Homeward

Yes, it was very interesting. Thanks Zayit.

Dearest EmeraldGirl, although at this time it may seem to you God does not care...He most assuredly does. Here is a hug from Him, to you, through me. Dear one, you are, and will be in my prayers.

Looks like you've been thinking some very profound thoughts there, buddy! God Bless!

Although longing for heaven is natural in a world where evil and satan are allowed to dwell (for a time), I gotta agree with Bob on this one. Peace

I think denominations differ depending on what country you live in. I am an adherent at a baptist church and it is nothing like the way I've heard some of the American posters describe it. Pastor preaches love, congregation practices love and it's very diverse. Ditto, and I am a Baptist who happens to be an American. And I am shocked that the childs parents would think that. Jesus loves children and does not want them held back from him! Have they not read and understood Mark 10:14, Matthew 19:14, Luke 18:16? Again, I am shocked and am praying about it.

Iryssa, you are right. If someone is an alcoholic, it would be very unloving to drink in front of them. And if someone states they are struggling with something it would be unkind for us to put a stumbling block in front of them.

Oh, and there's another one. "You don't like movies or television. Wow, you must be weak in the faith."

Ah, yes, the judging, and the labeling. Works in either or any camp one chooses to dwell. All anyone has to do is pick a label, and apply to any of the brethren who's simply stated opinion does not line up with theirs: Fanatic, Gnostic, Pharisee, Fill in the blank ____ with any label of ones choosing. Works insantly to sooth bruised egos, and ruffled feathers. And if that doesn't quite do the job, toss in some sarcasm. Pride...it's really something else... God is the judge of our walk. Praying for us all, here.

You're right, Gerioke. There are tons of obstacles in the walk. Landmines if you will...ie., pride, fear, depression, rejection, jealousy, anger, guilt, loneliness, lust, etc., etc., etc. And then there's Satan throwing his fiery darts. Aaargh, it is difficult! But be of good cheer brother, for you know we have a mighty and concerned helper in our God. Our Father, Jesus, The Holy Spirit, the word, prayer.

Conversion is instant. Growth is ongoing. Grace and Peace to you, Yomo

I agree. What I'm looking for in a church is irrelevant. I have my preferences, don't get me wrong, but I no longer belong to myself. My desires have been laid down at His feet, surrendered. I want for His desires to be my desires. I want to go to the church that God has in mind for me to attend. No matter what it offers or doesn't offer, big or small. I believe too many people try to find a church that makes them comfortable, which is understandable! (Not to say that a church should make a person uncomfortable.) I'm just saying that wherever the Holy Spirit leads me is where I want to go. That God be obeyed, reverenced, praised, glorified, served and honored in spirit and in truth is what matters the most. It happens in large and small churches where people are seeking Him diligently. <{POST_SNAPBACK}> You guys took the words out of my mouth.

Wow! Totally wonderful post! And the wisdom, love, and encouragement to one another from each of the brethren in these posts is awesome. Thanks all!

I see no reason for us to brawl, here. Each of us can explain our thinking, without coming to verbal fist fights. I can't imagine our Lord approving of that. Come let us reason together.

Thanks, Ovedya!

I wonder what God meant in verse 16 when He said to Satan... 16 Through your widespread trade You were filled with violence... Does anyone have any idea what God meant by widespread trade? Also, in verse 18 God said Satan's trade was dishonest. What was Satan trading? What was he doing? Is this something Satan is continuing to practice here on earth?