How do you handle it?

[faatimahlove]

I have been in the church for many years, but untill recently, have realized how much that I have missed as the eyes of my heart were closed. Now that they are opening, I am receiving plenty of blessings from the Lord at a very fast pace that I am very grateful for. I have a church family, they are wonderful although I don't know them too well. I go to church with my three sisters. My mother is an unbeliever and doesn't exactly understand my sudden change in attitude or the way I am handling things. When I say the Holy Spirit spoke to me, he spoke. I have had a dramatic change in my life, as far as how I perceive things and etc. My mom doesn't get it and everytime I try to explain she just blows me off. Also, all of my friends from the past think that I am full of it because I have cried wolf plenty of many times. (ie. not smoking, drinking, etc.) and then when the going gets rough, and things get tough, my faith was superceeded.. and here came the drinks... but I am not going to do that. I am sure I am not. I won't turn back now. I know I can't make them believe me.. and I know I can't make them hear the truth, the truth I heard from the Lord. So I'm asking my peers, do you guys have any suggestions on how I could deal with and come to terms that I am "different" in their eyes, but not just the "new girl" different at a new school or "different race" at a predominately caucasion school.. I have changed my lifestlye drmatically. I understand that I can't keep everyone and that everyone is in my life for seasons, so my friends don't even matter that much if they can't accept me. I would still like to Help them and atleast witness to them before they totally blow me off.. and my mother, is anyone going through any similar situations?

 

[Nazzul]

Actions speak louder than words, if you want to show everyone how much you have changed then let them believe you through your actions, perhaps if you keep up your lifestyle changes people will start to turn around.

 

[faatimahlove]

I know.. i know that's how i should deal with my friends. but.. my mother?

 

[explodingboy]

exactly the same answer still.

Just expect it to take allot longer >_> adults don't handle change well especially as they still remember changing diapers etc, you have allot more actions to make up for.

 

[lindseykale]

I agree whole-heartedly. Once they (mother included) see that this is not just a phase then they should see that you are being truthful about who you are and why you've changed.
Get to know some of the people that you go to church with. Maybe try to make an effort to spend time with fellow christians your age. They should know what kind of pressures that you are going through with non-christian friends and give you positive encouragement. I myself am going through some changes and wish that I had friends and loved ones who understand.