Why I perfer this forum Vs. church attendance

[bfloydo]

 

                      ** Sorry for the title typo should be this not is... cannot edit I reckon**

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    These are some of the reasons I thank God for you all and this forum....

I have fixed the title for you.

We are thankful for God's mercy, grace, and love. We are thankful for you.

 

God bless,

GE

 

 TY my eagle friend for correcting my mistakes...... may God's winds be under your wings so that you may fly higher than an eagle.... as in the song... "Wind beneath my wings"

[*Zion*]

 

 

                      ** Sorry for the title typo should be this not is... cannot edit I reckon**

 

   With all the back and forth concerning church, I thought I would give pause to thank God and those that participate and maintain this site. I want to share some of the reasons for my preferring this vs. the average church in hope you will know my thanks is sincere and appreciated:

1.) I cant be judged by appearance --- only my words

2.) I can come here anytime, any day

3.) I can seek or say what I want, when I want

4.) No one will put an offering plate before me nay, the only thing offered here is a gathering of seekers, helpers, and words for all to discern for themselves --- a non-tainted purity I enjoy

5.) No one will tell me this is what We believe, so if you want to be a part of this church so should you believe or do

6.) I don't have to fake sing, as I sound like Herman Munster and wouldn't want to offend any that God has blessed with a good singing voice

7.) Its easier to keep my tongue in check, as I more carefully weigh the words I write ( Its no coincidence to me that a very large part of the NT is letters to others ) I bet those that wrote those letters could not have imagined there future impact...maybe some of the words shared by us here will have impact beyond what we imagine!!

8.) I don't have to listen to a long winded sermon, that I cannot even raise my hand and ask a question if I have one, or feel bad for the poor fellow who has fallen asleep in front of me

9.) I don't have to feel guilt in knowing most of the money I give does not go to the needy --- I don't know when or how this changed but, I believe the money Jesus collected during his ministry mostly went directly to the poor, or needy (except what Judas stole)

10.) No one will compel me to pray,,,>>for me if its not heart felt,sincere and even off by ourselves in our own closet... it is deceitful and not heard .

 I know my repentance or prayers have been accepted when they are accompanied with my tears(more goodness comes upon me than my flesh can handle... and God overflows my cup for the cleansing, comforting, and joy of my soul.

    I think best and most powerful verse in the Bible is also the shortest "Jesus wept"

11.) I don't have to worry about getting caught up in any gossip, which seems to be a common practice in many congregations

 

    These are some of the reasons I thank God for you all and this forum....

Yes,many of these are good.Their are some people who have very,very serious social phobias.They struggle to go outside of their home.And many do not.This is a mental illness.These people could never go to a Church.God knows our hearts and what we struggle with.

 

 Truly you are right, and I now confess I have been judged by doctors to be 100% disabled in part for my struggles with suicidal/ clinical depression... I hate this world with a passion but myself even more so..... Thru Gods strength I do get out to give to those in need, to go and have fellowship and Bible study from time to time( as my courage permits).... when I go to a church I hate most of all being given special treatment(even though I know it is from mercy and compassion).... for though many may see me as weak, pitiful, or without strength .... I know that true strength comes from within and God has given me thick skin to endure and hold tight to the end....not for self but, for others to see the snares they set for themselves in judgment of others.

 

 

I don't know everything you feel, but I know you do have courage and strength and I admire that.  Not many people are brave enough to admit their faults; pride gets in the way many times... not many people have the faith in God to step into what God has for them - that's why He marveled at the centurion's faith, and asks when He returns if He will find faith on the earth...

 

The fact that you still go to church even though you've had a bad experience with church says something.  It takes a great deal of courage to love those who hurt your feelings - whether they know it or not/ admit it or not... Be encouraged, you're doing great, considering the doctors' diagnosis; which when compared to God's healing tough pales right through anyway!

 

I pray that that the suicidal thoughts and depression will cease completely in Jesus' Name.  I pray that you will be filled with more of God's faith and courage and love, as the Day of the Lord approaches; as we are told (in a nutshell) to love people but to be not conformed to this world. 

 

PM any time:)

 

In Christ,

Z

[bfloydo]

 Ty, for your prayer and kind words. I must tell you that I consider the hardships of depression a blessing in may ways, for it gives me a greater understanding to help others in need and it keeps me humble in spirit. Let me try and share a feeling...though my words could never show the Loving Lord I've come to know....when my Love for Life in running dry he comes and pours his Love on me.... these words are changed a little from the song " I would give everything I own " by Bread   Music is a great comforter and gift from God psalms are songs, David played...even in Cain's lineage we see invention of instruments... I take refuge in music that moves my heart and soul, and there the Lord refreshes and gives me strength to carry on.

 Blessings & Peace

brother B