Melissa7

I appreciate this post on the Holy Spirit, tyke. It was interesting to read. It made me realize my own lack of understanding regarding Him. I know mentally that He is part of the Trinity, but it's difficult for me think of Him as a separate part of the Godhead. So, can we pray to Him directly? I just don't get it. I thought that the Holy Spirit is the means by which we pray to Jesus or the Father. In fact, I find the Holy Trinity as a whole to be confusing, but I accept it because that's what I've been taught. It's definitely a mystery to me that I may never understand. I agree with Hikermom. It's sometimes hard to know if it's the Holy Spirit leading us, or just our own minds. Thanks for sharing this...it definitely inspires reflection.

Amen! Well-said Mystic

Thanks Hazard...I'm working on it.

Thanks Gandalf, for your words of wisdom and experience. You are right. Sometimes I mourn the loss of who I used to be in Him. But that is in the past. For now, I will continue to try and get to know Him better and let Him take care of the rest!

Thank you Hidden in Him. Your advice is great too. You and Gandalf are good spiritual warriors. With this kind of encouragement (which I receive all the time at Worthy), I'm sure my faith will grow. I had written you a better reply but it disappeared, and I was frustrated, so that's why this is so short. Everything you said in your comment is helpful, and I did read the bible verses you presented to me. I really don't tolerate them now, don't like them, and don't let them bother me too much. Nevertheless, I prefer to be safe than sorry. God Bless You!

Thanks so much for your reply Gandalf! I appreciate that you took the time to share some of your personal experiences with me. As I read the above quote, it reminded me of the OT (as you mentioned), and the fact that many of Israel's forefathers would pray blessings over their children. Just as God would bless them. The men of God in the ancient world, such as Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob; and even women such as Sarah, who bore a child in her old age - all of them gave and received spiritual blessings. So even though doing a blessing on a home or a person may only be "symbolic", I believe that when it's done in faith, it has great spiritual significance. I both liked and laughed about the prayers and blessings you did when your daughter was a teenager. What a great idea! Lol, I bet it was kind of cool to be the dad who always knew what she was up to! My discernment regarding spiritual things (and the presence of unwelcome things) used to be pretty good. In fact, I used to think it was a gift. Sadly, after more than a decade of being one of God's rebellious daughters (kind of like a teenager, huh?!), my discernment has faded a great deal. Yet after reading your comment, I'm more determined than ever to get back on a regular prayer and bible reading routine. I agree that our victory over the enemy has more to do with our faith in Jesus Christ, than with what words we choose to use. I know it's the spirit within me that does the actual battling, not my flesh. With your encouragement, and that of everyone else here, I know I can get back to the heart of Jesus. I won't give up and I'll keep trying! Thanks again for your suggestions. I will do it this weekend. God Bless You!

Hello Brothers and Sisters, I would like help in finding appropriate bible verses to use in two specific situations as outlined below. Situation #1: I would like to memorize bible verses and/or phrases that I can say out loud that would drive away any demons or evil spirits that may be present at any given time. I'm aware that as believers we have the authority to do this, but I'm unsure about what to say. I want something that would have an immediate effect, something that would repulse entities enough to make them leave (even if it's temporary). An example: Last night, I was taken off guard by my dog barking and growling at a corner of my living room. Nothing was visible to me. Nonetheless, I spoke out loud, confidently and with strength, that Jesus Christ is my Savior; that He is the Son of God and came in the flesh, and died on the Cross and was resurrected again. In Jesus' Name, I commanded (it, them?...I just said 'you') to leave my home and go back to where they came from. Then I prayed out loud to the Lord to send His angels to remove them and protect us. Then - just to be sure - I began singing praise songs out loud. Before I began singing though, my dog had calmed down and I felt better. In the above example, some of you might say that I did the right thing. However, the incident was so unexpected (I was in the kitchen cooking), that I just sort of winged it. I would be more comfortable if I had a solid scripture verse to recite, or a heartfelt phrase. The next time I have to deal with the enemy, I want to be prepared. Situation #2: I would like to perform a spiritual blessing on my entire home. I would also like to bless my granddaughter's room on a regular basis. Can I do this myself or do I need to find a pastor to do it? If I can do it myself, what scripture verses should I use? Do I need anything else besides my bible (like blessed oil)? How is blessing a home done? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ** Please keep in mind that I've only recently re-dedicated my life to God, which is why I'm asking for help. And in case you're wondering, no, I don't think there are demons running amok in my home! If there is, I don't pay them any mind unless they are doing something that makes me aware of them. I'm older now and have found that the enemy likes to attack me through my thoughts. Which I'm learning to capture and change. However, my granddaughter has dealt with demons since she was a child, due to family members around her being into the occult. She has seen them and been physically attacked, although those incidents were several years ago and thankfully only happened a few times. I don't believe she can see them anymore, but strange things have happened like noises and things moving...again, rare but enough to notice. And yes, she has opened doorways herself; mostly because of her unbelief. I have forbidden her to have certain things in the home but, being a young teen, she often doesn't listen to me and sometimes she lies to me. My main concern here is not for myself, but for her. She was not raised in a Christian home, and thus only knows the basics about God. In fact, she was abused by her mother which is why I now have custody of her. She has PTSD, phobias, and lots of emotional issues pent-up in that mind of hers. Anyways, sorry this is so long and thanks in advance to anyone who can advise me as far as Scriptures go.

I don't understand why we even need "teen/young adult" or any other special bible versions to begin with. I would think that a teenager of average intelligence can handle reading the regular bible. I've heard of young children being able to read the KJV and having no problems understanding the language used. Apparently, bible publishers think our youth are incapable of understanding the Gospel message unless it's spelled out to them. I disagree. The Truth found in God's Word is exactly what they need to hear and read! With public schools and an immoral society teaching them about "political correctness" and that "anything goes", teens need to know what God says about sin, His loving solution to sin (via salvation through Christ), and the way that we should live. They also need to know that there are dire consequences to sin. Sugar-coated, watered-down, humorous, or sarcastic "study bibles" are not necessary. The KJV, NIV, and ESV are all very good translations and can be purchased at any big box store. Real bibles are what's needed! Our youths' souls are at stake. They need to hear the truth, whether they like it or not. We shouldn't be treating them like babies, or trying to lure them by getting on their level.

Honestly, I used to have a problem with what happened with Esau and Jacob. I didn't understand how God could allow such a deception to happen. It felt like He was being deceitful Himself. But this couldn't be true, because it doesn't fit the character of God. I've come to let it rest in the knowledge that God knows all and knows what He's doing. I agree with what the other members have posted about Esau: that he didn't want the birthright, that he willingly sold it to Jacob for a bowl of stew (of all things!), and he just didn't seem as faithful to God as his brother was. Also, I think the plan hatched between Rebekah and Jacob were of their own doing...I don't believe that God would put deceit into their minds. Being human, and desiring something greatly, those two thought of the idea to trick Isaac on their own. For people new to the bible, at first glance, this story seems very unfair indeed...especially viewing it through a "worldly lens". Yet, the more you read the story, the more it makes sense. Especially, the part about Esau giving his birthright to Jacob so easily; simply because he was hungry. If he truly cared about it, he wouldn't have done that. As others have said, God looks at a person's heart, and Esau's heart wasn't with Him. So in the end, we should simply trust in God and His decisions! He can see past, present, and future all at once, so only He knows how things should be.

Only two wrong

William, many years ago I used to be afraid of the same exact thing! Please listen to what these wise members have told you, because it's the Truth. You think that the Holy Spirit has left you, but that's false. HE is the one drawing you to find answers. He led you to the youth pastor, and He's led you here, to this site. Do you think that was an accident? Or that, perhaps you found Worthy on your own? No, you were guided. I am new here too. I had been away from God for a long, long time. Didn't care about anything. So what made me suddenly, out of the blue, decide to join this site? It wasn't me doing it...it was the Holy Spirit working within me, unconsciously or sub-consciously. When we know we need help, that is Jesus calling to us. I've heard that the Lord never gives up on us...He will continue to lure us back to Him until the day we die. That's why it's so important to repair our broken relationship with God. The only reason He wouldn't take us back, is if we totally and completely reject Him; turn our backs on Him and stay that way for our entire lives. Listen, I just recently accepted salvation AGAIN, because I didn't think it was working. Even now, I don't feel any different, and I'm struggling to pray and read the Bible. But one thing I'm not allowing myself to do is doubt and worry (well, I do sometimes, but I force myself to strike down those thoughts). We can't depend on our feelings because they change constantly. God's love for us doesn't depend on how we feel. His love for us is constant. You should visit here at Worthy often, William. Most of the members who comment in these forums are mature, long-time Christians. They have the experience to guide us properly. It's by their own years of struggling and doubts that have made them wise, and they understand where people like you and me are coming from. God uses them to help and encourage others in their Christian walk. So don't worry and don't be scared. You are safe! Whenever those thoughts come into your head, immediately distract yourself! Walk outside, listen to music, read the Bible, start singing or yelling. Whatever you need to do to get your mind free of negative thoughts is what you have to do. Okay? I may be an inexperienced believer, but I know what suffering is. I'll be your friend here, and so will many others. May God bless you and comfort you!

Please know...Anyone to whom I did not respond to, don't take it personally. There is a lot of information in this thread, and it took me awhile to read through it all. I tried to at least acknowledge everyone with a reaction. I learned a lot through this discussion, and I'm no longer worried that these few verses apply to me. Thanks to all of you for that! Also, @Yowm pointed out that I pulled the verses of out of context with the rest of the book. He's correct. However, the verses themselves seem out of context. To me, they stood out like a sore thumb. First I was reading about Jesus being our High Priest, and that He's the perfect High Priest because He knows what we deal with as humans. Then I'm reading 6:4-6, and it jolted me. The important thing is that I now understand what these verses mean, and who the audience was. A big thanks to all the members who've commented so far.

I agree, and your opinion shows a different perspective on the topic. I don't believe I have ever met anyone that meets this description. Only atheists and they don't count in the context of this discussion. Thanks for commenting, this is a good reply!

Thanks wing, for your thoughtful reply. I understood what you said about the parable of the sower, so I chose not to quote your entire comment. However, the above two sentences are worth repeating, and may also help other new believers understand some of these things. I'm very relieved to know that backsliding or losing our closeness to Jesus, due to circumstances such as: loss of a loved one, depression & other mental illness, health issues/chronic pain, or simply the pressures of life, are not what the Bible is talking about. As far as I know, I have never made a conscious and deliberate choice to betray my Redeemer. To me, that is just going too far. And even though I would be frightened of the pain, I would indeed die for my beliefs, if it came down to it. I would think that, for any believer there isn't a choice. Who, in their right mind, would want to spend eternity in Hell? Not being in Heaven with Jesus after I die is the saddest fate I can imagine. Burning and being tortured is scary, yes, but the absence of God's presence for all eternity is even worse. Sorry for rambling on here. I'm grateful for your reply, wing, and glad to know that my understanding of certain scriptures are sometimes incorrect!

Thanks for reminding me of this! I was reading Hebrews for another reason altogether and when I came to Chapter 6:4-6, it kind of stopped me in my tracks. Then worry followed. Thank you Christine! I appreciate the encouragement

Thank you Gandalf, I found your reply very helpful. I have heard of people instantly changing into a different person the moment they were saved, and I thought that's the way it might work. Your explanation makes better sense to me, and I'm relieved to know that just because it wasn't some mind-blowing, angels singing experience, that I'm still okay. I also liked how you spoke of us each being unique individuals. For example, I am very stubborn and skeptical. Have always been this way. However, there have been instances in the past where I do feel that the Lord has used my natural skepticism for His purposes. I am fairly good at recognizing false teachers in churches; as well as in daily life when I think that people are being insincere. My intuition (or the Holy Spirit?) are often right. On the other hand, it causes me problems when trying to tell someone in truth and love, that their favorite preacher is wrong! Anyways, thanks again.

I have always been concerned about the meaning of the above scriptures. My understanding of it is that if a person was once saved, but then later loses their faith or falls away from God, they will be unable (not allowed) to repent and come back to God. If a person keeps falling down often, and then prays again for salvation several times over a time period, is this what is meant by "crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace?" I recently re-dedicated my life to the Lord (again) after 15 years away. It's verses like the ones above that cause me distress; thinking that God won't accept me back. But then, I've never felt truly "enlightened", or some of the other descriptions used. Perhaps I was never truly saved to begin with? But that doesn't make sense since I've had spiritual experiences in the past, that only could've come from the Holy Spirit. I'm confused by these few verses. I would be grateful to anyone who could explain them in an easy-to-understand way.

@OneLight...I'm sorry that you feel this way. I am very new to Worthy, have only been here a week, but so far, I find it to be uplifting. Everyone that I have come into contact with so far, seems to be genuinely caring and helpful. Having said this, as a fresh set of eyes, so to speak, the only things I have found that bother me is the constant debating in the forums over doctrine. If we are to follow the bible, then there should be no arguments. The Holy Bible clearly speaks for itself. There should only be discussions clearing up any confusion over Scripture. For example, for new Christians or seekers who have sincere questions about what the bible teaches. I also feel that atheists should not be allowed access to all areas of the site. It's unlikely that they will change their pov, and, for the most part, they only like to argue and cause discord. Just my two-cents!

Let me begin by saying that my heart goes out to you and your mother, turtletwo. I read your previous post about pulling the plug but didn't feel comfortable leaving a comment then. Absolutely, I believe that people in a coma or a vegetative state can hear loved ones speaking to them. Studies that measure brain waves have shown this to be true, as well as testimonies of hospice care workers, family members, and psychologists. I also have my own story to share in a moment. I researched this, and found that people who are in a coma due to brain trauma (which can occur due to heart attacks, like your mother), usually stay in the coma-state for two to four weeks. If they don't awaken, they then move into a vegetative-state coma, where their eyes can open & close. In these two coma conditions, their brains are still working. They can often hear and sense things going on around them, but are unable to respond. After reading this, and knowing that you made a promise to your mom, I think you should give her at least four weeks to respond before even considering pulling the plug. Never mind the doctors! If insurance will cover it, or you can afford it, I would consider putting her into some type of convalescence home, as opposed to the hospital, where she can receive palliative care. Back to the hearing: Yes! You should talk to your mother and touch her if you want. She will hear you, and that will comfort her. I would caution you to never speak with doctors or others about her condition at her bedside. Leave the room and shut the door to discuss medical issues. Sit close beside her bed, near her head, and speak gently, directly into her ear. No need to shout though - she will be able to hear you in a soft voice. I would say that any Scriptures that are uplifting would be suitable. If she liked to read certain types of books/novels, you could read those too. Reading the local newspaper (nothing graphic or sad) to her is another idea. Finally, aside from telling her you love her, praying with her, etc., you might find a radio and set it near her head, tuned into the kind of music she likes. Or better yet, you could place earbuds in her ears. You know your mom and her tastes better than anyone else, so just put on your thinking cap and find ways to let her hear sound! My Experience: My dad died from COPD and had dementia for the last years of his life. When he was in a nursing home, receiving Hospice care and dying, my mother called the entire family to come visit him. I remember taking one look at him, and, hearing his agitated breathing, just knew it was his time to let go. I had previous experience working in nursing facilities, and I also think the Holy Spirit was prompting me. The rest of the family was leaving and I told my mother (dad's spouse of almost 50 years) to go home...knowing that she wouldn't see him alive again. When everyone had left, and it was just the hospice nurse and myself in the room, I got to work. I turned the lights down, sat on my dad's bed and began to speak softly into his ear. While doing this, I was holding his hand and gently stroking his hair. I told him that mom had left, and that me and my brother would always look after her. I spoke of private things that needed to be said between us. I prayed the Lord's prayer with him and also prayed to Jesus for him. As I talked to my dad, his breathing relaxed and his agitation calmed. Finally, after about 20 minutes, he passed away. The hospice nurse said it was the most amazing thing he had ever witnessed. He praised me for speaking in such a soothing voice. And he said that my dad hadn't shown the usual signs of immediate death, like mottled feet. But I knew. Somehow, deep inside, I knew that my dad was frightened and fighting death. So I did my best to help him pass peacefully. It was truly a moving experience, one that I'll likely never have again. I feel that God was there with us, and that it was his gift to my father and myself...two stubborn souls that were too alike for us to get along when he was well. I apologize for this being so very long, turtletwo. But I KNOW that my dad heard me. And I know that your mother will hear you! So please, absolutely DO speak with her! No matter what the Lord has planned for your mom, you can help her to feel less lonely and isolated while in her coma. My thoughts are with you, God bless you both

Hurray! Only two wrong on this one. Yay me

Well, I only got six right, but that's a good start. I love quizzes, puzzles, crosswords, etc. This will be a great way for me to refresh my memory. Thanks for starting this club, Jade!

Hello! I'm new here, my name is AnnMarie. I just adopted a puppy, and so I thought this would be an interesting read. But wow, "interesting" is too weak a word for this post! Cabo's story moved me deeply, and you added just the right amount of scripture - chosen thoughtfully. Not too much to become preachy, just enough to make me think and ponder on what God expects of us, and the love He so freely gives to those who are obedient. Thinking about the big picture from Cabo's POV, made me realize how lost and disobedient I truly am. Wretched. It's too bad that I don't have the character traits of a fine dog like yours. Sometimes I think that God created humans to be too smart for our own good. Often, the distractions in life cause us to lose focus on our Creator. Thanks for sharing - this 'broken' woman appreciates it!