wayoverbogey

That's all. Any computer gurus here? I'm uncertain what to do. Running windows 7 and latest version of java. The screen will download, I can even read your writings/messages, but I can't type anything. No other websites giving me trouble. Believe this has to be a java issue. thanks for any help whatsoever wayoverbogey

I don't know Mel personally, but his father is phenominal. His dad is Henry Blackaby, and together they also wrote "Your Church Experiencing God Together." Chances are his Father will come and speak to your church as time progresses. Mel is a nice guy, and I served with his brother Norm. They have a neat family, and chances are you will learn much. God has done some amazing things through this family. Hope this Helps, Wayoverbogey...daniel

Are there any other news posts to confirm this story apart from this link? I can't find it on drudge, or any other ap news agency? Surely this would be a hot topic and no one else has reported it? Sounds a bit strange.

What an interesting thought. I never compared Bible flipping with witchcraft or sorcery or new age thinking for that matter. I don't think that applies very well in this case. Yet, I admit, to pray each time and anticipate that if you drop your Bible, or expect an "answer" to your prayer may be haphazard to say the least. The best way to interpret life is with Scripture, and the best way to understand Scripture is to study it correctly with respect and of greatest reverence. I would compare your Bible flipping as equivalent to "casting lots" as they did in Acts (1:26). This is the last recorded event that they casted lots. Why? We don't know except soon after Pentecost came. It's as if the Holy Spirit became the counselor, guide, and comforter (John 16:4-11) that Jesus said would happen. In proper interpretation of the Word there are always two understandings to be observed: What was the writer's intent as directed by God, and what is God saying to me today through His Word. In many cases the first is easier to find than the last because in the latter we might be trying to find God's specific will for our life or circumstances. So, can God use Bible flipping? Why not? But why did He not use casting lots, or why didn't Christians (Paul, Timothy, Silas, Peter, and the rest )rely upon casting lots again? I believe it's because they had the Holy Spirit. We do too, and along with Him we have the complete Word of God at our disposal. Is Bible flipping or dropping witchcraft, I think not. But is treating God's Word in a rather disrespectful way or by "chance" responsible, I would say no to that choice either. Personally, I have found that God meets us where we are, and He has even used just "opening the Bible" to guide me. But usually, the passage had a direct relation and context to my circumstances. In other words, I might have read Joshua 1:8-9 when I was fearful over a challenge. And so God was tellling me "Don't be afraid." I knew God was speaking that day. Just this week I was reading Ps 27, and 25, a key message that kept popping out was "Wait on the Lord." I got the hint, God is telling me to be patient with what I am praying over. There are a couple of other resources that are wonderful in helping with this. One book is called Reading the Bible for All It's Worth (can't remember the author). And another one is, Hearing God's Voice by Henry Blackaby. The best way to seek God's answer after a time of prayer is to review and know God's Word about that specific issue. If that doesn't address it, then pay close attention to what God is having you read through now i.e. Psalms, Matthew, or whatever book you are reading through. Watch your circumstances, listen to the Holy Spirit, speak to good Christian friends whom you respect, and trust that God will do as He said "You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart," Jeremiah 29:13. So, here, and in other places God promises that His Will can and will be found by those who seek Him. He'll make sure of that. Hope this isn't too long. Besides, you wouldn't drop a road map hoping that you'd discover the right way to get to where you needed to go. Course, God can use anything He chooses, even Bible flipping from time to time. Daniel...wayoverbogey

Keilan, Tough stuff. II Samuel 2:30 basically says God honors those who honor Him. So, pray like this: "Lord, thank you for the woman you are orchestrating me to marry, and help me not to miss her when you bring her into my life." I prayed that since I was 16, and at 21 I met her. It was fireworks, and I can't say I always believed. But, God answered. We've been married for 13 years, have two children, and it's not always roses, but God is faithful. I don't know if you have any friends. If not, the only way it happens is to be a friend. Reach out to somebody, but don't expect them to remove your depression or solve your problems. I tend to do that, but only God can do that. I believe at times God may verify His presence with feelings, but the Bible says He's everywhere. Matthew 28:19-20 tells us He's with us "always." So, He's here, right now, always. Listening, moving, even answering prayer, that is prayer that comes out of a life that is obedient to His Word and seeking Him, not just His Blessings. The fact of the matter is, life is crappy sometimes. Relationships fall apart, jobs are stressful, and cars breakdown. I think as a Christian it's irresponsible to believe that we can just pray or read a scripture and our feelings should change immediately. I'm sorry you're hurting, but God uses pain. If not, then why did so many early Christians have to die for their faith. Paul says in Phillippians (I think that's were it is), that his suffering has encouraged others to continue the walk. Suffering--yuck. Pray not only for a future spouse, but pray that God will grant you His perspective, and He'll empower you to believe it and feel it. And don't stop praying until you do. Until then, may God keep you. Trust Him, even with this recent stuff. Keep the Faith, Wayoverbogey.