Does God really have a plan?

[Matt11Confused]

So, I'm a person who has asked for God's help and forgiveness, and who would call themselves a believer. However, I don't think much progress has been made in my life as far as walking with Jesus goes. I've never joined a church. I've never been baptized. And I don't read the Bible much. I'm also not a very good person nor do I follow the commands of Jesus. However, I've always felt a tug towards God and I do feel bad for not following Him, although I feel like that is starting to die.

I'm 33 years old and don't have much going for me. I work in retail, but I'm currently in college pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science. I'm also living with my parents to save money.

Well, just recently, a woman who I was with for 3 years and who I lived with for 2 ended things with me. I'm not exactly sure why that happened, but I can cite numerous reasons. I guess that doesn't really matter. It's one of those things where she just became fed up with me and stopped feeling love for me. She meant a lot to me though and I still love her. Towards the end of the relationship, she started hanging out with a guy at work and the rest is history. No need to go over that. By the way, I'm no angel in this relationship. This post isn't meant to pile on my ex or anything. I forgive her--or at least I've been trying. I hope she forgives me too. I'm just in a lot of pain.

My ex believed in God, I think--but she was wishy-washy with it. However, she never seemed as interested as me. And she didn't seem interested in pursuing a Christian life. This is because of some things that happened to her earlier in life that made her question the existence of God or if He does exist, His moral nature. Regardless, I loved this girl a lot and I wanted to even have children with her.

I don't have many friends and my family is dysfunctional to the point where they can offer little to no support and even make things worse. So where to I go? At first, I cried out to God and I went to church, on my own, for the first time. I've been to church before but I've never went to a sermon on Sunday, by myself, under my own volition. I was looking for something. It was a good experience. I've also been asking God to take away my sadness and anger. But then I slipped, like I usually do. I hooked up with a girl at work, soon after my ex told me she didn't think we should talk anymore. I used this girl at work. I'm garbage for that. Before I did anything with this woman, I told her my situation and my intentions, and she didn't seem to mind. Afterwards, she did seem to mind. I don't blame her. I told her we both made a mistake and that I'm sorry. Then I took a long walk and cried out in sadness and anger at myself, for using this woman. I don't want to do that stuff anymore. I just want the pain to go away. So, I asked God to forgive me and to change my heart. I've asked this before, but it never seems to work. I'm hoping this time it happens.

Will you guys pray for me? Do you have any advice? Do you think everything happens for a reason? Will God help me? Please help...

 

[Hazelelponi]

So, I'm a person who has asked for God's help and forgiveness, and who would call themselves a believer. However, I don't think much progress has been made in my life as far as walking with Jesus goes. I've never joined a church. I've never been baptized. And I don't read the Bible much. I'm also not a very good person nor do I follow the commands of Jesus. However, I've always felt a tug towards God and I do feel bad for not following Him, although I feel like that is starting to die.

I'm 33 years old and don't have much going for me. I work in retail, but I'm currently in college pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science. I'm also living with my parents to save money.

Well, just recently, a woman who I was with for 3 years and who I lived with for 2 ended things with me. I'm not exactly sure why that happened, but I can cite numerous reasons. I guess that doesn't really matter. It's one of those things where she just became fed up with me and stopped feeling love for me. She meant a lot to me though and I still love her. Towards the end of the relationship, she started hanging out with a guy at work and the rest is history. No need to go over that. By the way, I'm no angel in this relationship. This post isn't meant to pile on my ex or anything. I forgive her--or at least I've been trying. I hope she forgives me too. I'm just in a lot of pain.

My ex believed in God, I think--but she was wishy-washy with it. However, she never seemed as interested as me. And she didn't seem interested in pursuing a Christian life. This is because of some things that happened to her earlier in life that made her question the existence of God or if He does exist, His moral nature. Regardless, I loved this girl a lot and I wanted to even have children with her.

I don't have many friends and my family is dysfunctional to the point where they can offer little to no support and even make things worse. So where to I go? At first, I cried out to God and I went to church, on my own, for the first time. I've been to church before but I've never went to a sermon on Sunday, by myself, under my own volition. I was looking for something. It was a good experience. I've also been asking God to take away my sadness and anger. But then I slipped, like I usually do. I hooked up with a girl at work, soon after my ex told me she didn't think we should talk anymore. I used this girl at work. I'm garbage for that. Before I did anything with this woman, I told her my situation and my intentions, and she didn't seem to mind. Afterwards, she did seem to mind. I don't blame her. I told her we both made a mistake and that I'm sorry. Then I took a long walk and cried out in sadness and anger at myself, for using this woman. I don't want to do that stuff anymore. I just want the pain to go away. So, I asked God to forgive me and to change my heart. I've asked this before, but it never seems to work. I'm hoping this time it happens.

Will you guys pray for me? Do you have any advice? Do you think everything happens for a reason? Will God help me? Please help...

When I was first interested in learning about Jesus I underwent some very serious spiritual attacks.

We should pray for you, as others prayed for me, for the spirits of darkness to stay away from you so that you can make a clear minded decision.

 

[Halbhh]

So, I'm a person who has asked for God's help and forgiveness, and who would call themselves a believer. However, I don't think much progress has been made in my life as far as walking with Jesus goes. I've never joined a church. I've never been baptized. And I don't read the Bible much. I'm also not a very good person nor do I follow the commands of Jesus. However, I've always felt a tug towards God and I do feel bad for not following Him, although I feel like that is starting to die.

I'm 33 years old and don't have much going for me. I work in retail, but I'm currently in college pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science. I'm also living with my parents to save money.

Well, just recently, a woman who I was with for 3 years and who I lived with for 2 ended things with me. I'm not exactly sure why that happened, but I can cite numerous reasons. I guess that doesn't really matter. It's one of those things where she just became fed up with me and stopped feeling love for me. She meant a lot to me though and I still love her. Towards the end of the relationship, she started hanging out with a guy at work and the rest is history. No need to go over that. By the way, I'm no angel in this relationship. This post isn't meant to pile on my ex or anything. I forgive her--or at least I've been trying. I hope she forgives me too. I'm just in a lot of pain.

My ex believed in God, I think--but she was wishy-washy with it. However, she never seemed as interested as me. And she didn't seem interested in pursuing a Christian life. This is because of some things that happened to her earlier in life that made her question the existence of God or if He does exist, His moral nature. Regardless, I loved this girl a lot and I wanted to even have children with her.

I don't have many friends and my family is dysfunctional to the point where they can offer little to no support and even make things worse. So where to I go? At first, I cried out to God and I went to church, on my own, for the first time. I've been to church before but I've never went to a sermon on Sunday, by myself, under my own volition. I was looking for something. It was a good experience. I've also been asking God to take away my sadness and anger. But then I slipped, like I usually do. I hooked up with a girl at work, soon after my ex told me she didn't think we should talk anymore. I used this girl at work. I'm garbage for that. Before I did anything with this woman, I told her my situation and my intentions, and she didn't seem to mind. Afterwards, she did seem to mind. I don't blame her. I told her we both made a mistake and that I'm sorry. Then I took a long walk and cried out in sadness and anger at myself, for using this woman. I don't want to do that stuff anymore. I just want the pain to go away. So, I asked God to forgive me and to change my heart. I've asked this before, but it never seems to work. I'm hoping this time it happens.

Will you guys pray for me? Do you have any advice? Do you think everything happens for a reason? Will God help me? Please help...

Welcome here. I'm so glad you are feeling a desire to seek God, to find Him. God loves all of us, and we have all sinned, and He has made a way for us to be changed, and to escape from our wrongs we've done.
" For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."
Jesus came here to rescue us from our lostness and wrongs. We are like strayed beloved ones of His, who He wants to reconcile to God, and to bring us out of the darkness of our lostness, and into the light and love of God.
Consider how Christ told us we can seek and find the One to whom we ultimately belong
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
“Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! 12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."
Pray in your heart and ask God to make a way for you to Him, to bring you to Him. Pray knowing that He certainly intends that you be able to come to Him, and that He will grant your prayer.

To choose a church, you should see visibly this happening there --
"By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." You want to see this, and feel welcomed, and also hear the words of Christ in services.

 

[Matt11Confused]

I ask for God's forgiveness, but I worry I'm not genuine. But sometimes I think I am. However, I always slip... and in the worst way. Am I just one of the seeds that has been choked by thorns, or that has fallen into a crack? I don't want to slip anymore--or at least I want to make real progress.

And is it possible for God to stop listening to people?

 

[dreadnought]

So, I'm a person who has asked for God's help and forgiveness, and who would call themselves a believer. However, I don't think much progress has been made in my life as far as walking with Jesus goes. I've never joined a church. I've never been baptized. And I don't read the Bible much. I'm also not a very good person nor do I follow the commands of Jesus. However, I've always felt a tug towards God and I do feel bad for not following Him, although I feel like that is starting to die.

I'm 33 years old and don't have much going for me. I work in retail, but I'm currently in college pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science. I'm also living with my parents to save money.

Well, just recently, a woman who I was with for 3 years and who I lived with for 2 ended things with me. I'm not exactly sure why that happened, but I can cite numerous reasons. I guess that doesn't really matter. It's one of those things where she just became fed up with me and stopped feeling love for me. She meant a lot to me though and I still love her. Towards the end of the relationship, she started hanging out with a guy at work and the rest is history. No need to go over that. By the way, I'm no angel in this relationship. This post isn't meant to pile on my ex or anything. I forgive her--or at least I've been trying. I hope she forgives me too. I'm just in a lot of pain.

My ex believed in God, I think--but she was wishy-washy with it. However, she never seemed as interested as me. And she didn't seem interested in pursuing a Christian life. This is because of some things that happened to her earlier in life that made her question the existence of God or if He does exist, His moral nature. Regardless, I loved this girl a lot and I wanted to even have children with her.

I don't have many friends and my family is dysfunctional to the point where they can offer little to no support and even make things worse. So where to I go? At first, I cried out to God and I went to church, on my own, for the first time. I've been to church before but I've never went to a sermon on Sunday, by myself, under my own volition. I was looking for something. It was a good experience. I've also been asking God to take away my sadness and anger. But then I slipped, like I usually do. I hooked up with a girl at work, soon after my ex told me she didn't think we should talk anymore. I used this girl at work. I'm garbage for that. Before I did anything with this woman, I told her my situation and my intentions, and she didn't seem to mind. Afterwards, she did seem to mind. I don't blame her. I told her we both made a mistake and that I'm sorry. Then I took a long walk and cried out in sadness and anger at myself, for using this woman. I don't want to do that stuff anymore. I just want the pain to go away. So, I asked God to forgive me and to change my heart. I've asked this before, but it never seems to work. I'm hoping this time it happens.

Will you guys pray for me? Do you have any advice? Do you think everything happens for a reason? Will God help me? Please help...

I think the Lord's plan is to lead each of us to heaven.

 

[com7fy8]

First, hi and God bless you, and welcome to Christian Forums I am Bill, pleased to meet you

Towards the end of the relationship, she started hanging out with a guy at work and the rest is history.

She is not guaranteed that he will be a good choice. It is possible he charmed her and she compared his acting to you.

And she didn't seem interested in pursuing a Christian life. This is because of some things that happened to her earlier in life that made her question the existence of God or if He does exist, His moral nature. Regardless, I loved this girl a lot and I wanted to even have children with her.

Her character has a lot to do with how she will see things. Past circumstances are not all there is to it.

And is it possible for God to stop listening to people?

It is possible He is listening to what you are thinking!!

And I would not want to limit myself to what I can think, since God can do so better with us. So, often, I simply be quiet and discover what God actually does with me.

 

[BNR32FAN]

So, I'm a person who has asked for God's help and forgiveness, and who would call themselves a believer. However, I don't think much progress has been made in my life as far as walking with Jesus goes. I've never joined a church. I've never been baptized. And I don't read the Bible much. I'm also not a very good person nor do I follow the commands of Jesus. However, I've always felt a tug towards God and I do feel bad for not following Him, although I feel like that is starting to die.

I'm 33 years old and don't have much going for me. I work in retail, but I'm currently in college pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science. I'm also living with my parents to save money.

Well, just recently, a woman who I was with for 3 years and who I lived with for 2 ended things with me. I'm not exactly sure why that happened, but I can cite numerous reasons. I guess that doesn't really matter. It's one of those things where she just became fed up with me and stopped feeling love for me. She meant a lot to me though and I still love her. Towards the end of the relationship, she started hanging out with a guy at work and the rest is history. No need to go over that. By the way, I'm no angel in this relationship. This post isn't meant to pile on my ex or anything. I forgive her--or at least I've been trying. I hope she forgives me too. I'm just in a lot of pain.

My ex believed in God, I think--but she was wishy-washy with it. However, she never seemed as interested as me. And she didn't seem interested in pursuing a Christian life. This is because of some things that happened to her earlier in life that made her question the existence of God or if He does exist, His moral nature. Regardless, I loved this girl a lot and I wanted to even have children with her.

I don't have many friends and my family is dysfunctional to the point where they can offer little to no support and even make things worse. So where to I go? At first, I cried out to God and I went to church, on my own, for the first time. I've been to church before but I've never went to a sermon on Sunday, by myself, under my own volition. I was looking for something. It was a good experience. I've also been asking God to take away my sadness and anger. But then I slipped, like I usually do. I hooked up with a girl at work, soon after my ex told me she didn't think we should talk anymore. I used this girl at work. I'm garbage for that. Before I did anything with this woman, I told her my situation and my intentions, and she didn't seem to mind. Afterwards, she did seem to mind. I don't blame her. I told her we both made a mistake and that I'm sorry. Then I took a long walk and cried out in sadness and anger at myself, for using this woman. I don't want to do that stuff anymore. I just want the pain to go away. So, I asked God to forgive me and to change my heart. I've asked this before, but it never seems to work. I'm hoping this time it happens.

Will you guys pray for me? Do you have any advice? Do you think everything happens for a reason? Will God help me? Please help...

The Holy Spirit is working on you my friend. That’s why you are feeling so bad. It will continue and you will continue to feel bad until you give in and commit your life to God. God is calling you. Isn’t that amazing?!! As powerful and mighty as He is He is calling to you personally. As insignificant as we are compared to Him and amongst so many others in the world doesn’t it feel good to know that God has you on His mind. This happened to me. 6 years ago if someone had told me that I would read the Bible and even conduct a bible study I would’ve laughed and said you’ve got the wrong guy. But God began to call me and during the time I was rebelling I went thru some pretty rough times until I finally gave in. Man before I did give in I was a mess. My whole life was a mess. I was 39 single never married no kids always struggling to make ends meet. I was extremely lonely and starting to think I might never have a family of my own. Now this might not be your situation but I’m just sharing this to show you what God has done in my life the last 5 years. After evaluating my life I began to realize that God was not blessing me because I had done nothing to deserve His help. I decided that for almost 40 years I had been living my life my way and it wasn’t working. So I decided to change my life and live my life God’s way and I can’t express to you the blessing I received. The feeling I got in my heart was soooooo overwhelming. I began listening to the Bible on my iPhone. If you decide to download a bible app I would suggest the YouVersion bible app. It has several different bible versions. As far as bible versions the NLT or ESV are good to start with. They are very easy to understand because they are written the way we speak today without all the thee and thouest lingo. The app also works with Bluetooth so you can listen while your driving or working around the house. I also started volunteering to do work at the church. Cutting the grass, landscaping, cleaning, doing maintenance, painting, etc. I became addicted to the feeling I had in my heart from doing these things. For once in my life I actually felt good about myself. Don’t get me wrong tho I did backslide a few times. I didn’t change overnight. When that happened I would just keep my focus on The Lord and emerge myself in the Bible. It took a while to get rid of my old “vocabulary”. I tell you the truth the Bible really will change your life. Like I said before I never would’ve thought that I would say something like that. I used to love to drink and party and sleep around, smoke marijuana. I loved metal I listened to Tool, Marilyn Manson, Nine inch Nails, Slayer, etc. I cursed a lot and had a quick temper. All that is gone now. I began to see God helping me in my life pretty quick. The first drastic change was I received a 12% increase raise at my work then shortly after another 12%. Then I met a beautiful young lady with two wonderful daughters and fell in love. Now we’re happily married and expecting a son in 2 weeks. My life has never been so good and I owe it all to God. I guarantee you if you devote your life to God He will bless you with more than you can imagine. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain brother. I would suggest finding a good church to attend. A church that doesn’t just meet on Sundays but has more opportunities to interact with other Christians throughout the week. Get connected with a bible study group. Download the YouVersion bible app and just start listening bro. I would suggest starting in Matthew and going thru the New Testament before going into the Old Testament. Much has changed from the Old Testament days and in my opinion it’s better to learn what is more relevant now then go back and learn the history of these teachings. The Old Testament is SUPER LONG and trust me you will get burned out before you finish it. A lot of it doesn’t apply to us today. I learned the hard way and tried to start from Genesis and go thru from beginning to end and I didn’t make it. Lol all the laws and useless knowledge of how to build a tabernacle. Trust me start in Matthew and finish the New Testament first. Oh and one more thing if you ever backslide and do something you really regret and you feel so ashamed confess it to God. Don’t let your shame cause you to avoid bringing the problem to God. I backslid and sometimes I was so ashamed that I didn’t want to ask God for forgiveness because I felt like I didn’t deserve it. This is actually a deception from satan. Don’t fall into that trap. God has seen much worse than what you have done and no matter how bad it is He will always forgive you if you ask. He knows we will fail several times but it’s important that you always turn to Him for help. Let me know if you’d like to chat some more brother. I’d love to be of help anytime you need. God bless you bro.

 

[Matt11Confused]

The Holy Spirit is working on you my friend. That’s why you are feeling so bad. It will continue and you will continue to feel bad until you give in and commit your life to God. God is calling you. Isn’t that amazing?!! As powerful and mighty as He is He is calling to you personally. As insignificant as we are compared to Him and amongst so many others in the world doesn’t it feel good to know that God has you on His mind. This happened to me. 6 years ago if someone had told me that I would read the Bible and even conduct a bible study I would’ve laughed and said you’ve got the wrong guy. But God began to call me and during the time I was rebelling I went thru some pretty rough times until I finally gave in. Man before I did give in I was a mess. My whole life was a mess. I was 39 single never married no kids always struggling to make ends meet. I was extremely lonely and starting to think I might never have a family of my own. Now this might not be your situation but I’m just sharing this to show you what God has done in my life the last 5 years. After evaluating my life I began to realize that God was not blessing me because I had done nothing to deserve His help. I decided that for almost 40 years I had been living my life my way and it wasn’t working. So I decided to change my life and live my life God’s way and I can’t express to you the blessing I received. The feeling I got in my heart was soooooo overwhelming. I began listening to the Bible on my iPhone. If you decide to download a bible app I would suggest the YouVersion bible app. It has several different bible versions. As far as bible versions the NLT or ESV are good to start with. They are very easy to understand because they are written the way we speak today without all the thee and thouest lingo. The app also works with Bluetooth so you can listen while your driving or working around the house. I also started volunteering to do work at the church. Cutting the grass, landscaping, cleaning, doing maintenance, painting, etc. I became addicted to the feeling I had in my heart from doing these things. For once in my life I actually felt good about myself. Don’t get me wrong tho I did backslide a few times. I didn’t change overnight. When that happened I would just keep my focus on The Lord and emerge myself in the Bible. It took a while to get rid of my old “vocabulary”. I tell you the truth the Bible really will change your life. Like I said before I never would’ve thought that I would say something like that. I used to love to drink and party and sleep around, smoke marijuana. I loved metal I listened to Tool, Marilyn Manson, Nine inch Nails, Slayer, etc. I cursed a lot and had a quick temper. All that is gone now. I began to see God helping me in my life pretty quick. The first drastic change was I received a 12% increase raise at my work then shortly after another 12%. Then I met a beautiful young lady with two wonderful daughters and fell in love. Now we’re happily married and expecting a son in 2 weeks. My life has never been so good and I owe it all to God. I guarantee you if you devote your life to God He will bless you with more than you can imagine. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain brother. I would suggest finding a good church to attend. A church that doesn’t just meet on Sundays but has more opportunities to interact with other Christians throughout the week. Get connected with a bible study group. Download the YouVersion bible app and just start listening bro. I would suggest starting in Matthew and going thru the New Testament before going into the Old Testament. Much has changed from the Old Testament days and in my opinion it’s better to learn what is more relevant now then go back and learn the history of these teachings. The Old Testament is SUPER LONG and trust me you will get burned out before you finish it. A lot of it doesn’t apply to us today. I learned the hard way and tried to start from Genesis and go thru from beginning to end and I didn’t make it. Lol all the laws and useless knowledge of how to build a tabernacle. Trust me start in Matthew and finish the New Testament first. Oh and one more thing if you ever backslide and do something you really regret and you feel so ashamed confess it to God. Don’t let your shame cause you to avoid bringing the problem to God. I backslid and sometimes I was so ashamed that I didn’t want to ask God for forgiveness because I felt like I didn’t deserve it. This is actually a deception from satan. Don’t fall into that trap. God has seen much worse than what you have done and no matter how bad it is He will always forgive you if you ask. He knows we will fail several times but it’s important that you always turn to Him for help. Let me know if you’d like to chat some more brother. I’d love to be of help anytime you need. God bless you bro.

I feel really hurt because of this breakup. And the idea of committing myself to God feels alien. Will that go away? I have no where else to turn to... I just want the pain to go away and I don't want to disobey God anymore--but saying that gave me pause. Will I be happy? All I want is to not be lonely anymore and to have a wife and kids...

 

[Matt11Confused]

The Holy Spirit is working on you my friend. That’s why you are feeling so bad. It will continue and you will continue to feel bad until you give in and commit your life to God. God is calling you. Isn’t that amazing?!! As powerful and mighty as He is He is calling to you personally. As insignificant as we are compared to Him and amongst so many others in the world doesn’t it feel good to know that God has you on His mind. This happened to me. 6 years ago if someone had told me that I would read the Bible and even conduct a bible study I would’ve laughed and said you’ve got the wrong guy. But God began to call me and during the time I was rebelling I went thru some pretty rough times until I finally gave in. Man before I did give in I was a mess. My whole life was a mess. I was 39 single never married no kids always struggling to make ends meet. I was extremely lonely and starting to think I might never have a family of my own. Now this might not be your situation but I’m just sharing this to show you what God has done in my life the last 5 years. After evaluating my life I began to realize that God was not blessing me because I had done nothing to deserve His help. I decided that for almost 40 years I had been living my life my way and it wasn’t working. So I decided to change my life and live my life God’s way and I can’t express to you the blessing I received. The feeling I got in my heart was soooooo overwhelming. I began listening to the Bible on my iPhone. If you decide to download a bible app I would suggest the YouVersion bible app. It has several different bible versions. As far as bible versions the NLT or ESV are good to start with. They are very easy to understand because they are written the way we speak today without all the thee and thouest lingo. The app also works with Bluetooth so you can listen while your driving or working around the house. I also started volunteering to do work at the church. Cutting the grass, landscaping, cleaning, doing maintenance, painting, etc. I became addicted to the feeling I had in my heart from doing these things. For once in my life I actually felt good about myself. Don’t get me wrong tho I did backslide a few times. I didn’t change overnight. When that happened I would just keep my focus on The Lord and emerge myself in the Bible. It took a while to get rid of my old “vocabulary”. I tell you the truth the Bible really will change your life. Like I said before I never would’ve thought that I would say something like that. I used to love to drink and party and sleep around, smoke marijuana. I loved metal I listened to Tool, Marilyn Manson, Nine inch Nails, Slayer, etc. I cursed a lot and had a quick temper. All that is gone now. I began to see God helping me in my life pretty quick. The first drastic change was I received a 12% increase raise at my work then shortly after another 12%. Then I met a beautiful young lady with two wonderful daughters and fell in love. Now we’re happily married and expecting a son in 2 weeks. My life has never been so good and I owe it all to God. I guarantee you if you devote your life to God He will bless you with more than you can imagine. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain brother. I would suggest finding a good church to attend. A church that doesn’t just meet on Sundays but has more opportunities to interact with other Christians throughout the week. Get connected with a bible study group. Download the YouVersion bible app and just start listening bro. I would suggest starting in Matthew and going thru the New Testament before going into the Old Testament. Much has changed from the Old Testament days and in my opinion it’s better to learn what is more relevant now then go back and learn the history of these teachings. The Old Testament is SUPER LONG and trust me you will get burned out before you finish it. A lot of it doesn’t apply to us today. I learned the hard way and tried to start from Genesis and go thru from beginning to end and I didn’t make it. Lol all the laws and useless knowledge of how to build a tabernacle. Trust me start in Matthew and finish the New Testament first. Oh and one more thing if you ever backslide and do something you really regret and you feel so ashamed confess it to God. Don’t let your shame cause you to avoid bringing the problem to God. I backslid and sometimes I was so ashamed that I didn’t want to ask God for forgiveness because I felt like I didn’t deserve it. This is actually a deception from satan. Don’t fall into that trap. God has seen much worse than what you have done and no matter how bad it is He will always forgive you if you ask. He knows we will fail several times but it’s important that you always turn to Him for help. Let me know if you’d like to chat some more brother. I’d love to be of help anytime you need. God bless you bro.

Thank you for responding to me. I really appreciate it.

 

[paul1149]

Do you think everything happens for a reason? Will God help me?

I think everything does have reasons it happens, but more importantly, God can use anything for His transcendent purposes:

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. -Rom 8.28​

God definitely will help you. Remember the story of the prodigal son (Luke 15). When things got really bad he finally decided to humble himself and go back home. "While he was still a long way off" the father saw him and ran to him. All that time he had been hoping, praying, waiting for his son to return safe and sound. Jesus told that story for a reason. You have done nothing worse than the son in that story.

This is a terrible time for you, but if it brings you to consecrate yourself to the lordship of Jesus Christ, it can be the beginning of a wonderful new life. The choice is yours and yours alone. "The promises of God in Christ are Yes, and they await our Amen." (2Cor 1.20)

Don't worry that you won't get it perfect. Just start with what you have. Take it day by day, moment by moment. Resolve not to go backward, and if you slip, talk to God about it, get back up and continue on. Any parent can tell you that kids learn at their own pace, and they seldom get it right the first time.

Above all, trust God. Trust Him implicitly, even more than you trust yourself. He will make your paths straight (Prov 3.5-6).

 

[FutureAndAHope]

So, I'm a person who has asked for God's help and forgiveness, and who would call themselves a believer. However, I don't think much progress has been made in my life as far as walking with Jesus goes. I've never joined a church. I've never been baptized. And I don't read the Bible much. I'm also not a very good person nor do I follow the commands of Jesus. However, I've always felt a tug towards God and I do feel bad for not following Him, although I feel like that is starting to die.

I'm 33 years old and don't have much going for me. I work in retail, but I'm currently in college pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science. I'm also living with my parents to save money.

Well, just recently, a woman who I was with for 3 years and who I lived with for 2 ended things with me. I'm not exactly sure why that happened, but I can cite numerous reasons. I guess that doesn't really matter. It's one of those things where she just became fed up with me and stopped feeling love for me. She meant a lot to me though and I still love her. Towards the end of the relationship, she started hanging out with a guy at work and the rest is history. No need to go over that. By the way, I'm no angel in this relationship. This post isn't meant to pile on my ex or anything. I forgive her--or at least I've been trying. I hope she forgives me too. I'm just in a lot of pain.

My ex believed in God, I think--but she was wishy-washy with it. However, she never seemed as interested as me. And she didn't seem interested in pursuing a Christian life. This is because of some things that happened to her earlier in life that made her question the existence of God or if He does exist, His moral nature. Regardless, I loved this girl a lot and I wanted to even have children with her.

I don't have many friends and my family is dysfunctional to the point where they can offer little to no support and even make things worse. So where to I go? At first, I cried out to God and I went to church, on my own, for the first time. I've been to church before but I've never went to a sermon on Sunday, by myself, under my own volition. I was looking for something. It was a good experience. I've also been asking God to take away my sadness and anger. But then I slipped, like I usually do. I hooked up with a girl at work, soon after my ex told me she didn't think we should talk anymore. I used this girl at work. I'm garbage for that. Before I did anything with this woman, I told her my situation and my intentions, and she didn't seem to mind. Afterwards, she did seem to mind. I don't blame her. I told her we both made a mistake and that I'm sorry. Then I took a long walk and cried out in sadness and anger at myself, for using this woman. I don't want to do that stuff anymore. I just want the pain to go away. So, I asked God to forgive me and to change my heart. I've asked this before, but it never seems to work. I'm hoping this time it happens.

Will you guys pray for me? Do you have any advice? Do you think everything happens for a reason? Will God help me? Please help...

The bible says "Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these other things will be added to you".

Reading your struggle I can sympathise with your pain. These things can be tough emotionally speaking. Now I am going to say a few things, that may seem harsh, or stepping on your toes, but it is intended to help you.

As a Christian God commands us not have have sex with women before we are married to them, this is to ensure we are really committed to the relationship before we get deeply involved. The command ensures that we don't as you said "use" women. It is a protection, for both the woman, and for the man. Every command that God gives has the purpose of protection. As an example the law states that a person who commits adultery should be put to death. In practice, God never put a person to death for adultery, David a king committed adultery God let him live, A woman was caught in adultery in the New Testament, Jesus (God in the flesh) let her go free, with the provision saying "Go and sin no more". The law in the bible is in place to protect us from bad behaviours, but it is not there to kill us. God would have you follow His commands, not to give you a hard time but to protect you, an others from harm.

To be a Christian following God's commands is not an optional extra, you must follow them. God promises that as we "follow His commands", or as I said "seek first God's kingdom", He has also covenanted to provide for all your needs, including the need for a partner who loves.

 

[Matt11Confused]

The bible says "Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these other things will be added to you".

Reading your struggle I can sympathise with your pain. These things can be tough emotionally speaking. Now I am going to say a few things, that may seem harsh, or stepping on your toes, but it is intended to help you.

As a Christian God commands us not have have sex with women before we are married to them, this is to ensure we are really committed to the relationship before we get deeply involved. The command ensures that we don't as you said "use" women. It is a protection, for both the woman, and for the man. Every command that God gives has the purpose of protection. As an example the law states that a person who commits adultery should be put to death. In practice, God never put a person to death for adultery, David a king committed adultery God let him live, A woman was caught in adultery in the New Testament, Jesus (God in the flesh) let her go free, with the provision saying "Go and sin no more". The law in the bible is in place to protect us from bad behaviours, but it is not there to kill us. God would have you follow His commands, not to give you a hard time but to protect you, an others from harm.

To be a Christian following God's commands is not an optional extra, you must follow them. God promises that as we "follow His commands", or as I said "seek first God's kingdom", He has also covenanted to provide for all your needs, including the need for a partner who loves.

I don't think you're stepping on my toes or anything like that. I'll seek the kingdom of God like you say.

I'm just in an extremely dark place right now, I've done disgusting things, and I've asked for God's help and forgiveness so many times. Except, I feel like I never committed. But now... I have nobody; I can only turn to God. I'm hoping this time I will make the commitment.

 

[JIMINZ]

You pretty much summed it up right here.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
You said.
So, I'm a person who has asked for God's help and forgiveness, and who would call themselves a believer.

However, I don't think much progress has been made in my life as far as walking with Jesus goes.

1) I've never joined a church.
2) I've never been baptized.
3) I don't read the Bible much.
4) I'm also not a very good person
5) nor do I follow the commands of Jesus.

6) However, I've always felt a tug towards God
6) I do feel bad for not following Him,
7) I feel like that is starting to die.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Right off the bat you say you were never Baptized.

This essentially means, you are no different that anyone else out there.

You say you have always felt a tug towards God.
Has that tug ever manifested itself in any other way than just a tug?
If so then how?

From all of the things you have listed that you don't do, what makes you think (Believe) you are a Christian?

Are you expecting God to jump out of the bushes and make you become something which you have thus far not shown you have any interest in?

If you are serious, and you really would like to have a Christian relationship with God, (Be Reconciled to Him) then you must make an effort.

1) Go into your room, close the door, ask God to reveal Himself to you.

If you understand who Jesus was and that He died to free you from your sins,

2) Then tell God you believe He died for you personally, then thank him for His mercy, and His Salvation.

3) After you are finished, go tell someone, anyone, you have just given your heart to the Lord and that you have been forgiven your sins.

4) Find a Church and tell the Pastor what you have done, and that you would like to be Baptized as soon as it can be arranged.

5) Then do all of those things you have not done, that you know you should.

Be Blessed in Jesus name.

 

[BNR32FAN]

I feel really hurt because of this breakup. And the idea of committing myself to God feels alien. Will that go away? I have no where else to turn to... I just want the pain to go away and I don't want to disobey God anymore--but saying that gave me pause. Will I be happy? All I want is to not be lonely anymore and to have a wife and kids...

Man I felt really out of place when I started going to church. I often pictured myself bursting into flames just walking in the door. I felt like such a heathen surrounded by a bunch of goodie two shoes people but the people in my church never treated me that way. Later I realized that everyone who first came to Christ is a heathen. It’s kinda like when you got your first computer or smartphone it felt so foreign and you might’ve felt like an idiot around people who had them for years and knew how to use them. But there was a time when those people also didn’t know what they were doing and felt the same way. You could also compare it to a first day at a new job. Everyone around you knows what they’re doing and your lost. Lol The people in my church embraced me and made me feel like one of them. They kept inviting me to church activities and fellowship meetings and bible studies. They really made me feel accepted. It took time before I began to feel like one of them. I had to first overcome my wretched feeling of being a heathen. I soon began to realize that these people were true Christians. They have such a beautiful heart. What I suggest is just keep in mind that these people don’t judge. Remember that we are all sinners even the pastor. When you begin to change and devote yourself to God you will feel an overwhelming sense of happiness in your heart. Volunteering to do work at the church will also be rewarding. I would also suggest surrounding yourself with reminders. Change your wallpaper on your phone & computer to a Jesus picture and hang some Jesus pictures on your walls at home. I also suggest buying two small crosses. One to wear and one to hang on your rear view mirror in your car. I had problems with porn and road rage and these helped me overcome that problem. Find a good Christian radio station. Finding some good Christian music you like will also help. For me I really like The Newsboys and Hillsong United. Check out this video tell me what you think.

 

[BNR32FAN]

Thank you for responding to me. I really appreciate it.

No problem bro anytime.

 

[FutureAndAHope]

I don't think you're stepping on my toes or anything like that. I'll seek the kingdom of God like you say.

I'm just in an extremely dark place right now, I've done disgusting things, and I've asked for God's help and forgiveness so many times. Except, I feel like I never committed. But now... I have nobody; I can only turn to God. I'm hoping this time I will make the commitment.

It is a good decision to follow Christ more fully. Not just for today, but also for your tomorrow. Eternal life should never be traded for short term gain.

 

[Chronel]

I think you need to think your priority first. God comes first, then you may pursue the others once you have put Him in the right place in your life. Rather than rushing out a relationship that you want with a woman, try to pursue more relationship with God. Go to church, open your heart to what He says, leave your burden for a while and just focus on Him. He listens to you. He will leads you somewhere, sometime, for you to find your peace.

Remember, my friend, God comes first. Do not ask God to show you the way, ask God to lead you to the way.

 

[Chinchilla]

So, I'm a person who has asked for God's help and forgiveness, and who would call themselves a believer. However, I don't think much progress has been made in my life as far as walking with Jesus goes. I've never joined a church. I've never been baptized. And I don't read the Bible much. I'm also not a very good person nor do I follow the commands of Jesus. However, I've always felt a tug towards God and I do feel bad for not following Him, although I feel like that is starting to die.

I'm 33 years old and don't have much going for me. I work in retail, but I'm currently in college pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science. I'm also living with my parents to save money.

Well, just recently, a woman who I was with for 3 years and who I lived with for 2 ended things with me. I'm not exactly sure why that happened, but I can cite numerous reasons. I guess that doesn't really matter. It's one of those things where she just became fed up with me and stopped feeling love for me. She meant a lot to me though and I still love her. Towards the end of the relationship, she started hanging out with a guy at work and the rest is history. No need to go over that. By the way, I'm no angel in this relationship. This post isn't meant to pile on my ex or anything. I forgive her--or at least I've been trying. I hope she forgives me too. I'm just in a lot of pain.

My ex believed in God, I think--but she was wishy-washy with it. However, she never seemed as interested as me. And she didn't seem interested in pursuing a Christian life. This is because of some things that happened to her earlier in life that made her question the existence of God or if He does exist, His moral nature. Regardless, I loved this girl a lot and I wanted to even have children with her.

I don't have many friends and my family is dysfunctional to the point where they can offer little to no support and even make things worse. So where to I go? At first, I cried out to God and I went to church, on my own, for the first time. I've been to church before but I've never went to a sermon on Sunday, by myself, under my own volition. I was looking for something. It was a good experience. I've also been asking God to take away my sadness and anger. But then I slipped, like I usually do. I hooked up with a girl at work, soon after my ex told me she didn't think we should talk anymore. I used this girl at work. I'm garbage for that. Before I did anything with this woman, I told her my situation and my intentions, and she didn't seem to mind. Afterwards, she did seem to mind. I don't blame her. I told her we both made a mistake and that I'm sorry. Then I took a long walk and cried out in sadness and anger at myself, for using this woman. I don't want to do that stuff anymore. I just want the pain to go away. So, I asked God to forgive me and to change my heart. I've asked this before, but it never seems to work. I'm hoping this time it happens.

Will you guys pray for me? Do you have any advice? Do you think everything happens for a reason? Will God help me? Please help...

If you want to be close to Jesus then go win souls . How many did you win in your lifetime ?definition of Gospel is 1 Corinthians 15:1-4

 

[Matt11Confused]

Thank you for your responses everyone. I've been going on walks and talking to God every day, and I've been reading the Bible. This Sunday I will go to church again. And I've been trying to reflect on Jesus' commands before acting.

And you're right, God should come first. That will be difficult for me because I've been focusing on the hole my ex has left behind. I'll try to let God lead, as another poster has suggested.

 

[vinsight4u]

/nvm