need help i have hit a brick wall.

[jared185]

Ok I have ask questions on here before but I need some help. Why is it that I call on god (pray to him) and I despratly desire to be a christian but cant. I feel no connection yes when I pray things have happened such as prayer answered like when hunting and have a bad hunt after I pray things go right and I go to church and see people and how strong of christians they are about speaking to non believers. How come i desire to be as close as I can and really want to be a preacher and talk about god but I feel no connections to him. Im to scred to talk about him in public but in my mind I know exactly what to say. Long story short I asked god into my life but do not feel saved and the lack of a connection I feel has made me look into other religions. I know we just didnt show up here in a puff of smoke and I know we were created but I want to feel connected to my god why cant I feel that am I deceiving myself

 

[Sketcher]

You don't have to feel a connection in your heart to pray. Feelings happen from time to time, but faith is different. Faith counts on God to have heard you regardless of what you are feeling. For example, if you call a pizza delivery place and make an order, you have faith that they will send someone with your order to be there within half an hour. Otherwise, you're not likely to call them up to make the order. Why do you make the order? Because you are confident that they will keep to their word. Why are you confident that they will keep to their word? Because you have faith in them. Faith in God works the same way - we have no less reason to believe that he hears us and will act according to his wisdom and good nature (which may require him to say "no," "not yet," or "not as you expect").

 

[bling]

Ok I have ask questions on here before but I need some help. Why is it that I call on god (pray to him) and I despratly desire to be a christian but cant. I feel no connection yes when I pray things have happened such as prayer answered like when hunting and have a bad hunt after I pray things go right and I go to church and see people and how strong of christians they are about speaking to non believers. How come i desire to be as close as I can and really want to be a preacher and talk about god but I feel no connections to him. Im to scred to talk about him in public but in my mind I know exactly what to say. Long story short I asked god into my life but do not feel saved and the lack of a connection I feel has made me look into other religions. I know we just didnt show up here in a puff of smoke and I know we were created but I want to feel connected to my god why cant I feel that am I deceiving myself

You talk about “feeling connected”, “being closer”, and “felling saved”: well God/Jesus want to help you and has set up a way for you to: feel your sins being washed away, have the feeling of giving up your self-control, connecting with Christ’s burial and being raised to a new Life, going forth to your new family with hugs and kisses, having the feeling of humbling yourself to accept God’s help, giving a physical experience of the commitment you have made and being that witness to others from day one.

This all happens with the Christian believer immersion water baptism that Christ instituted for your benefit.

 

[jared185]

So let me ask another question ive been baptized and I ask god into my life. I want to do the right thing ( im not into drugs/alcohol or partying and have never done them im a father aand husband) im talking about me lying every now and then when someone asks a question they wont like the answer to and saying bad words when im angry. Its like during the day I forget god and at night when im alone with my thoughts I feel bad about the stuff I done and wish I was a good christian like people I see every now and then

 

[bling]

So let me ask another question ive been baptized and I ask god into my life. I want to do the right thing ( im not into drugs/alcohol or partying and have never done them im a father aand husband) im talking about me lying every now and then when someone asks a question they wont like the answer to and saying bad words when im angry. Its like during the day I forget god and at night when im alone with my thoughts I feel bad about the stuff I done and wish I was a good christian like people I see every now and then

First off let me tell you those “good Christian people you see now and then” have big challenges and might dwarf your problems. They might be drug addicted, alcoholics, or have other addictions, but they are living one day at a time or even one hour at a time or just minute to minute. You are not to be holding them up, but hold Christ up since He will not fail. The church is made up of needy people or they should not be there (those others are hypocrites and liars).

The way you were just becomes part of your witness (use your past wicked life like Paul used his).

If others Christians would real witness openly you would find out you’re not alone.

Look, let’s start afresh; the past is now the way you were. God has placed you where you are not because of the bad you have done but for the good you can do. Let’s not worry about trying “not to sin” but concentrate on the good you can do in the next 60 seconds. Write a list of all the good you can be doing, on the job with your job as a father, as a husband, while you’re driving and so on. Pray can be worked in lots of place list what all you can be thankful for, how great God is, who Loves you, and talk with God like He is beside you. You’re not going to have the time for TV, you will find new energy, this stuff can be great and not that hard (how hard is it to wash the dishes?).

 

[seeking Christ]

Ok I have ask questions on here before but I need some help. Why is it that I call on god (pray to him) and I despratly desire to be a christian but cant. I feel no connection yes when I pray things have happened such as prayer answered like when hunting and have a bad hunt after I pray things go right and I go to church and see people and how strong of christians they are about speaking to non believers. How come i desire to be as close as I can and really want to be a preacher and talk about god but I feel no connections to him. Im to scred to talk about him in public but in my mind I know exactly what to say. Long story short I asked god into my life but do not feel saved and the lack of a connection I feel has made me look into other religions. I know we just didnt show up here in a puff of smoke and I know we were created but I want to feel connected to my god why cant I feel that am I deceiving myself

What you are referring to, is doubt. Here is the cure:

"Lord I believe, help thou mine unbelief."

Are you part of a Bible study? Do you read it on your own? When? How much of it have you read? What are you currently reading? What is your prayer life like? Have you ever prayed the hours? This is the beginning of Lent, have you ever fasted? Do you have a good Church?

All these things are valid ways to attempt to draw near to God. The attitude with which they are done is not so easy to spell out, but the Bible is likened to a "mirror."

 

[ryanchastain]

Hi Friend,

Your concerns are all valid. And I have been in your shoes. I used to sit in North Point Church in Atlanta surrounded by 1000s of people and wonder why God wasn't talking to me like He was talking to them. Then people would get up on the big screen for Baptism and tell these powerful stories about life change. Which was great to watch. But still it wasn't happening for me. And I didn't know what to do. So it went on like that for like 6 years. Until finally I joined a small group. I got in with some guys who were just like me, and things started to get real. I started to see areas in my life that were holding me back from a relationship with God. That were stopping me from being like all those other people who were so fired up for the Lord.

It changed everything.

Then later I went to Afghanistan to fight in the war against terror. And things changed again. I never thought I would be as close to God as I got when my life was on the line everyday.

So my point is that a relationship with the Lord is a journey; it is a continuous walk that doesn't happen overnight. If your not in a small group, that's a good place to start. If you're not in a Church then join one. If you are and its not working for you, then try a different one. I have a website that breaks it all down for you that might help. whoisjesus4real.com. What I do know is that Jesus definitely wants to have a relationship with you and help with your life right now. Just keep your mind open and you will see. I promise. Please know that I am praying for you! And that you have tons of friends in Christ who are just like you. In Christ our Strong Redeemer, Ryan

 

[SkyBlade]

I've felt like that too. If you're a new Christian then it might take a while for you to spiritually develop. Sometimes I wonder and worry of I'm saved too. It's hard to believe that God would really forgive us but it's true, He will. I personally think that just the fact that you want to feel a connection with God hints that you are saved.

 

[jared185]

Well ill be honest I own a business and work from home and watch my two sons while working so I dont have a lot of free time or time with friends. I read the bible but by myself most of the time. My wife does not like reading it for some reason. Also I am not in church right at the moment to be honest we took our kids to a couple and people were very rude we have a 5 month old and a almost 3 year old and while they are very well behaved the three year old does tend to talk every now and then which makes people mad. Hes even been playing with a toy and dropped it and the man in front of us tried to hide it. So I kind of gave up on going to church and not to mention a few were more worried about gossip and had there ownn little civil war. I used to be part of a bible study group but moved and dont reallu know anyone to study with anymore. I just dont really know what to do I crave to know god and the thought of hell or nothing at all after death scares me. I know were to complex to just appear in a big bang or that (this is the funniest one of all) an alien with a green colord skin and single eye made us. I just want to be strong and tell about god but keep freezing up when I do even to my own wife in fear that shell think im stupid. Im weak its almost pathetic. I do question my salvation and doubt as well im like the worst christian of all time I want to change but I dont hear gods voce or see a direction ive prayed but have no response so I have lost faith and looked to other religions. But never felt like they were real or man made. The truth is I need advice on what to do. Ive been saved since about 12 and im 22 and I feel like I havnt grown at all

 

[seeking Christ]

Your family needs Spiritual direction, and you to be their Spiritual leader. Your recognition of your own weakness is what will give them their strength, once you're "plugged in" to God such that you know His leading. Never lose that!

I was married at 22, and turned down the chance to get ordained shortly before that so I was very grounded in the Word at your age. It'll be tough to gain that in your position in life now, but working from home is GREAT, and a help for that.

Read a chapter of Proverbs every day. Tomorrow is what, the 15th right? Read chapter 15. Guaranteed something there will be applicable tomorrow! It has 31 chapters, so this formula works every month. Don't be afraid to tell your family you're not sure of certain things, but speak your heart anyway. Being open to correction from your wife is a HUGE part of keeping the channel of communication open, and keeping the relationship what it should be. The Bible says LOTS of things about that, but all of it is really pretty simple: love her, cherish her, be good to her. And wish her happy Valentine's Day! (Kidding)

Stay in touch, there's lots of good peeps here ...

 

[bling]

You and your wife can have a night out (many places provide baby sitting and a real nice free diner) by going to a local Alpha Bible Study since that are now everywhere. Just put in your zip code :
[FONT='Calibri','sans-serif']http://www.alphausa.org/Groups/1000065342/Alt_Home_page.aspx[/FONT]

 

[SkyBlade]

I'm sorry you're having those problems. I think for a start you should look for a godly church and take your family there. Im sure there is at least one friendly and welcoming church near where you live. It might be hard to fit a task like that into your busy life but it just may be worth it. Your family needs to get closer to Jesus; make Him more important in their lives.

 

[jared185]

Thats very true I have failed my family in that aspect I kind of put god on the backburner and family as a main thing. But how can I lead them when im so messed up when it comes to my faith. I know it isnt meant to be an easy road but ive really been struggling and it seems theres no relief. I guess im trying to get my own faith staightened out before I start with my wife and sons because I dont want to lead them down the wrong way or be viewed as hypocritical

 

[SkyBlade]

Thats very true I have failed my family in that aspect I kind of put god on the backburner and family as a main thing. But how can I lead them when im so messed up when it comes to my faith. I know it isnt meant to be an easy road but ive really been struggling and it seems theres no relief. I guess im trying to get my own faith staightened out before I start with my wife and sons because I dont want to lead them down the wrong way or be viewed as hypocritical

There's nothing messed up with wanting to get closer to God, which is what you're doing. I understand what you're saying though. Pray, read the gospel, thats what I suggest if you want stronger faith. They seem like obvious things to do but they may help! And like I said earlier, finding a godly church may help too because an experienced pastor can help lead your family down the right path. I will keep you in my prayers.

 

[lilmissmontana]

Ok I have ask questions on here before but I need some help. Why is it that I call on god (pray to him) and I despratly desire to be a christian but cant. I feel no connection yes when I pray things have happened such as prayer answered like when hunting and have a bad hunt after I pray things go right and I go to church and see people and how strong of christians they are about speaking to non believers. How come i desire to be as close as I can and really want to be a preacher and talk about god but I feel no connections to him. Im to scred to talk about him in public but in my mind I know exactly what to say. Long story short I asked god into my life but do not feel saved and the lack of a connection I feel has made me look into other religions. I know we just didnt show up here in a puff of smoke and I know we were created but I want to feel connected to my god why cant I feel that am I deceiving myself

you really touched my heart ... it's so hard, i think, to be a babe in Christ ... people expect all these things of you instantly overnight like it's that easy ... what you are seeking comes from searching Him out ... no shortcusts ... only time ... it comes a little at a time ... you have to want it enough to find the answers ... pursue them ... don't let up ... and again, it doesn't happen over night ... He says search and you WILL find ... He means it ... i know that for a fact ... i can even remember when i was embarrassed to tell people i wanted to know ... how sad and what an utter waste of time ... have you asked Him into your heart (no disrespect ... i just don't know) He is a gentleman and doesn't go where He's not invited ... ask HIm to lead, guide, and direct you to all you need ... He will graciously and lovingly and abundantly do that ... here's where faith comes in again ... for years i wouldn't understand a darn thing ... but a wise person once told me not to forget even if i din't understand becausde at some point another piece would come to fill in the picture ...in His time ... and that was one of the biggest Truths ever told to me .. it's hard to explain, but He only gives us what He knows we can handle ... and sometimes we don't agree with HIm on that ... also those times where we don't feel connected are strnght builders for faith and so many things ... i urge you to tell the Lord exactly how you feel always ... and wht you wish ... and then turn it over to His will ... trust me ... His will far supercedes us ... and then 7 yrs or so down the road like me you'll be sitting here helping someone you don't know .. Lord know we need workers in the field ...

if you need understanding ... ask Him
if you need HIm to clear the view that you may see ... ask Him ... if you want to feel Him ... ask Him ... it will come ... honor HIm when these things come ...


may the Lord bless you on the Way ...

 

[trulyconverted]

Long story short I asked god into my life but do not feel saved and the lack of a connection I feel has made me look into other religions.

If you do not feel saved then it is probably best to continue on to ask God until He does save you.

I can positively say that when God saves someone, He lets them know especially when God puts His Spirit in the person's heart to dwell there (Imagine this Great, Great God indwelling in our heart, in the main part of our being - we would certainly notice Him there!).

Everything is under God's sovereignty. Everything happens for a reason. All in God's time.

It is good to note that you are trying and searching.

We can do whatever or join any group but only the Lord Jesus can gift us with His salvation. He is the only One who can save us.

We cannot buy, grab or steal it. We can only ask Him for it. And wait until He gives it to us. God bless.

 

[If Not For Grace]

Being a Christian is not about being perfect (it's about knowing someone who is). Growth takes time. Open yourself up to receiving and study and you will grow in the word and the work of the Kingdom. We learn and grow at different rates, it's not a good idea to compare ourselves with others. God is not afraid of your questions. Sometimes we have to unlearn some preceptions we might still be holding onto about God before our conversion. God is not out to "getya" nor is He a magic genie for granting wishes. It's His will not our own we are to seek. It's His plan and we are a part of it. We do our part and He does His.

One thing I've learned is that God loves for you to seek Him and when you do He reveals Himself to you "Little by Little" so that you can truly grasp and get to know Him on a personal level. This is what we are to do first..Put first things first and the rest will follow and fall into place.

 

[paul1149]

Jared, I actually think you're in a good place, though it is very uncomfortable. You have awakened to your spiritual needs. You see your life with a greater perspective now, and you are painfully aware that somehow changes need to happen.

Since you’ve turned to God, the next step is to believe that He is not out to punish you or hold you back, but that He wants you to prosper in Him. Keep abiding in faith, and in His peace. That will be a protection to you as you find your way.

Do whatever you can to find the right door to walk through – the right church, godly friends, a Bible study, etc. Finding the right brothers can make a huge difference in you spiritual growth and ability to hear God and feel His comfort.

But when you’ve done all you can to solve your problem, and if you still are up against a brick wall, it's time to return to the stronghold of God and rest in Him. He, not us, is the Author and Finisher of our faith. He will complete the work He has begun in us. He has called us, and He will bring it to pass.

If you can leave the troubling aspects of this problem behind, and move forward in a more confident faith, you'll be well along toward the solution.

 

[jared185]

Thank you all seriously you all have helped a lot. I trust god I guess thats y I ask for his protection or help when I need it I just want a closer relationship. More or less like the prophets in the bible did. I want to feel him more. Honestly I was under the perception that since I was a christian I should be understanding and less angry and id try so hard not to do things wrong or be angry over something that when I did do that I was like well im not a good person I keep doing thngs that God would not agree of and I would really get down on myself and quit trying. But honestly though I want to feel him so bad like hes sitting beside me or have a dream with him just sitting with me. I obviously do have doubts about somethings I was taught I want the doubts I have to disappear. Also what is the best bible to read ive had a little difficulty reading kjv anything close to that but a little easier to read

 

[paul1149]

I use theword.net bible program, which is free, and there are many free Bible modules available. My main read is the ESV. But I often compare verses with the Smith Literal, the ISV, NET or Holman's. The program also has dictionaries and texts in the original languages for word studies.

Those doubts will clear up. The main thing is to keep walking with Him and doing what he shows you. If you do that, He'll work the rest out for you (Prov 3.5-6; Ps 37.4-5)