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rt I came into this forum hoping to meet other Christians. I told everybody very clearly that I speak bluntly and to the point. The welcome was wonderful and very encouraging. The problem comes this way. I make a post, on any subject and the result is a target on my back. People do not discuss, they attack. So I answer in my usual lovable way, and I get reported for being insulting. (Did you not read my profile?) I address a girl, female, as 'girl' and its degrading, disrespectful, insulting? What? Would it be insulting if I called my wife, 'Wife' (She loves that by the way) I tell someone they need to listen to the Word...How is that bad. Well the upshot of all this is this; I don't need the stress. I'm recovering from a nasty bug..Heart attack....so, I'm taking a sabbatical from this group. I need a rest after such a short time with this group. I'm amazed. We'll see you someday. Glorify God in all your doing. By the way...I met a man here named George. He was nice to talk to. I like him. I met an Amazing Horse too. Witty, smart, and spicy in his talk (not bad language lol) He is worth knowing. and a lovely lady named Willa oh yes! Marilyn (I hope I spelled her name right) Both these Ladies are real, not plastic. People could really learn from these women. Talk to you another time.

There is no universal salvation. Without Christ there is only eternal damnation. It really IS that simple. Read Scripture to know this is true. As has been quoted by another poster, the Bible is clear.....nothing has been left to chance. "He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life." - 1 John 5:12

I do enjoy this presentation on the subject : https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/spurgeon_charles/sermons/0239.cfm A Sermon (No. 241) Delivered on Sabbath Morning, January 16th, 1859, by the REV. C.H. SPURGEON At New Park Street Chapel, Southwark. "Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated."- Rom 9:15 The good man has a little different approach to reconciling why God loved Jacob and hated Esau. I think it worth a read regardless of the already held conclusion anyone may have on the subject, for the man is a man of insight relying upon the word of God and not his reasoning to justify his conclusions. He takes the approach that there are two questions rather than one to be asked, and that they require two answers not one. Kind of interesting to me so I share and encourage a reading of his sermon on the subject.

Well, we are in this world. You are going to see all kind of opinions on a Christian message board. Some may make a person angry because they do not agree.

Our Lord Jesus loves and died for everyone in this world. God is love. In 1 john it's says God is love. Can the love of God ordained some to be lost without a choice ? Does that make sense? The bible does not teach predestination for some to go to hell. It teaches that God wants all men to be saved. It teaches Christ died for all sinners. If God is love then why would he preordained some poor soul to the lake of fire. The good news is he does not .love would save someone from the lake of fire. God is love. He does not want anyone to perish but that all would receive eternal life through the son of God Christ Jesus. Praise God.

Hi Carolina; Everybody is born with a fallen nature since the fall of Adam and Eve. Christ came to redeem us from the power of sin over our lives. Christ Jesus spoke a lot about the importance of forgiveness. Christ Jesus while being crucified said" forgive them Father for they do not know what they do. Christ Jesus said: if they hate you, know that they hated me first,be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. All of us have been corrupted one way or another through the sin that has permeated the world. When people are hurt and have not been healed form their hurts and traumas, they seek to go ahead and hurt others so to spread their hurt around, If you react to their hurt by keeping resentments over them. they have won. They have succeeded in implementing in you their very own seed of hate/fear. Don't allow them to succeed at this. follow Christ and His way. the answers are found in the new testament. Pray to God for guidance. For sure when a group of people or even one person in a group of people like in a workplace setting notice someone who is innocent, vulnerable, they will go and try and test how vulnerable that person is. A predator is always on the look out for to find a victim that it can corrupt and instill its sin nature into them. The best solution is to not show a reaction to those who are trying to hurt you. And withing yourself, to just learn to forgive them on the spot and let go of any feeling of resentment that may try to come and take hold of you. When hostile people see that , that they cannot get to you, they end up leaving you alone. These hostile people need Christ in their lives. Silently pray for them and keep asking God for guidance and protection .

And again, John 3:18-21 & John 3:36 here is all crystal clear. "Thus I told you that you will die in your sins. For unless you believe that I am he, you will die in your sins.”" John 8:24

Thank God for The Holy Spirit! A man (a mere man) that ascribes Infallibility, or for that matter Inspiration or lack of it, should tread very carefully I think. Thank God for His Holy Spirit! Thanks God for HOLY SPIRIT.

I don't follow Calvinism or Arminianism either...I follow Christ...two fruitcakes in a tin

Good bye Denadii God bless.

Question: "What is the Christian view of yoga?" Answer: For many Christians in the West who don't understand the history behind it, yoga is simply a means of physical exercise and strengthening and improving flexibility of the muscles. However, the philosophy behind yoga is much more than physically improving oneself. It is an ancient practice derived from India, believed to be the path to spiritual growth and enlightenment. The word yoga means "union," and the goal is to unite one's transitory (temporary) self with the infinite Brahman, the Hindu concept of "God." This god is not a literal being, but is an impersonal spiritual substance that is one with nature and the cosmos. This view is called "pantheism," the belief that everything is God and that reality consists only of the universe and nature. Because everything is God, the yoga philosophy makes no distinction between man and God. Hatha yoga is the aspect of yoga that focuses on the physical body through special postures, breathing exercises, and concentration or meditation. It is a means to prepare the body for the spiritual exercises, with fewer obstacles, in order to achieve enlightenment. The practice of yoga is based on the belief that man and God are one. It is little more than self-worship disguised as high-level spirituality. The question becomes, is it possible for a Christian to isolate the physical aspects of yoga as simply a method of exercise, without incorporating the spirituality or philosophy behind it? Yoga originated with a blatantly anti-Christian philosophy, and that philosophy has not changed. It teaches one to focus on oneself instead of on the one true God. It encourages its participants to seek the answers to life's difficult questions within their own consciousness instead of in the Word of God. It also leaves one open to deception from God's enemy, who searches for victims whom he can turn away from God (1 Peter 5:8). Whatever we do should be done for God's glory (1 Corinthians 10:31), and we would be wise to heed the words of the apostle Paul: "Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise" (Philippians 4:8, NLT). A Christian should exercise caution and pray for discernment regarding involvement in yoga. https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-yoga.html

we are to test all things said. SO lets test MISS MUFFET by JESUS Own words and see if she passed the truth test or not. will their EVEN be Christians who are not saved on that day. I say SHE IS RIGHT , and not few , but MANY of them will not make it. FOR on that day MANY shall say LORD , LORD , did we not do many good works IN YOUR NAME did we not cast out demons IN YOUR NAME..............and HE shall say unto them.......depart from me , you who worked.......I N Q U I T Y For JESUS gave us many words to live by, and by the POWER of HIS SPIRIT this is easy not heavy. Here is why they did not make it.........WHY do you call me LORD.........and yet DO NOT the things which I command you. Also this............... MY WORDS will be YOUR JUDGE on the last day............. let that sink in a bit. MISS MUFFET IS CLEARED . SHE HAS SPOKKEN TRUTH.

I don't because think of this. If people can will be saved without Jesus. Then why did Jesus have to go to the cross. No if you don't have Jesus you don have life.

Hi. I have taken a step back from this place as well. I have not been posting as much as I normally do. I am forever offending or upsetting someone on here. So I know where you are coming from. Most of the time when I log in here I say to myself, "I wonder who is mad at me today." Those of us who do not go with the flow of things get a good lashing. So you are not alone in this.

Looks like they had a good time and didn`t worry or get upset.

I would say a heart attack is a really nasty bug, Denadii. Bummer. I know it's hard not to lose it when you just want someone to understand/see your point. I usually leave the keyboard in the middle of some reply's and go out to my shop, read a chapter and contemplate a little, go back to the keyboard, delete half of it, and try to improve my bedside manners. Not always successful though. It's only inevitable when you get a bunch of young and old bible students together, and most went to different bible teachers growing spiritually, so there has to be some differences of understanding. When I see that little bell at the top of the page, glowing red, I don't know if I hurt somebody's feelings or someone enjoyed my thoughts. But we're all on the same team, or should be, so I'll express my regrets for your leaving, and your heart issue, but pray you will bounce back soon and come out fighting. (Berean style) "Who received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.", and many of them believed. May God bless you, Denadii My prescription for stress............ Php_4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Each of us has a cup to drink en route to our DESTINY. We will swallow the full dregs, and though it kills us, we shall live. Yet it shall not be us, but Christ living in us. God takes things to another level as we press through into a new place in Him. Transitions are healthy and good for us. When we allow ourselves to be stretched into a new place, we will experience fresh joys on the other side. SEE YOURSELF WITH THE CONFIDENCE OF GOD'S STRENGTH Imagine awakening every morning with the confidence of God's strength in you. And this strength in you according to His wealth, according to the riches of His glory, according to who He is. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13 Could it be that God has brought you to this place and positioned you in the midst of all the world has to offer, so you can make a declaration about Jesus? What's holding you back from being all that you can be in Christ Jesus? ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

http://www.9news.com.au/national/2017/09/21/06/51/big-w-christmas-tree-renamed-shoppers-fuming Much ado about nothing? Personally I'm cross about it.

They cannot remove Him from our hearts... And that is what really matters, that He is in our hearts. God bless you!

OK, I'm not talking about your post. You are free to post, I don't see a reason to start a discussion about this (your post).

I am told that lately too. Unbecoming for Christians. They will learn that you can disagree without being harsh. So unloving.

Wow, how unusual, a video that is thoroughly scriptural, and not speculation, interpretation, nor opinion. Just the facts ma'am, just the facts!

That's sad and it reflects badly on this group.

Well that's sad - its always sad when someone leaves. God Bless.

Thanks hmbld. I appreciate being encouraged. My next series that I am preparing is `Islam rising.` I aim to show what is happening in the Middle east and why, as well as my opinion who is a strong contender for the A/C, the Peace negotiator. Mmmmmm Blessings, bro, Marilyn.

Perhaps you have a sex addiction. I think you need to ask Jesus Christ into your life to be your Lord and Savior and ask for forgiveness of your sins. God can't be mocked. We ask for forgiveness but then we try our very best to not commit that sin any longer. We can not continually ask for forgiveness and repeatedly commit that sin over and over. If you have not gotten therapy for your issues that would be something you should consider. You may lose this husband that you have now.

Man, that is a BIG ol' boat-load of heresy. Chock fulla junk!

We overcome regardless of the enemy's strategy because of who GOD is. We can rest in the revelation of who He is as we focus on Him. Make the valley you are going through your "secret place of worship and intimacy" and watch Him fight for you and turn things around. God is committed to releasing victory to you in any season of your life regardless of whether you are in the valley or on the hills. "We use God's mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments." - 2 Corinthians 10:4 (NLT) "But speaking the truth in To those beginning their spiritual journey, God reveals Himself as Father. The picture is of a loving father embracing and reassuring his children.love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ." - Ephesians 4:15 After knowing God as Father He goes on to reveal Himself as Warrior, "The LORD is a warrior..." (Exodus 15:3 NIV). The picture is of a warrior training recruits for battle. To those who know God as both Father and Warrior He reveals Himself as Consuming Fire, "For our God is a consuming fire" (Hebrews 12:29). God is "from the beginning," that is, He is eternal. He has no beginning and no end. The picture is of an all-consuming reality (Song of Songs 8:6). When we know Him as Father, we become secure in His love. When we know Him as Warrior, we become strong in His might. When we know Him as Consuming Fire, we become one with Him in wholehearted union. QUESTIONS TO ASK MYSELF:• Is God specifically revealing Himself to me as either Father, Warrior, or Consuming Fire? • Is there anything in you that resists knowing God as Father, Warrior, or Consuming Fire? • Are you growing in the knowledge of God or are you resisting the change He desires to bring in your life? Mark 11:24 - "Therefore I say unto you, what things soever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them." Affirmations: I KEEP THE SWITCH OF FAITH TURNED ON. WHEN I BELIEVE I RECEIVE -- FAITH IS RELEASED. I DON’T HAVE TO MAKE IT HAPPEN. I DON’T HAVE TO FEEL IT HAPPEN. IT JUST HAPPENS. THE REBORN SPIRIT IS MADE THAT WAY. Mark 5:36 - "Be not afraid, only believe." ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

The Law Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. Romans 3:19-20 And The Christ Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. Romans 3:24-28 Love, Your Brother Joe

Dear Member "Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! Deuteronomy 6:4 (New American Standard Bible) It Is Best To Listen To The Holy Spirit Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus be cursed," and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:3 (New International Version) And To The Master Of Our Souls Therefore the Father loves me, because I lay down my life, that I may take it again. No one takes it away from me, but I lay it down by myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. I received this commandment from my Father." John 10:17-18 (New Heart English Bible) Rather Than The Babble Little children, it is the last time: and as you have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. But you have an unction from the Holy One, and you know all things. I have not written to you because you know not the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth. Who is a liar but he that denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denies the Father and the Son. Whoever denies the Son, the same has not the Father: he that acknowledges the Son has the Father also. Let that therefore abide in you, which you have heard from the beginning. If that which you have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, you also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father." 1 John 2:18-24 (American King James Version) Of Men, I Think Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: “I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god." Isaiah 44:6 (English Standard Version) ~ Be Blessed Beloved Of The KING The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them. Numbers 6:24-27 (King James Bible) Love, Your Brother Joe ~ Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever. Psalms 119:160 (King James Bible) The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword and the Christian’s charter. Here too, Heaven is opened and the gates of Hell disclosed. Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents. From The Inside Of My Gideon New Testament

Hi, I just wondered if anyone had ever heard God speak to them? In that still small voice like the bible says? Would be interested to know if it is possible.

There are two steps to something like this. The first is taking steps to mitigate the damage to prevent as many long-term consequences as possible. It sounds like you are actively doing that. The second is trying to find the root cause(s) of this. Why do you want or need or crave the attention so badly? Until that is dealt with, you are probably going to struggle with this. I'm not a counselor or anything, just someone who has read a lot and observed a lot of people over the years. I'm just going to toss some things out as food for thought and meditation. Sometimes, the behaviors that have our attention are symptoms and not the real problem. Sometimes the real problem is buried deep within us and we cannot see it for what it is. We can do many things to reduce a fever, but until an infection is dealt with, the fever will keep returning. Sometimes we have spiritual wounds inside of us that affect us. This could be from emotional hurt from abuse or neglect or deep loss or grief. The sort of things that either keep us awake at night or the sort of things we bury away and refuse to think of. These are things that God needs to take us on a path of healing. Often, we may need to forgive someone for something. Sometimes we need to realize being a victim was not our fault. Sometimes it would be helpful to talk to an experienced Christian counselor or pastor for some things. Sometimes we have spiritual lies embedded into our hearts. There is a world and enemy that hates God and hates every beautiful creation He has made and does not want any human being to become what God wants them to. We often end up with lies and accusations embedded deep within us that we are not what God created us to be. At times when we are young and spiritually vulnerable, those lies get stuck inside of us and become reality for us. You are worthless. You are stupid. You are ugly. You are clumsy. You can't do anything right. You'll never amount to anything. God hates you. You deserve everything that happens to you. No one could ever love you. You deserve to be alone. What start out as accusations and lies start to become parts of our identity as we believe and accept them. I am worthless. I am stupid. etc. Sometimes, we need to let God shine His light and truth inside of us to see these lies for what they are and reject them. I'd suggest praying that God would show you what He wants to change inside you. Maybe a few questions to ask yourself and prayerfully consider. When do you remember first feeling this way as a child? How do you feel without attention? Do you struggle with negative feelings of some sort ( for example, feeling worthless or ugly or stupid or lonely)? Do you have any particular phrases that you constantly repeat to yourself? (Here are few real ones I've heard people talk about. I'm a loser. No man could ever love me. God made me stupid. I don't know what I'm doing.) Are there particular scenes in movies, books, songs that you hear, paintings that you see, whatever, that cause an unexpected strong emotional reaction that catches you by surprise? Sometimes those types of things unexpectedly put a mirror to our face and something inside of us peeks out at us. Sometimes these are positive things, the person God created us to be stirring to life and trying to break out of the masks we put on. Sometimes these are negative things, the pains and lies that are buried inside that sneak out. Ask God to bring to your attention to what He wants to work on. Sometimes we may need to talk to a Christian counselor or pastor for assistance in this. God created you to be special person made to reflect His glory in a way unique to you. You need to learn to walk closely with God as that person He created you to be. You need to learn how spiritual disciplines (such as Bible reading, prayer, meditation, getting together with other Christians) work best for you. I suspect you may be like me and need to move from season to season with such things. Some people can get onto the same spiritual schedule for these things for decades and grow. I can do something (e.g. bible reading) in an intense way for perhaps 4 to 6 months and then I don't get much out of it anymore. Then I need to move to the next thing. Over the years, I've learned how to follow God's leading as to next thing I need to be doing to grow. Learning to embrace variety has helped me grow.

I would suggest changing your workplace. Perhaps get into social service line or a job that will help put you away from those type of temptation. But never stop working or even if you stop, make sure you get yourself occupied with something because i know all too well that "an idle mind is a devil's workshop"too. Staying home is not advisable for those who gets bored and restless easily because that's where it all starts too. Instead, channel your energy and attention to those unfortunate souls who needs love like the orphans or elderly people like in old folks home. I mean these are just suggestions but see what is applicable. But since you pointed out that your workplace is a major source of temptation, i would recommend you to switch jobs. Dont be discouraged. The fact that you are even seeking for help and advice is a good start for some transformation. I do salute your husband for being man enough to still love you and help you. He chose to not "criminalize"you but instead he sees you through Jesus's eyes where he sees that you are probably struggling within and in need of compassion and empathy. They say true love conquers all. He has certainly displayed it, from what you have described him. I would certainly encourage you sister to honor and respect him. Show others that he is your man and you are his only. And kudos to you that you are making some changes of telling him everything, being honest and making an effort of being transparent. I pray you will experience the renewal of the mind and heart by the power of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus's name.

The deadness and feebleness of the saints today is largely due to their receiving and following the truth with their minds. This is nothing but the law. In spite of the exactness of the letter, it is absolutely not of the Holy Spirit. Our understanding deals with conceptions and images of divine things, but it cannot reach the real life of the inner spirit. He fills only the pursuing hungry and thirsty soul with spiritual impartation. All things come into being through the Word. It is the Word made alive in our hearts (through repeated affirmation and meditation), germinated by our faith, that strengthens the real life of the believer's spirit. STRENGTHENED WITH MIGHT THROUGH HIS SPIRIT "That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man.....that you may be filled with all the fullness of God." - Ephesians 3:16,19 The Holy Spirit now lives in your inner man to strengthen you and help you to do what you could not do without Him. God's kingdom authority, dominion, and majesty should be reigning in every believer's inner man. Paul urges us to be so deeply rooted, so in union with Christ, that the impossible becomes possible, and the invisible becomes visible. "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might." - Ephesians 6:10 ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Basically trying to learn godly ways of living with an alcoholic husband who is a womanizer without becoming angry or numb.

Thank you for this video, Interestingly enough I was attacked terribly concerning my belief in Enoch and what he revealed. I believe he is one of the witnesses. For to witness is to give an account of what you have already seen.He along with St John saw the end times and elect. I believe they will be arriving on the seen very soon. The revelation 12 sign in the heavens speaks to all of this. May The Ancient of ancients (BOOK OF ENOCH) have mercy on you and I pray HIS MANTLE BE UPON YOU. Right or wrong on certain things there is no malice in your heart. You are sincerely seeking . And have a humble contrite heart toward Christ. God Bless. f

I wrote kind words because I sense you are a God-fearing kind person whose only desire is to please God and help bring more people to a Biblical understanding of God's words. I may not always agree with you, but I respect you. Granted, some Old Earth Creationists (OEC) want to interpret the Bible to prove their points just as Young Earth Creationists (YEC) do the same thing. And don't get me started on the Flat-Earthers and the Hollow-Earthers. And then you have the Theistic Evolutionists. One thing you and I have in common is the creation of man by God, as Moses outlined in the Bible beginning at Genesis 1:3. You don't see any gaps in Moses account of creation, I do. The Biblical text demands a Gap that's why the intentional change of words from create (Bara, create out of nothing) to make (Asah, make out of existing materials) was made by Moses. With a false understanding of Creation, other Biblical passages are at risk to be misunderstood, and I don't just mean Genesis 6. May I always be open for correction, in Jesus name. God bless. SObG

It's not an easy day, well it never is but today is especially hard, as are most weekends, not sure why it's always harder on the weekend, probably because it's our chance to spend more time together and perhaps enjoy life and the enemy doesn't want that so it gets more intense. I don't know and right now I don't really care, I know I'm not suppose to complain and just want out of the trial but endure it with grace and thanksgiving but it just goes on and on and on. I don't know what I'm suppose to do when somebody so close is in so much turmoil and it effects almost every decision we make together, which is pretty much everything I do. I keep praying and trying to wait patiently for God to get through and do whatever needs to be done but it's just the same every weekend, every day, sometimes it's not as tough as others but it always come back with a vengeance and things can turn ugly at any time. I'm just tired, I'd like somebody to just talk to about all this but I've never found a brother in Christ that will listen and try to just have compassion. Why wouldn't God at least send one person I can talk to. I know I know I have Holy Spirit here but when I'm discouraged and doubting like this I don't feel His presence anyway so it doesn't help much. I'll stop, this isn't a good rant, I'm sorry.

Firstly, we can all agree to disagree agreeably and civilly. It's not heresy or a Salvation issue to have a different hermeneutical view of Scripture. Personally, there's few things I'm on the 'fence' about pertaining to Scripture, but the young / old earth 'theory' is one of them. Excellent scholarly and academic commentaries have been written on the subject by both young and old earth adherents. Based on the preponderance of the evidence, the order of events in Genesis Chapter 1:, the literal Hebrew meanings of words like; form, void, darkness, deep and light (Gen 1: 3)... I would have to lean towards the old Earth point of view. It's crystal clear the heavenly host (ben elohiym) witnessed the creation of the universe (Job 38:4-7). One thing is for certain; for every argument for a young earth, there's a counter response. One other thing seems apparent in my studies. Prior to the 19th century and the advent of "the lie" of Darwin and evolution. I don't find much support for the old Earth theory. An interesting and comprehensive book by the scholar G. H. Pember, titled Earth's Earliest Ages, is a must read no matter which side of the equation you support and believe. This question is in the top 100 or so of the 742,601,337,551 questions I want to ask the Lord when I meet Him. Good thing eternity is eternal, or else I'd be hogging all your time to ask the Lord questions when we meet Him

I've found that often (not always but often) sin, addictions, compulsive behaviors, and other such things are really symptoms of something deeper. Until God deals with the root cause (or causes), the symptoms will continue to be there. For example, consider someone with a broken leg in a cast. I could condemn them for not being a very graceful dancer or not being able to go jogging with me. No amount of will power or effort or what I tell them is going to make up for having a leg in a cast. Once the leg heals and the cast is off, they could get back to dancing and jogging. Or if I have the broken leg, I could condemn myself for not dancing well or jogging enough, but until the cast is off, I won't be able to very well. Spiritually speaking, many of us, through abuse, neglect, spiritual trauma and hurt, spiritual attacks, and other such things, carry some deep wounds and trauma. Some of us carry wounds and "broken legs" from childhood that have never been properly addressed and healed. The symptoms of these things often come out as sin and compulsive behaviors that we never seem able to shake no matter how much will power and repentance we try to summon up. The issue is that God needs to heal us of "the broken leg" so that we can dance again. Sometimes, we unintentionally pile on additional guilt and frustration on people (and ourselves!) because we try to deal with it through our own will power, dedication, commitment, discipline, etc. My wife and I once joined a church in the aftermath of a nasty split. 5 years after the split (and the church was on its 5th senior pastor since the split). It was full of gossip, backbiting, anger, political maneuvering, and it was very unhealthy. It seemed like every other week some type of drama was unfolding. I had never seen anything like this in my life (and never have since then). In hindsight, almost all of the problems stemmed from one simple thing. Many long term members of the church had been deeply wounded and felt betrayed by the pastor during the original split. This pain had turned into bitterness. A few of them (including a couple board members) felt like they could never trust another pastor again and this spread throughout the church. No amount of reasoning, confrontation, or anything was going to do much until God dealt with their pain and unforgiveness toward someone who had left years earlier. The thing is, they had truly and deeply been hurt badly. These were good people that had their church life pulled out from under them and basically been left on their own to deal with it. Unfortunately, a few very influential people (who'd been members for decades) carried a root of unforgiveness and bitterness that spilled over into a lot of people. They (and those of us who joined later) were so focused on the symptoms of the current church turmoil being the "real" problem that nothing could be resolved. Sadly, it took a couple funerals years later (and long after we gave up and left) before the church calmed down. The challenge is that it is not easy to see what this deep root cause is in others (and often ourselves). We need to get to know people and listen a lot. We need to be patient, ask wise questions, and not create more damage. We often need God to give us good discernment about what is and is not the real problem in their lives. We want to make sure that we have the same priorities for "fixing" someone that God does. Sometimes the most obvious and troubling symptoms are not the main thing God wants to work on first. So having said all of this, I'd counsel asking God to give you discernment and wisdom to see what God wants to do in your friend's life. I think there's a good chance that the smoking and drinking were primarily driven by something else. If that "something else" is not addressed, simply stopping the smoking and drinking will leave that "something else" in place and it will manifest itself again in some other undesirable behavior. For example, did she start smoking and drinking because she was lonely and felt that would give her more friends and acceptance? Was she lonely because she feels she's worthless? What happened to make her feel worthless? Was there a time of vulnerability in her life when the enemy used someone (perhaps a parent in a moment of anger) shouting "I wish we'd never have had you" to bury a lie deep into her that she's worthless. I'm NOT saying that is what the case is for your friend! But these are the types of burdens and crippling lies of the enemy that many of us carry hidden within that become broken legs that prevent us from dancing in the freedom God wants us to. I just gave those questions and example to suggest the type of unfolding process and questions it takes to dig deeper into what God really wants to work on. There is a spiritual enemy in the world that wants to embed lies and hurts into our lives to cripple us. It often takes God's light shining in our lives to see it. God wants to heal those broken legs so we can dance and run and jump in freedom before Him.

Shalom Kaityn, First of all, welcome to WCF and I've gone ahead and changed your status so you can reply easier. Whenever I give advice, or instruction, I have to realize that God's Spirit is at work! I realize, first, that if you want to LOSE an ARGUMENT or DISCUSSION FAST -- then offend the person you're speaking to! People seem to FORGET that as soon as a person is OFFENDED, you've already lost the argument. This is what Proverbs says, Proverbs 18:19 A brother offended is like a strong city; and their disagreements are like the bars of a fortress. So when presenting something, you want to watch body language -- if their hands cross over as they are talking to you -- they are "defending themselves". Be sure not to POINT ... pointing shows "judgment", but rather talk with OPEN arms. Why ... because open arms is a means of saying -- I don't have anything hidden here ... and I'm not judging you. As soon as you see that you are shut down in body language ... then pivot and save it for another day. But if you have the opportunity ... then go as far as the Spirit of God would lead you. Next, you want to present issues as a servant of God would. 2Ti 2:24 And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, 2Ti 2:25 correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, 2Ti 2:26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will. Notice that THEY recover themselves ... we simply need to be sure to present truth -- as Jesus did -- FULL OF GRACE and TRUTH! We don't need to shy away from the truth, but we also need to be GRACEFUL when presenting the truth. I trust that you'll keep us up to date with what's going on in your life, God bless, George

God, in His word, has laid out the standards for our behavior. In Deuteronomy 28, He laid out the blessings we would receive for obeying His Word. Then He laid out the curses if we did not obey His Word. A careful reading of Deut. 28 will give an individual a good idea of what to expect for obedience and disobedience. But we live after Christ died for us, so we are in the age of grace. However, sin is still sin, and God has NOT changed His stance on sin. So when one of His children disobeys, we activate the curses of the law. Since Jesus paid for those curses, we have grace made available to us, IF we repent of our sin. If we do not repent, then the curses of the law (laid out by God) are allowed to happen to us. While it is NOT God directly punishing us, it IS Him indirectly because we activated the disobedience clauses of the law. NOw, if we repent, Jesus' blood washes us and we are restored to righteousness (I John 1:9). But often sin has physical consequences. These consequences can be physical, mental, emotional, etc. Depending upon the sin, God allows the consequences of that sin to bring us pain. By this pain we learn obedience. God loves us, so He won't put trials on us that are too hard for us. Remember that discipline is not always as a result of mistakes. Paul talks about a runner training for a race. He disciplines himself in certain ways so that he may physically compete at a higher level. If we want to become more godly, our discipline may include hours of bible study and hours of prayer. As we become more knowledgeable of God, we become aware of the function of the Holy Spirit. When we connect with the Holy Spirit, there may be other disciplines we learn to become more like Christ. So, just as others have said, discipline depends upon the sin and sometimes upon the mission to which God has called us. When we are young in Christ, we learn more through the pain of our mistakes. As we learn and mature, God then disciplines us by teaching and training methods because we no longer need punishment type discipline. This discipline is highly individual. For you, He may have called you to a ministry that requires that you not drink alcohol in order to execute your calling. I might be called in a different area and be "disciplined" go give up television to achieve what God has for me.

God doesn't discipline us from anger and He doesn't lose His temper like we see on earth. God's discipline comes from His love for us. He loves us too much to remain in sin. Even though it is sometimes painful. God allows us to experience trials, temptation and tribulation so our faith will be tested and we will grow in maturity as Christians. His purpose is sanctification.

Jesus said He would never leave us or forsake us. But He has withdrawn fellowship with Him. It's like He is no longer talking to us, guiding us, comforting us, and we are no longer aware of His presence. A sense of panic sets in as we try to figure out what we had done wrong. Often it was due to a bad attitude we had allowed to foster like self righteousness. He also allows us to reap the consequences of our stupid choices. We get a ticket for speeding even if we are "just" keeping up with traffic and no one else gets one. Or we get into a fender bender while texting. Then something else goes wrong--we cut ourselves with the kitchen knife and need stitches, a trip to the ER and a lot of expense, until we realize that God is trying to get our attention. We realize we had been neglecting bible reading and paying attention when the Holy Spirit was trying to caution us about what we are doing. We had been neglecting our relationship with God and a little rebellion had crept into our hearts. All I can tell you is that I identify with the phrase in Hebrews 12: Heb 12:11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Heb 12:12 Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, That is exactly what we feel like--a whipped puppy! Knocked down and then plowed under. Humbled and pliable in God's hands. All of this is for the purpose of removing SELF. Self effort, self will, and doing it "my way". Pushing the envelope to see how much we can get away with rather than eagerly obeying the law, waiting on God and allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us.

Believe it or not... the answer lies in relationship of individual with God Himself! All that can or will occur here is relegated to a secondary importance and is also formed into that which passes away without any recollection of such in eternity... Literally setting aside all things in this place and seeking God with all that we are in mind, will, emotion is key to overcoming this begin we all have began in. You will find when you actually begin this statement will make much sense but not until- you cannot fix sin nor understand it's purpose it simply must be put from all reasoning and reform your thoughts, values, life completely from The Word of God. Prayed... Love, Steven

Oh free that sounds heartbreaking. Sounds like you still love him and are wishing he would change. It also sounds like he needs someone to set firm boundaries with him. I would suggest seeing an experienced counselor, and finding a christian support group for women in your situation. I know of an online one if you want to message me. Will keep you in prayer

As Wingnut has said, prayer prayer prayer. With all the stories I've heard about wives seeing the turnaround in their husband's lives, prayer is the one constant. Sometimes it take years or even decades. Sometimes it never happens. But it is the Holy Spirit who moves and primes the heart for God, not us. Prayer is often all we can do...but we should never think of it as some last, desperate, weak resort. Prayer has very real power.

Freebird, My dear, you have a real challenge. While the alcoholism is a terrible burden to bear, you cannot help but be angry at the womanizing because that tears at the very basis of your marriage. And feeling numb is not a desirable outcome either because if you become numb to your husband, you will have a tendency to become numb to God as well....and that is NOT good. According to I Corinthians 7:14, " 14 For the unbelieving husband has been sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife has been sanctified through her believing husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy." That means that, as a believing wife, you are now sanctifying your husband, which is a high and holy calling. Just because you sanctify him though, does not make you responsible for his sins (alcoholism and womanizing), nor does it relieve him of his guilt. When you sanctify someone, you dedicate them as holy to God....which means that God is now responsible for them. He gets the job of fixing them...which is His job anyway. Now, because of the nature of your husband's sins, he is transmitting a LOT of sickness to you in the form of stress and potentially in the form of physical or emotional abuse. When you are trying to be holy and pure, that sort of thing really discourages you. My response is that you first find a church with people willing to just pray for you and love on you. That will feed your spirit and soul and provide a source of divine love "with skin on". That love is supposed to come from your husband, but he is not giving it to you...so the church should. If you are experiencing financial or physical trauma as a result of anything he is doing, please seek counsel from a pastor, lawyer or even a Christian psychologist. You DO NOT want to stay in an unsafe relationship. Assuming you are "working through", you need to spend time every day in the Bible. These are the words of God Himself and they will provide food for your soul and food for your heart. Besides, God blesses those who read and study His word. That will build your knowledge of godly ways the quickest. If there is a bible study or women's bible study available once a week, put that on your schedule. That will do 2 things: first, it will provide you with fellowship and prayer support and second, it will provide you with knowledge and learning. Last, find a way to be thankful. Start with the little things, and build up. God appreciates it when we are thankful. I am sure there are some blessings you have or even things you are working on. Gratitude often leads to joy, which is spiritual strength, which is what you need to deal with your husband. As I am sure you have found out, nagging him about his "issues" isn't really working. So here is what you do. First, hold him accountable for things that he is responsible for. Tell him once and only once (unless it is life threatening). After that, take the issue directly to God and speak your mind. God can handle it. Remind God of His promise to fix your husband. Let out all the anger you have for your husband on God. When you have all the emotion out, wait in silence and let the Holy Spirit fill you with the sweetness of His presence. Once you are fully sweet, you can deal with anybody. Stay focused on God even if NOT doing something might cause the rent to be late or something similar. When things fall apart, you will have a clear indicator of what he is or is not going to do. At THAT point, you protect yourself and do what you must. REMEMBER: the goal of the exercize is to win your husband to Christ. If that is not possible, your husband will make his own decision. Be blessed. We are all in prayer here.

Thanks for sharing Abby, my wife agrees too. Most people, even Christians, when faced with a reality too horrible to understand reject it and the messenger as well. We all build a world in our minds that is suppose to protect us from the evils we see all around, even by taking them out of sight completely. However the more we trust in God the more we can look at reality and understand that evil doesn't have the upper hand. I can only imagine the horrors you've faced but I know they are small in comparison to the protective power of God's Love. Unfortunately most church's are still very young in their faith, maybe from living such sheltered lives here in the US and other western countries. But the reality is evil is rampant all around us and will only get worse and worse until our Savior returns. I think if we stay open and make loving a priority we can mature together and create the church's needed in these fallen end times. That is my hope anyway, based on the assumption that there is a whole lot more of us deeply hurt people out there that just hasn't opened up yet. God bless you Abby, I'll keep praying for you too. Thank you also for your prayers Marilyn, and everyone else that continues to pray for us, your truly a blessing.