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Confused

DukeJohn

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I can't really explain my confusion. it's like. i saw a tv show (Super Humans) And i saw this Chinese guy who could control his Chi (Life Energy) and turn it into heat in his hands. and i heard it was called Qigong. and i wanted to try it. but like most things i hear about i research on the internet. and i read that Chinese people are mostly Buddhist or something and they believe in idolatry and i sat there in shock and asked god to forgive me for wanting to even pursue that. but i didn't know that they called upon demons for there strength.
and also. i get this really bad image in my head like. (i am not an Atheist) like i picture myself as an atheist and it scares me and i keep getting these repetitive feelings that i should give up. but i don't wanna give up. and i pray to got that he never give's up on me for doing the things i do, repeatedly after i ask for forgiveness, what i mean by that is i do something then sincerely repent for doing it. but then it gets so tempting that i just fall back into it. and i don't want to. i just really need to stop doing (those things) but i can't help it its to tempting, i pray to god that he will help me stop falling into temptation. but i don't want to do this anymore. i have the will to change but im only 13 and i have so much time to figure out my life. i feel like my life is being rushed so bad. i need advice please help me.....

we usually go to church every Sunday, but it being winter here and so much snow its hard to get there without getting stuck.... but its been at least 5 months since we have gone to church. and i rarely read my bible. which im ashamed of. and i think that is why im having these feelings. because im drifting into worldly things. and i don't know how to not drift into it. please help. any advice is Greatly appreciated.
 

Autumnleaf

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Leonfrost

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I owe my health to Qigong. I have an autoimmune condition. The medicine for said condition is WAY out of my price range. I can keep the condition under control with Qigong. There's nothing demonic about it at all. It's just a science that hasn't been adequately explored in the West.

The heat's an interesting little trick, but that's just scratching the surface. Martial artists can use it to overload the nerves in peoples' limbs, causing temporary numbness. SCIENCE, not magic. Let me reiterate that again.

Also, you can use it to cure a lot of chronic/autoimmune conditions in yourself and others. Again, because of science. Not magic.

Edit: Autumnleaf, you're so right about that! The transmutation of sexual energy is an ages-old method in every culture, including Christian ones, that allowed celibates to take all that pent-up energy and use it to fuel other endeavors. Very nice to see that process mentioned around here - last time I brought it up, I got yelled at for talking about something that looked demonic.
 
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thatforumguy77

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When in doubt, just abstain. When you don't know the morality of an action, it's better not to do something (and it turns out it isn't sinful), than to do something (and it turns out it is.)

We must also remember that our God has already mastered the elemental forces of this world, so do not put your trust on these things, on eastern disciplines that have the appearance of wisdom, but instead, focus on God whom is the master of these things. Do not be led astray, but in all things acknowledge God, not your own capability or the capability of this world's natural forces.
Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. (Colossians 2:8-10)
If you are certain however that Qigong is not mystical and is actually science, then go forth. But I am still in doubt. Qigong sounds very similar to the "disciplines" that Paul was warning the people from Colossi - so use wisdom and discernment when using these. Always use as a guide if an action can lead you closer to God in faith, or if it can lead you away. Through this, you will know if a certain action can be blessed by God.

As to your struggles with temptation, there's several ways to tackle that. But I may need some more information in order to help. Like, can you think of any reason why you would imagine yourself as an atheist? What is the triggering thought or event that did this? An atheist friend? A doubt about your faith that hasn't been addressed? A recent television show that made you over-imaginative? If you can't pinpoint a triggering event, then it may be spiritual in nature, and you may be under attack by a spirit of doubt.

If this is the case, combat it with the full armor of God. Only thus equipped can you fight it off.
Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. (Ephesians 6:10-18)
God bless!
 
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Leonfrost

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ForumGuy: In some extremely literal Biblical interpretations, people wonder if Christ perhaps used Qigong as the modality of His healings. Specifically, in Mark 5:30, it is said, 'Jesus felt energy leave His body, and He turned to the crowd and said, "Who touched my robes?"' That "energy," in these interpretations, is chi. And when I do my healings for others (nothing special, just easing autoimmune conditions, chronic aches/pains, etc.), I would certainly describe it as feeling energy going out from my hands.
 
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~Anastasia~

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I think TFG has given some good advice.

I would add, it sounds like you're researching these things online. To check things out is good, but as I learned when I was young in the faith, there is a LOT of false and dangerous info out there too, and some of it is very clever and set up with the purpose of leading you astray.

It's a good idea to develop resources you trust, and since you can't submit them to your pastor or teacher at church, it's probably a good thing that you've come here to get counsel. As you can already see, you will likely get different answers. But the good thing about a forum is that someone will usually step up and call attention if something is against Scripture.
 
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DukeJohn

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[/QUOTE]can you think of any reason why you would imagine yourself as an atheist? What is the triggering thought or event that did this? An atheist friend?[/QUOTE]

Yes my oldest brother does not believe in god. only that he exists, i guess. he never really talks about it and when i asked him if he believes in god he said "why would you even ask that" and i "im just wondering" and he said "Just mind your own business" and it kinda hurt me because he was really nice when he was like 13-14 but now he's mean and cranky and drinks and stuff. and my younger brother (10) is not a christian either. but he doesn't really understand yet.. so he is kinda confused. but thank you for you're answer it helps a lot, maybe that is why i was picturing myself as one. but its involuntary the thought just pops in my head randomly, any idea how to stop it from happening? .

Thank you all for your answers
 
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DukeJohn

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When in doubt, just abstain. When you don't know the morality of an action, it's better not to do something (and it turns out it isn't sinful), than to do something (and it turns out it is.)

We must also remember that our God has already mastered the elemental forces of this world, so do not put your trust on these things, on eastern disciplines that have the appearance of wisdom, but instead, focus on God whom is the master of these things. Do not be led astray, but in all things acknowledge God, not your own capability or the capability of this world's natural forces.
Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. (Colossians 2:8-10)
If you are certain however that Qigong is not mystical and is actually science, then go forth. But I am still in doubt. Qigong sounds very similar to the "disciplines" that Paul was warning the people from Colossi - so use wisdom and discernment when using these. Always use as a guide if an action can lead you closer to God in faith, or if it can lead you away. Through this, you will know if a certain action can be blessed by God.

As to your struggles with temptation, there's several ways to tackle that. But I may need some more information in order to help. Like, can you think of any reason why you would imagine yourself as an atheist? What is the triggering thought or event that did this? An atheist friend? A doubt about your faith that hasn't been addressed? A recent television show that made you over-imaginative? If you can't pinpoint a triggering event, then it may be spiritual in nature, and you may be under attack by a spirit of doubt.

If this is the case, combat it with the full armor of God. Only thus equipped can you fight it off.
Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. (Ephesians 6:10-18)
God bless!

"can you think of any reason why you would imagine yourself as an atheist? What is the triggering thought or event that did this? An atheist friend?"

Yes my oldest brother does not believe in god. only that he exists, i guess. he never really talks about it and when i asked him if he believes in god he said "why would you even ask that" and i "im just wondering" and he said "Just mind your own business" and it kinda hurt me because he was really nice when he was like 13-14 but now he's mean and cranky and drinks and stuff. and my younger brother (10) is not a christian either. but he doesn't really understand yet.. so he is kinda confused. but thank you for you're answer it helps a lot, maybe that is why i was picturing myself as one. but its involuntary the thought just pops in my head randomly, any idea how to stop it from happening? .

Thank you all for your answers
 
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~Anastasia~

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but its involuntary the thought just pops in my head randomly, any idea how to stop it from happening? .

Well, it can be hard to stop it from happening. There are some things you can try though.

First, let me say that when it DOES happen, stop the thought. Interrupt it, don't allow it to continue. The Bible tells us to take all our thoughts captive

2 Cor 10
4The weapons with which we fight are not human weapons, but are mighty for God in overthrowing strong fortresses. 5For we overthrow arrogant 'reckonings,' and every stronghold that towers high in defiance of the knowledge of God, and we carry off every thought as if into slavery—into subjection to Christ;

So we capture those thoughts in our mind. The best way to come against it is with Scripture that shows it is a lie. If you are always attacked in a certain area, or in several areas, memorize the Scripture that tells the truth instead. When you get a thought popping into your head, stop it, and speak the Scripture against it.

Others may have good suggestions on other things to do, but this is what I usually like to do. And if you are somewhere you can't be repeating it out loud as often as you need to, you can just speak it in your mind. But I find spoken aloud to feel more powerful, if you can.

As far as to how to keep it from happening? This isn't foolproof, but it often works to listen to Christian music or hymns that praise God, sing praises to Him, or speak your praises. Thanking God or praising (recognizing) His attributes are good things. It has often worked for me that it seems to change the whole atmosphere, and strengthens me at the same time.

But I think the best thing you can do is to discipline your mind to not allow thoughts to continue when they DO come in. You might even become sensitive to the point that you recognize when they are coming, and can stop them before they really get into your conscious (rather like putting up your shield to deflect an arrow that's been shot at you). Having control of what's going on in your own mind, and what you allow in, is always good.

You may very likely find the attacks lessen if they are not successful, but that's never guaranteed.
 
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CounselorForChrist

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Seems like a pretty dangerous topic that can hurt a christian. Chi, Qigong...etc. Alot of people try to find reasons why its ok. But I say if its ok then why would you need to come up with reasons its ok? Unless your feeling guilty because the Holy Spirit is telling you "Stay away from this!". Just my opinion.
 
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DukeJohn

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I am a Christian & practice martial arts that involve chi. Qigong as used in a combative form of Tai Chi as well as Kung Fu. It is legit & fine for Christians.

I take martial arts to I am a green belt. and it does involve chi but i didn't know Qigong is used in Kung fu. thanks :)
 
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DukeJohn

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First, let me say that when it DOES happen, stop the thought. Interrupt it, don't allow it to continue. The Bible tells us to take all our thoughts captive


Thanks Alot This does help alot. and since i have read some of the things on this forum i have not had these thoughts much anymore. :)
:hug:
 
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~Anastasia~

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Thanks Alot This does help alot. and since i have read some of the things on this forum i have not had these thoughts much anymore. :)
:hug:

You're welcome. Sorry I missed this one being updated.

I'm glad you found something helpful in what I said and in the other posts here. Keep fighting the good fight. :)
 
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talitha

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we usually go to church every Sunday, but it being winter here and so much snow its hard to get there without getting stuck.... but its been at least 5 months since we have gone to church. and i rarely read my bible. which im ashamed of. and i think that is why im having these feelings. because im drifting into worldly things. and i don't know how to not drift into it. please help. any advice is Greatly appreciated.
Hey.. I would like to give you a sort of visual illustration. Here's a glass.
1298657419-glass.jpg

Now, if I do not put anything into this glass it would be empty, right?
Wrong. It actually has something in it. Air. The glass is like your mind. The Bible tells us what to fill our minds with: Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is fair, whatever is pure, whatever is acceptable, whatever is commendable, if there is anything of excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—keep thinking about these things (Phil.4:8). When you keep thinking about these things, it's like filling the glass with water. Otherwise, whatever is around you, in the atmosphere, with your brother drinking and mocking and stuff, whatever is on TV, and whatever the reasons are that have kept your family from attending church.... all those things that are around you will fill you like air in the glass. If we don't choose what to fill our minds with, our minds will not be empty - they will be filled with whatever surrounds us.
 
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H

HauntedByYou

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I can't really explain my confusion. it's like. i saw a tv show (Super Humans) And i saw this Chinese guy who could control his Chi (Life Energy) and turn it into heat in his hands. and i heard it was called Qigong. and i wanted to try it. but like most things i hear about i research on the internet. and i read that Chinese people are mostly Buddhist or something and they believe in idolatry and i sat there in shock and asked god to forgive me for wanting to even pursue that. but i didn't know that they called upon demons for there strength.
and also. i get this really bad image in my head like. (i am not an Atheist) like i picture myself as an atheist and it scares me and i keep getting these repetitive feelings that i should give up. but i don't wanna give up. and i pray to got that he never give's up on me for doing the things i do, repeatedly after i ask for forgiveness, what i mean by that is i do something then sincerely repent for doing it. but then it gets so tempting that i just fall back into it. and i don't want to. i just really need to stop doing (those things) but i can't help it its to tempting, i pray to god that he will help me stop falling into temptation. but i don't want to do this anymore. i have the will to change but im only 13 and i have so much time to figure out my life. i feel like my life is being rushed so bad. i need advice please help me.....

we usually go to church every Sunday, but it being winter here and so much snow its hard to get there without getting stuck.... but its been at least 5 months since we have gone to church. and i rarely read my bible. which im ashamed of. and i think that is why im having these feelings. because im drifting into worldly things. and i don't know how to not drift into it. please help. any advice is Greatly appreciated.

You don't know how not to drift into it, yet just before you said you don't read your bible. You answered your own question.
And if you feel as though the things you're watching are putting wrong thoughts and ideas into your head perhaps you need to reconsider what you're allowing yourself to watch.
 
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Max Shade

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I take martial arts to I am a green belt. and it does involve chi but i didn't know Qigong is used in Kung fu. thanks :)

Different arts may contain varying content regarding the place of chi. It is frequently expressed as internal vs external or soft vs had martial arts. It is a gradient rather than binary thing, some arts are softer, others more external. In some Kung fu practices, qui gong is employed significantly, in other schools not so much. The tool that heals can be the tool that injures, as a scalpel can be used for life saving surgery, so it can also be used to maim

I am not looking for a reason it is okay. My life up until recently has been all about fighting. There are villains in the world and it takes skill to beat prison muscle or PCP enhanced rage. Fighting the good fight has involved learning a number of arts & I have found learning about chi very useful in real world, full contact, bad guy subduing. Logic does not support avoiding a tool because it was made in China. Tools are morally neutral. Making it a moral issue is disingenuous.
 
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Leonfrost

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Logic does not support avoiding a tool because it was made in China.

That is my new favorite quote. Ever. Of all time. I've been trained in Southern Shaolin for about eight years now, which is enough time to learn the martial applications of Qigong as well as the healing aspects. Knowing the benefits it gives, it hurts to see paranoia around what is often umbrella-labeled as "Eastern occultism."
 
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com7fy8

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Hi, Duke John :) You said >
I can't really explain my confusion. it's like. i saw a tv show (Super Humans) And i saw this Chinese guy who could control his Chi (Life Energy) and turn it into heat in his hands. and i heard it was called Qigong. and i wanted to try it.
We need how God's love can warm our hearts into caring for any and all people, even being able to warmly stay kind with wrong people > "Love never fails." (in 1 Corinthians 13:8) This does not come with knowing a method of control, but this comes with our Father's correction of our character so we can grow in how to love.

Is there hope for us doing this? "Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us." (Romans 5:5) So, God in us is sharing with us His own warmth of family caring and intimately sharing affection, to make us more and more warmly affectionate with any and all people > even if they do not love us > 2 Corinthians 12:15.

And this our example can spread to help others become the same way > not by forcing and lecturing > "nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." (1 Peter 5:3)

This is what our Father does in us. So, this is not dependent on any philosophy that we can understand, or any method we can copy-cat and control our own selves to do.

So, I am concerned if you are interested in what you can get your own self to do.

Trust our Father to correct us and heal us into His love and how we then find out how to love. This is where our attention needs to be first.

So, we need to win against all the attacks on our attention. There are many ways of attacking our attention, in order to bring us elsewhere. We can be bribed by the promises of "healing" and "wealth" and "prosperity" and "love", and things can bash us in our minds. Our attention needs to be with God and loving :) in His peace and even joy that is tender and sweet and pleasant and delighting in loving and forgiving. Why be busy with less that could be meant to keep your attention away?

"'Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.'" (Matthew 11:28-29)
 
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Max Shade

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Hi, Duke John :) You said >We need how God's love can warm our hearts into caring for any and all people, even being able to warmly stay kind with wrong people > "Love never fails." (in 1 Corinthians 13:8) This does not come with knowing a method of control, but this comes with our Father's correction of our character so we can grow in how to love.
. . .
Trust our Father to correct us and heal us into His love and how we then find out how to love. This is where our attention needs to be first.

I don't understand how this is on topic.
 
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