used to be Christian and my role model but after leaving the home and finding a set of friends who led her away from Christ she is now atheist and homosexual. She has a vicious hatred for God and Christianity that scares me. I see my friends slowly becoming this way and I can't take it.

I'm not sure what to do with my life. I'm comfortable and unhappy. Nothing is really challenging me in life and sometimes I'm tempted to do something completely random like go to Israel and travel (I live in AZ). I've never been outside the US and everyone tells me this is a terrible idea except for one person who I'm not sure I should be taking advice from. I'm also scared of losing my only Christian support in my life being my parents. But I need to do something besides pray. Prayer is good and vital but prayer without action is something I've found through experience to be useless. Or at least it's not everything God wants me to be doing right now.

I talk to God but not as much anymore. I still love Him I just feel like I'm failing Him. I ask for leading and guidance but I must be doing something wrong because after several years of this I still feel lost. I'm not going to walk away from Him, not in a million years by His grace. But I just need help if someone has advice for how to figure out what I should be doing with my life.

You need to be patient. You shouldn't be surprised by the fact that your friends are worse off. A lot of Christians these days have a totally unbiblical expectation once becoming Christian. They think everything will be fine, all their friends will become Christians just like you and it will all be great!

Nope.

In-fact, everything you explained in this post affirms what the bible predicts what will happen. Remember now, we have free will, so if they reject Jesus Christ (before they die, that is) then that is on them, you warned them, it's their choice what to do with the warning. You should find comfort in the fact that you have a relationship with the God of this universe, and don't let the persecution get to you. It should upset you that your friends are not right with God at the moment, but how do you know they might still change their mind (repent)? It is not our job to convert people, that's God's job! It's our job to plant seeds and spread the word, but God does the increase!

Don't be discouraged my friend. I have family members and friends that are still not saved, don't let them cause you to stumble or fall. Rejoice.. and remember that bad company corrupts good character (1st Corinthians 15:33). Are you hanging with these people, engaging in the things they do that are of the world? Maybe there are some areas where you might fear men more then you fear God? Or that something is holding you back? Examine yourself. Whatever is preventing you from standing firm int the faith, deal with this today!

ArtBlinked · Apr 23, 2015

paul1149 said:
Hi AB,

Do you have any fellowship support? Finding a place in the Body where the Lord blesses you is often the best way to realize what you should be doing.

Not long ago I made a little discovery. In the parable of the minas, the nobleman tells his servants:

Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten minas, and said to them, Engage in business until I come. -Luke 19:13

To my surprise, the word for "engage" there is Pragmateuomai - from which we get "pragmatic". The nobleman knew his servants had to function in a hostile land where huge victories would probably be scarce, so he told them to find whatever practical ways they could to be profitable.

Maybe there are some small, down-to-earth things you can do to test the waters, to break out of the mold a little. It may not have to be radical. Radical may sometimes be good, but I'd try a more measured approach first, looking for confirmation before going further.

God bless,
Paul

Thank you Paul for this. And I do not have any fellowship support at the moment besides parents which is another reason why I don't want to leave home and lose that support like my sister did.

I know that the Holy Spirit lives in us as a community rather than individuals. But for whatever reason I've always had a hard time connecting with other Christians. I can't figure out why, we should get along we both have the most important thing agreed upon -Christ! But Christian friends have only ever been passing friends in my life. Maybe there's some sin I'm doing in my life that I don't know that causes making real friends with other Christians so difficult?

I have a rather strange view of things I guess. I only want to listen to Christian music. R rated movies disgust me a lot of the times because there's always too much of something (sex, gore, language) that I don't want to see or hear or handle. I don't use the Lords name in vain. I haven't committed fornication and I plan to save my first kiss for my wedding day.

I imagine a lot of people won't believe the last one....everyone seems to think it's impossible to go through your teenage years an not have sex but I did it and I have 3 non-believing friends who I know did as well. So it can't be that uncommon.

But I haven't met any Christians who would agree with me on all these things (yes on the last one in that participation in fornication is a sin). Am I being silly by following this standard? Or believing that they should as well? It seems easier with a non-Christian because (I'm not sure if this is the right thing to do) but my standards for them are rather low. I don't expect them to do anything or behave in any special way. It's my job to be kind and loving to them as a representative of Christ and I don't expect much in return.

And the parable of the minas is actually something that has bothered me for several years. I feel like the servant who has foolishly buried her talents and it feels terrible. But maybe starting small is a good first step. I could make another effort to find a Church. I was involved in a small home Church with my family + another family in the hopes of making it grow. It never did though. Ever since it died my parents stopped searching and sadly I did as well.

I guess I need to learn how to get along with other Christians even though we disagree on things. Because that's the only option here really. Throughout the time of the small home church I learned a lot of things about Jesus and the feasts and festivals practiced by the Jewish people. I believe that those feasts and festivals are going to be practiced forever, in heaven with God. And if it's going to be happening forever I want to start doing them here on Earth as well. It would make me more like Jesus which is ultimately what I want.

The problem is that if my first standards made finding Christian friends difficult this one narrows it even more. How many people my age want these things? I basically want a really close friend(s) and support in these area I think. Maybe I'm asking too much though?

p.s. Sorry this is so long!

drybomber · Apr 23, 2015

ArtBlinked said:
Thank you Paul for this. And I do not have any fellowship support at the moment besides parents which is another reason why I don't want to leave home and lose that support like my sister did.

I know that the Holy Spirit lives in us as a community rather than individuals. But for whatever reason I've always had a hard time connecting with other Christians. I can't figure out why, we should get along we both have the most important thing agreed upon -Christ! But Christian friends have only ever been passing friends in my life. Maybe there's some sin I'm doing in my life that I don't know that causes making real friends with other Christians so difficult?

I have a rather strange view of things I guess. I only want to listen to Christian music. R rated movies disgust me a lot of the times because there's always too much of something (sex, gore, language) that I don't want to see or hear or handle. I don't use the Lords name in vain. I haven't committed fornication and I plan to save my first kiss for my wedding day.

I imagine a lot of people won't believe the last one....everyone seems to think it's impossible to go through your teenage years an not have sex but I did it and I have 3 non-believing friends who I know did as well. So it can't be that uncommon.

But I haven't met any Christians who would agree with me on all these things (yes on the last one in that participation in fornication is a sin). Am I being silly by following this standard? Or believing that they should as well? It seems easier with a non-Christian because (I'm not sure if this is the right thing to do) but my standards for them are rather low. I don't expect them to do anything or behave in any special way. It's my job to be kind and loving to them as a representative of Christ and I don't expect much in return.

And the parable of the minas is actually something that has bothered me for several years. I feel like the servant who has foolishly buried her talents and it feels terrible. But maybe starting small is a good first step. I could make another effort to find a Church. I was involved in a small home Church with my family + another family in the hopes of making it grow. It never did though. Ever since it died my parents stopped searching and sadly I did as well.

I guess I need to learn how to get along with other Christians even though we disagree on things. Because that's the only option here really. Throughout the time of the small home church I learned a lot of things about Jesus and the feasts and festivals practiced by the Jewish people. I believe that those feasts and festivals are going to be practiced forever, in heaven with God. And if it's going to be happening forever I want to start doing them here on Earth as well. It would make me more like Jesus which is ultimately what I want.

The problem is that if my first standards made finding Christian friends difficult this one narrows it even more. How many people my age want these things? I basically want a really close friend(s) and support in these area I think. Maybe I'm asking too much though?

p.s. Sorry this is so long!

I can relate to this and I want you to know I feel your pain. You asked if you were being silly.

I'm going to keep it very simple for you. Make sure you know the bible better then anything else in this world. The bible clearly states that fornication is a sin, so no you are not silly. I was shocked since becoming a Christian when I found other Christians still living in sin. It made me question not only their faith but my own... if these guys aren't keeping God's commandments, how can I?

Does that sound familiar? Does it feel like you're alone and that nobody agrees with you? Please realize something, this is a good sign. What concerns me is how you're reacting to it, as if you're doing something wrong. The bible could not be more clear on what is sin and what isn't. Learn to appreciate God's word more and not to worry about what people think about you. You're not silly, you're not weird, you're on the narrow path that leads to life! Please find joy in this!! I understand being alone can be one of the worst feelings at times, but don't let your feelings carry you away. This could be a trial you're going through right now, as I said be patient, stay strong in the faith and fight the good fight!

I strongly suggest you go on youtube and search "Francis Chan". His preaching videos are very moving and inspirational.

ArtBlinked · Apr 23, 2015

drybomber said:
You need to be patient. You shouldn't be surprised by the fact that your friends are worse off. A lot of Christians these days have a totally unbiblical expectation once becoming Christian. They think everything will be fine, all their friends will become Christians just like you and it will all be great!

Nope.

In-fact, everything you explained in this post affirms what the bible predicts what will happen. Remember now, we have free will, so if they reject Jesus Christ (before they die, that is) then that is on them, you warned them, it's their choice what to do with the warning. You should find comfort in the fact that you have a relationship with the God of this universe, and don't let the persecution get to you. It should upset you that your friends are not right with God at the moment, but how do you know they might still change their mind (repent)? It is not our job to convert people, that's God's job! It's our job to plant seeds and spread the word, but God does the increase!

Don't be discouraged my friend. I have family members and friends that are still not saved, don't let them cause you to stumble or fall. Rejoice.. and remember that bad company corrupts good character (1st Corinthians 15:33). Are you hanging with these people, engaging in the things they do that are of the world? Maybe there are some areas where you might fear men more then you fear God? Or that something is holding you back? Examine yourself. Whatever is preventing you from standing firm int the faith, deal with this today!

Ahh, this is too true. I know for a fact that there are some areas in which I fear man more than God and it's something that has bothered me for a long time. How do I change though? I've asked God to change me, to help me change myself, to guide me and strengthen me but if there are changes they feel so small or slow to come that I don't see them.

I suppose there is a little bit of change, I'm opening up to my friends a bit more. But I feel like it's not always in the best of ways. We've actually fought and....worked through it which is a blessing from God in this one friends life because she has never experienced what working through a fight is like. She and I are closer because of it.

But there is sin in my life that I hid before but it's slipping into view. Small things but things that still count against me nonetheless. I need to behave blamelessly but that doesn't happen because my anger comes to the surface sometimes. I'll speak ill of someone to one of them and realize later is wasn't the right thing to do. Also 2 other things that I can think of off the top of my head that I've struggled with for a while.

And about bad company corrupting good character I feel like I've seen this happen to 2 people in my life. It's been terrible both times because I felt so helpless each time. Once with my sister and another time with a short lived Christian friend in high school who became a Muslim. I didn't do everything I should have to stop her and with my sister I honestly have no idea what I could have done.

But as these friends slowly become more worldly I feel as though I've been pulled into 1 thing I otherwise wouldn't have gotten into -rp (roll playing). It's something for an entirely different thread though I'm sure.

For most other things though I'm fighting it tooth and nail but the more I fight the bigger wedge that comes between us. I don't watch adult swim, hate it in fact, but it feels like that's all they ever watch. It frustrates me and sometimes I get so mad I just want to walk away and never come back. I don't though and so I'm stuck watching another episode of family guy.....at least they know where I stand though. And to their credit they try and not watch it around me as much. The only movies they're interested are horror which I can't watch. Same with music, I feel as though they would never listen to Christian music or radio. There's just so many things that separate us and as I refuse their lifestyles we grow further apart. Which is better than me changing for them...I know this. I just wish they would see Gods love because I don't want to walk away. I feel as though I've walked away from too many people in my life and I don't want to add these to the list.

Overall though I know I need to remove all sin from my life to the best of my ability with Gods help. I'm trying but maybe not as hard as I could be. Thank you for this reminder

ArtBlinked · Apr 23, 2015

drybomber said:
I can relate to this and I want you to know I feel your pain. You asked if you were being silly.

I'm going to keep it very simple for you. Make sure you know the bible better then anything else in this world. The bible clearly states that fornication is a sin, so no you are not silly. I was shocked since becoming a Christian when I found other Christians still living in sin. It made me question not only their faith but my own... if these guys aren't keeping God's commandments, how can I?

Does that sound familiar? Does it feel like you're alone and that nobody agrees with you? Please realize something, this is a good sign. What concerns me is how you're reacting to it, as if you're doing something wrong. The bible could not be more clear on what is sin and what isn't. Learn to appreciate God's word more and not to worry about what people think about you. You're not silly, you're not weird, you're on the narrow path that leads to life! Please find joy in this!! I understand being alone can be one of the worst feelings at times, but don't let your feelings carry you away. This could be a trial you're going through right now, as I said be patient, stay strong in the faith and fight the good fight!

I strongly suggest you go on youtube and search "Francis Chan". His preaching videos are very moving and inspirational.

Thank you DB! This has been very encouraging! I have actually heard of Francis Chan before and listened to some of his videos and now I'm going to definitely watch some more.

About the Bible, this is a very good reminder as well. I went to awanas when I was little and memorized every one of their verses in that little book. I can still remember how easily bible verses popped into my head at the needed times. Sadly, that doesn't happen anymore. I really want something in my life to help urge me to memorize scripture again though. And a group of people to help hold me responsible in this.

And I'm glad I'm not alone in all this! About two years ago I would cry a lot because of this feeling of loneliness. I've learned since to not let myself get carried away by emotions because ultimately it doesn't do anything good by dwelling on things like that. I still feel as though that I need to find some Christian friends who can support me and I them though. I just need to get back on the horse and continue looking. Seek and you shall find -I need to be patient, stay strong in the faith and fight the good fight as you say.

Also, it's awesome to find someone who's so encouraging here! I love it!

drybomber · Apr 23, 2015

Overall though I know I need to remove all sin from my life to the best of my ability with Gods help. I'm trying but maybe not as hard as I could be. Thank you for this reminder

This is just speaking from past experience but please take what I'm about to say very seriously. You said being stuck watching another episode of family guy and it just seems to me (correct me if I'm wrong) that these friends have a strong negative influence on you. You see, your spirit is saying "Get away from this filth" but your flesh is saying "ah it's no big deal just some mindless entertainment". It's not a sin to put up with watching family guy, but what I'm saying is, it could be the reason you're feeling this way.

Ephesians 5:3-6

3But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 4Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 5For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
6Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. 7Be not ye therefore partakers with them.

Pay close attention to that last verse and tell me what you think.

drybomber · Apr 23, 2015

ArtBlinked said:
Thank you DB! This has been very encouraging! I have actually heard of Francis Chan before and listened to some of his videos and now I'm going to definitely watch some more.

About the Bible, this is a very good reminder as well. I went to awanas when I was little and memorized every one of their verses in that little book. I can still remember how easily bible verses popped into my head at the needed times. Sadly, that doesn't happen anymore. I really want something in my life to help urge me to memorize scripture again though. And a group of people to help hold me responsible in this.

And I'm glad I'm not alone in all this! About two years ago I would cry a lot because of this feeling of loneliness. I've learned since to not let myself get carried away by emotions because ultimately it doesn't do anything good by dwelling on things like that. I still feel as though that I need to find some Christian friends who can support me and I them though. I just need to get back on the horse and continue looking. Seek and you shall find -I need to be patient, stay strong in the faith and fight the good fight as you say.

Also, it's awesome to find someone who's so encouraging here! I love it!

No problem! I've only been on these forums for a little over a month now and I love to give advice to people, especially people who seem to be going through the same things I just went through myself! It can be so hard to forget that God is always with us, but remember the word patience. Meditate on that word!

ArtBlinked · Apr 24, 2015

drybomber said:
This is just speaking from past experience but please take what I'm about to say very seriously. You said being stuck watching another episode of family guy and it just seems to me (correct me if I'm wrong) that these friends have a strong negative influence on you. You see, your spirit is saying "Get away from this filth" but your flesh is saying "ah it's no big deal just some mindless entertainment". It's not a sin to put up with watching family guy, but what I'm saying is, it could be the reason you're feeling this way.

Ephesians 5:3-6

But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.[/U]
Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them.

Pay close attention to that verse and tell me what you think.

I didn't even see it like that. When I sit there with the show going on on the side, I'm partaking in that terrible tv show. I always knew it was bad and felt terrible afterwards but I didn't do anything about it besides express some dislike for it to them. I would oftentimes ask God to help me deal with it afterwards and ask Him that it wouldn't influence me but what I should be doing is leaving the room when they turn it on. Either leave the room or leave the place entirely but I shouldn't be around it anymore. Especially when I know it is filled with all those things -foolish talk, filthiness, and so many other things we shouldn't have any part of. And not just that tv show but all the others on adult swim as well because to me they're all the same.

Now, here's another thing I need to ask. I know Christians who watch these things willingly and find enjoyment, and it bothers me. My ex (my first and only ex) watched it as well as several others that are similar to it. He was a proclaimed Christian but the problems I found in him I found in so many Christians. My friend from a couple years ago was/is(?) a Christian and I went to go see a movie with her and 2 people she knew. I found out during the film it was rated R (I can only assume now for sexual content) and it was then I discovered I hated rated R films. I said something about it afterward and the level of awkwardness was terrible.

Then again a year or so later I'm in a Christian club. These people are by far the most Godly I've met but for fun after all the girls who were actively going went to go see Paranormal Activity 3 (or 4 or something?). It just struck me as very sad that they wanted to watch that movie because I'm pretty sure it wasn't going to do anything good for them and it's not anything I would ever be interested in watching just based on trailers I've seen.

Are other people convicted of these things being wrong as well? Do they just not listen? What God considers sin can't possibly change from person to person. And there must be people out there who are convicted and have soft enough hearts to change their behavior to something God wants.

paul1149 · Apr 24, 2015

Hi AB,

We do have to be patient with people, but no, I don't think you're asking too much. Real fellowship is the way it's supposed to be. Unfortunately, the church in the West often is not the way it's supposed to be. The velvet glove has done its work of compromise. There's a powerful series on YouTube about the underground church in China. Though persecuted, it flourished both spiritually and numerically. I think it's called The Cross in China

I wonder if there was a bad church experience that set your family on its course. It wouldn't be the first time. Having been there myself, I would say it's crucial to understand that the Lord does not leave you when a church falls apart. He has proven Himself faithful to me over and over, and He uses even the wilderness for His beneficent purposes. Be as faithful as you can right where you are, and then in faith look for different ways to move closer to all that He wants for you. Maybe you can try out various churches. There's power in corporate worship. Jesus' definition of church was as inclusive as possible: the barest minimum plurality of two or more, gathered in His name. This could take place right in your home.

It's also worth noting that a careful reading of the New Testament shows that even the earliest church had some very serious problems. So some of this simply comes with the territory and is inescapable, and God uses it to teach us to rely on Him rather than man.

About the minas. These parables are meant to motivate us. There is a place for fear as a motivation, but when fear begins to eat at us it becomes malignant, and that is not God's intention for us at all. We can do nothing without Him anyway, so we need to draw near to Him and trust Him even more when we are attacked or have doubts, while we also make sure we are doing what we can to be in His will. And ultimately, love is the goal and is a better motivator than fear.

Blessings,
Paul

drybomber · Apr 24, 2015

ArtBlinked said:
I didn't even see it like that. When I sit there with the show going on on the side, I'm partaking in that terrible tv show. I always knew it was bad and felt terrible afterwards but I didn't do anything about it besides express some dislike for it to them. I would oftentimes ask God to help me deal with it afterwards and ask Him that it wouldn't influence me but what I should be doing is leaving the room when they turn it on. Either leave the room or leave the place entirely but I shouldn't be around it anymore. Especially when I know it is filled with all those things -foolish talk, filthiness, and so many other things we shouldn't have any part of. And not just that tv show but all the others on adult swim as well because to me they're all the same.

I used to watch those shows, used to listen to ungodly music and I have to tell you as a brother in Christ, as soon as you get all that junk out of your life, you really start to notice changes. Unfortunately in today's world, it's hard to find true Christians who actually live by the bible. Remember anyone can label them-self as Christian, but it's the way they live that proves what they really are. The false teaching that is out there is getting to the point where sometimes you can't even go on a Christian forum without wondering what if these people aren't even Christians? Like I said keep it simple

know the bible better then anything else. Filter everything back through the bible, if it agrees with it keep listening/watching, if it doesn't agree with it, get as far away from it as you can!

Now, here's another thing I need to ask. I know Christians who watch these things willingly and find enjoyment, and it bothers me. My ex (my first and only ex) watched it as well as several others that are similar to it. He was a proclaimed Christian but the problems I found in him I found in so many Christians. My friend from a couple years ago was/is(?) a Christian and I went to go see a movie with her and 2 people she knew. I found out during the film it was rated R (I can only assume now for sexual content) and it was then I discovered I hated rated R films. I said something about it afterward and the level of awkwardness was terrible.

It bothers me too. I am sorry that you had that experience with your ex, but in the long run it is good for you and also him because maybe he will come to his senses eventually. My parents love to watch television and they always tell me it's for entertainment but they don't realize what's actually going on. There's no commandment in the bible that says "thou shall not have fun" however, it's what we're doing that could be wrong even if it seems harmless. What are we doing when we watch family guy, south park, or whatever? We're polluting our minds with ungodliness and filth and while we may not realize the effects, trust me it's there! For example, some people think getting high on weed is harmless, but actually if you think about it (I've done it a few times before when I wasn't a Christian) you're allowing the demonic realm to enter into your mind. So in a way, when we take pleasure in watching south park, family guy, or whatever for pleasure purposes, that's literally what's going on. Obviously you agree that you shouldn't be watching that, so that's good but I think removing it once and for all is something that will not only benefit you but will benefit others in the long run!

Then again a year or so later I'm in a Christian club. These people are by far the most Godly I've met but for fun after all the girls who were actively going went to go see Paranormal Activity 3 (or 4 or something?). It just struck me as very sad that they wanted to watch that movie because I'm pretty sure it wasn't going to do anything good for them and it's not anything I would ever be interested in watching just based on trailers I've seen.

Are other people convicted of these things being wrong as well? Do they just not listen? What God considers sin can't possibly change from person to person. And there must be people out there who are convicted and have soft enough hearts to change their behavior to something God wants.

You're absolutely right on that, there are no gray areas when it comes to what is sin or what isn't! People like to do the buffet approach with the bible, they like to pick and choose what fits their lifestyle and when they come across something that they don't like, they ignore it or twist it into something else. This is the root of false teaching..

Now I will say this, paranormal activity is obviously not a Christian-related movie, however it seems to suggest the reality of demons, so at least it's not like they were watching the movie hangover, which glorifies sin and makes the act of getting hammered a joke rather then something that should be taken seriously. I hope you get where I'm coming from. Sometimes the last thing you think is going on is actually what is going on. The fact that you posted this on the forums is a good sign, because I too struggled with these problems. It becomes a non-issue when you use the bible for your source of everything and when I mean everything, I mean literally everything!

sunshineforJesus · Apr 24, 2015

Hi and welcome to C F

parsley · May 12, 2015

It sounds like you have worked very hard to do the right things, but lost sight of the power of God in what you do. I've noticed that when I don't have people praying for/with me, there's a certain amount of invisible support I'm lacking -- as though God is trying to teach me that things work the way He told us to operate.

It doesn't take 200 people to pray for you. Find one that you can pray with, even if it's a friend online.

People often teach that God only works through congregations, but that's not what scriptures say. Jesus sent people out two by two, to heal and deliver -- and some of them had only been following him for a short time! One time He sent 70 people out, and told them to split up.

So yes, God moves with individuals.

He spoke to Moses in the desert.
He guided Abraham.
He gave Noah a mission, when he was surrounded by corrupt people.

Many of the prophets worked independently, and some even were given messages to deliver to convict their leaders to repent! So God will surely meet you where you are.

parsley · May 12, 2015

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I'm not sure what to do with my life. I'm comfortable and unhappy. Nothing is really challenging me in life and sometimes I'm tempted to do something completely random like go to Israel and travel (I live in AZ).

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