Re: Worker worship « Result #1 on Sept 23, 2009, 10:44pm »
Worker worship.. I just began to really realize how truly wrong this is and how REAL it is and going on in this fellowship. Quite a few months back before I began to question my beliefs (that I was raised in) with great depth, I was given the yearly workers picture from convention. When the professing lady handed it to me, I remember the feeling I had in my heart and it was one of being disgusted. I say this because at that moment it really became apparent to me how people are worshiping the workers. And that I had been doing it too. It seems the pictures of workers are everywhere in people's homes, hanging up for everyone to see. It's one thing to have pictures of friends and family around here and there..but to have those whom you consider God's servants all lined up for a picture and given out so often... that is giving glory to the workers and taking away the glorify from God who deserves ALL GLORY forever!!
Not to mention the speaking lists that are sent out in e-mails which again are pointing straight to the workers. To see who is speaking so we can glorify them some more.
I say these things not to disrespect and hurt anyone else. Just convictions that God has given to me and I'm very thankful for. I just want all the glory to go to Him.
Joined: Jan 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 4 Location: Oregon
Re: post-professing feelings « Result #2 on Sept 12, 2009, 6:10pm »
jolson,
I've been there.
Yes, I felt a lot of mistrust. Huge. And at the first sign of lies would over react. But understandable for what I had been through.
Here are some things that helped.
1) Anger. Write down what I was angry about. If it was wrong for someone to do something to me, I confronted them about it.
2) Hurt. Confront the person who did evil to cause the hurt.
3) Betrayal creates a lot of mistrust. It takes good friends to start being able to trust more. I found it helpful to make a list of things that I wanted in a friend and expected of myself when being a friend to someone else.
I read my Bible to overcome and move on. I learned what the Bible said and didn't say. THis gave me stability and helped me get my life rebuilt.
It was created to be a safe haven for former 2x2 members, where: No one except registered exes can READ it. No one except registered exes can participate on it.
Today, one month later, there are more than 120 registered members.
The board administration is committed to protecting the privacy of all TLC members and carefully screens all applicants who wish to become board members.
Members must be an ex-2x2. However, not everyone who is an ex-2x2 is allowed on TLC. In other words, being an ex-2x2 doesn't automatically guarantee admission to TLC. Some restrictions apply.
Does the following describe your feelings?
Are you tired of all the bickering, fighting, insults, attacks, etc. on TMB?? Are you holding back on what you would really like to post…to avoid having to defend your remarks/feelings? For fear of being verbally abused? Or ridiculed? Does reading on the TMB all too often “disturb your peace” these days? Do you wish you really had “freedom of speech” on a message board somewhere??
If you choose to join TLC, please email me at truth@earthlink.net and let me know the User Name you wish to use and your edress and a little background, so that I can pre-approve your registration and it will go smoothly. Please type in the subject box: "RE: TLC REGISTRATION"
post-professing feelings « Result #4 on Aug 18, 2009, 9:27pm »
Hi I am working through my life's experiences. I quit going to meetings about a year ago now. I realize some feelings of hurt/anger/etc over realizing what I believed in isn't what it says it is. But, a lot of my feelings I realize are due to an abusive ex plus the betrayal of the friends through the divorce process. I am just wondering if I could hear from those of you who have worked through your feelings and "getting back on your feet in life" further than I have. Did you feel distrustful? What did you do to move on and overcome? God has shown me open doors and a support system and a new trust in Him. I am seeing things in the scripture now that I didn't before, and slowly I am gaining a foundation that will in the long run be stronger than I ever had before. I'd love to hear from those who have moved on, gained strength, and no longer are affected by the Truth as far as anger/hurt/etc from the pressure and criticism. I know time has to heal wounds in a lot of ways, but how we spend that time is important as to helping ourselves move up and on instead of letting ourselves sit and wallow in the past. My email is julie_1991@rocketmail.com Julie
Joined: Dec 2006 Gender: Female Posts: 565 Location: Canada
Re: What are you reading right now? « Result #5 on Jul 23, 2009, 8:14pm »
Hey...I didn't know anyone was posting over here anymore! Oh...The Shack was great! I loved it! I heard of "The Tipping Point" too, but haven't read it.
Right now I'm reading, "Why the Universe is the Way it Is," by Hugh Ross. It's quite incredible!
Re: Bringing about change « Result #9 on Jun 16, 2009, 6:17pm »
Someguy: Really have enjoyed your post. Having just recently left I can understand the frustration with change. I did try to talk about different issues with many before I left including two workers, but without success. Lots of things bothered me ie, founder, exclusivity, grace vs works, unregulated computers ok but not TV which is regulated etc etc. But yet some in meetings were going to a bar to watch games-ok by me but?? Workers when they stayed with us were leaving all the time to go play racketball with Y yearly passes- again OK with me but ?? One problem I had and others had I talked to was we gave our testimonies weekly but didn't really know the Bible , just the worker interpretation of the bible. 50yrs in and I was totally frustrated with all the double standards so I got out. Now I have heard the bible preached as I never have before. Still love all of them and still have close friends from our meeting,but just want to know Christ and worship him for what he did for us (grace not works). I'm rambling but OH how I wish there had been change to follow the bible. Keep trying and maybe God will open ears. Blessing to you
Re: How do you get past the anger? « Result #10 on May 25, 2009, 3:08pm »
Hi Julie:
It's hard to be perfect because when something or someone falls off the pedestal it's going to hurt.......the truth or way, can not be perfect because it is administered by humans......I'll email you.
Prayer Request « Result #16 on Mar 17, 2009, 7:40am »
Hello, I felt drawn to ask for prayer requests. I am still going through the court system dealing with the divorce. Because of the past hidden abuse issues and undiagnosed probably mental illness and/or personality disorder of my ex, I will continue to deal with difficulties. Last week my daughter threatened suicide and cut her wrist. I am thankful for answered prayers that she did respond positively to a counselor last week, but with her dad being so paranoid of counselors (according to him they give "worldly" advice) the kids may or may not be turned against the counseling by him. Please pray that their lives be ruled by God, not by their father. Please pray that they come to know the truth of Christianity and not be stuck to "the Truth" and against me now taking them to a "false church" that has been so helpful to us. I have a testimony to share about what evolved during the past two years and how I quit going to mtgs and the light and blessings I see now. I now am thankful for the betrayal of the friends because it helped me see what "the Truth" is really like. Thank you so much! Julie
Re: What are you reading right now? « Result #17 on Mar 17, 2009, 7:27am »
I am doing my second Beth Moore study now with a ladies bible study group. We are studying Esther, and last time we went through her Stepping Up study on the Psalms of Ascent. I highly recommend any Beth Moore study. I heard her study on Daniels is wonderful, too. I have been very spiritually fed from her studies.
Re: How do you get past the anger? « Result #18 on Mar 17, 2009, 4:38am »
The question here is 'How do you get past the anger?"
For me God has healed some, and in time He will heal me completely. I have learned to direct my anger at the people how betrayed me and not at God any longer. I have learned that God loves me very much and that he is leading me into freedom of any religious law to serve him in love. The anger for me is the betrayal of the friends testifying against me in court on the behalf of my abusive, mentally ill ex. I quit going to mtgs in August and have been attending a baptist church. I love it very much. I have faced the comments and shunning of many of the friends. Only a very few have remained friendly and nonjudgemental on the outside towards me. I have felt the hurt of the church on top of the hurt of the abuse and the divorce and the difficulties with my children through this all. It was hard for me to face that what I believed in for all my life isn't the "perfect only-right way on earth" or the foundation for me that I thought it was. As long as I now focus on the doors God has opened for me, the true unconditional love that He teaches, the truth of Christianity, I stay positive, strong, and the healing process continues. I am actually thankful now for the betrayal of the friends because it showed me how Christ felt when he was betrayed. And it showed me how much "the Truth" covers up wrongdoings in people so that the way can be seen as "perfect." My eyes have been opened to the dishonesty of what "the Truth" portrayes itself to be, and I am now reading the bible with newness of life. I have been absorbing it so much and seeing God's word in a whole new light. It has brought peace and strength, and I hope I can help others to see it now, too.
I am willing to share my story with anyone interested. My email is julie_1991@rocketmail.com.
'Twas the night... « Result #21 on Dec 24, 2008, 9:37pm »
'Twas the night after convention, when all through the house A worker was reading, as quiet as a mouse. His bible was opened up to Matthew 10, while gems from the platform were recycled again.
The elders and friends were perched at the table listening to some long-lost two-by-two fable. And mamma in her apron and hair in a bun, had just settled down, her kitchen work done.
When down from the landing there arose such a clatter, I sprang from my chair to see what was the matter. Away to the stairwell I few like a flash, Tripped up on the carpet and fell on my ash.
The light from the candle I held cast a glow upon a long, sullen face there below. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, but the quivering worker who was shedding a tear.
With a gasp and a sniffle, he showed me a page from a letter he'd read that he could not quite gauge. "Oh, friend, do you not know the history of your church?" With just that one line, I felt myself lurch.
More rapid than eagles his curses they came, And he cried, and whimpered, and called them by name. "Now, Irivine! now, Cooney! now, Walker and Propp! I thought that we were the one church, the top!
That we're one of many just might quickly diminish My faithful desire to make a strong finish! To the freedom of knowledge, I'll stand up so tall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
As for reasons why before the logic did fall, When they meet with an obstacle, claim it at all, So up from the minds, the first workers few, A few sleightful concepts, none which were true.
And then, in a twinkling, he came up the stairs, I was quite astounded, tho' he seemed unaware. As I held out my hand, and was quite shocked to see, A worker was smiling back, glad to be free.
He was cheerful (unusual!), his smile did glow, He entered the room and started a show! A bundle of letters he had flung on his back, Were quickly dispatched to the firewood stack.
His eyes -- how they twinkled! And winked! And cried! I knew just by looking he was so happy inside. His excitement probably could not have gone higher as he shrewdly deposited his tie in the fire.
The shred of the envelope he held tight in his hand, was simply forgotten as he crushed it like sand. He had a broad smile and a little round tummy, both fed quite happily with free food so yummy.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I joined him, in spite of myself. A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know we had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to the mantel, And threw in his letters, as the fire could handle. And saving one page for amusement's sake, He gave a right nod, and watched them all bake.
He sprang to the elders, his face was quite flush, And away he did tell them, "No need to hush! For Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! Not this ministry we've used on you like a knife.
He walked quickly away down the snowy drive, His quickened pace made him look really alive, And we heard him exclaim, as he made his goodbye,
"MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL, IT'S BEEN ONE HECK OF A LIE!"
Joined: Feb 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 856 Location: West Coast
Re: My new book about Revelation « Result #23 on Nov 24, 2008, 2:10pm »
I haven't approached any publishing houses, been trying to find representation. My other books were about poker, so I have no presence in this arena, and not having much luck finding an agent.
The book is mostly dialogue; I am seriously tempted to do an audiobook first, and "self-publish" with a recording studio by where I live. We have great acting talent in my area; I'd hire several voices. What do you think?
Dennis Jacobsen Charter Member Forum Moderator[M:30] member is offline
B&R, well indoctrinated, USA/Swedish ex-worker married, kids, axed in '86, free at last in '90!
Joined: Jan 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 219 Location: Castle Rock WA 98611, USA
Please? « Result #25 on Oct 14, 2008, 2:19pm »
As many (if not all) know, my wife, Ylva, is a Swedish citizen. In Sweden, one's 60th birthday (for both men and women) is a special event. She has expressed how she wished it possible to have such a day. Unfortunately, due to various insurmountable reasons, I cannot make Ylva's 60th birthday a special event all by myself. However it came to me that maybe I could ask those reading here who might wish to do so, to send her a birthday card for her 60th birthday on this coming November 8th.
Dennis and Verna Harper have invited Ylva and I out to dinner at a local restaurant that day.. If anyone living close enough to do so wishes to join (dutch) us on that day, it would be a thrill for her, and make the day even more special. Gifts are not desired nor expected in the least. It is the fun for her that I would like to surprise her with on that day... Nor do I want to burden her with any more work as she is at the very limit of her ability with her CHF, and yet, still working as a caregiver.
If anyone would like to join us and wish more details, please PM me for the time and location of the restaurant that day. Our children and grandchildren will be there. This is to be a surprise, so, please don't mention it to her if you should happen to see her or speak with her, until after the event on Nov. 8th. She does not come to read here unless I suggest it, as her time is very limited, so this place is safe for comment.
Her full name and address is:
Ylva Kersti Viveke Olsson Jacobsen, 804 Si Town Road Castle Rock, WA. 98611, USA
If some from outside the USA would be so kind to send a note, or card, it would be very kind. I will also appreciate any birthday responses for her from any of you as much as I know she will. Life is so short and it is sad that often we only get chance to see or be in contact with others when someone dies. This time, it would be while someone (Ylva, pronounced "yeee l VA!" a very soft "L") is still alive!!!
For those of you who do not know, her name means a feminine form of "Wolf" and is a very old Swedish name for a woman. That is why the emphasis is on the "VA!" in her name as a kind of warning cry, if what I've been told is correct. We have been married now for 37 years and she is one of the kindest people if not the very kindest person I have ever known. I'd like her "day" to be very special. Thanks to anyone who helps make it so, since there is little else I can do...
Dennis Jacobsen Charter Member Forum Moderator[M:30] member is offline
B&R, well indoctrinated, USA/Swedish ex-worker married, kids, axed in '86, free at last in '90!
Joined: Jan 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 219 Location: Castle Rock WA 98611, USA
Re: Salt of the Earth « Result #26 on Oct 14, 2008, 2:17pm »
In that day and age, salt was VERY valuable, as there were no refrigerators, nor canning. It was the source of preservation. For me, that is a great lesson in this quotation, not merely for it's savor. Today, salt cannot lose its power to preserve as it did in that day, because of it's present pure form, and our knowledge of the necessity to keep it dry.
Nonetheless, imagine if as a preservative, it could no longer preserve. It would be good for nothing whatsoever, even though some savor might remain. If those who believe are indeed the salt of the earth, then they were indeed that which preserved what the Lord brought, generation upon generation. Sad when there are those who do not accept who Christ is, and what He taught, there is no preserving power then.
Salt of the Earth « Result #29 on Oct 4, 2008, 11:16am »
I love those verses there in Matt. 5 about the salt and the chapters that follow as Jesus sat talking to his disciples on the mount.
v13 - ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, where with shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men.
Salt has a savor which is different than any other savor in all the world. Naturally salt brings out the savours of what it is put on. Spiritually, God wants his savour to be in this earth amongst the people here. This savour is a part of his people.
It goes on to say that we are the light of the world. This light should not be hid... but set on a candlestick so it can give light to all who are in the house that they may see your good works and glorify God which is in heaven.
Salt when used will still look like salt, but will not have the savour anymore. To me this savour speaks of the Spirit of God within his people. Without it, we are nothing. If we have it, we should not cover it up and hid it, but let it shine forth like a light unto the world that it might glorify God.
Over the years I have had discussions with those who called themselves Christians... and when they describe what makes them a Christian, they speak of all the good they have done for the poor and downtrodden of mankind. They definitely seemed like good people and I enjoyed our visits, but sometimes afterward, I would start reflecting on their goodness and wonder if that is all they had. In one instance I just happened to be sitting next to this couple and they ask me if I was saved... and I answered yes. They began to tell me how they were just coming home from a mission in Ecuador and how they had done so much and spent thousands of dollars there to help the poor. It ended up being that they worked at a christian radio station and had eventually gotten to be partners in the station. Now they were spending more and more time in other countries spending their money helping the poor. I admire those who are willing to do this type of thing. I have never had the time or money to do such.
Is this the type of thing that most christians consider to be the works glorifying God? These words about salt, light and works are in the beginning of what my bible calls the sermon on the mount. To me they are clarifying what the rest of those words are about, how we glorify God. How we live our daily lives. I don't believe they are talking about specific actions that need to be in our lives, but attitudes and standards. It seems to me that Jesus was showing that our righteousness should be more than the law, above the law, not just the law. Not limited to the law so we can point to what we have done, but our attitudes and the love and desires that drive us.
Guess I hit the wrong button when I was previewing this post, but wanted to add that I would like to hear any others views and what their thoughts are on these words and the rest of what Jesus said in Matt. 5,6,7.
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.
Re: Is it.... « Result #30 on Oct 3, 2008, 5:59pm »
A good question Dennis.
I have tried to limit my interactions with contentious questioning, and have tried to limit my questioning of others in their postings.
I think also from the other side, when one is questioned, they should not become defensive of their position but at least clarify what they said as best it can be in their estimation. I have found it best not to respond at all to those who continually post one liner questions and then pick the answer apart with more questions.
There have been some good threads here where dialog has been kept to civil discourse and great thought provoking observations. To all who have entered into those discussions, thank you. Please continue to stop by and contribute in the future. Start a post... I guess I should do that as I can't remember having done that.
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.
Dennis Jacobsen Charter Member Forum Moderator[M:30] member is offline
B&R, well indoctrinated, USA/Swedish ex-worker married, kids, axed in '86, free at last in '90!
Joined: Jan 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 219 Location: Castle Rock WA 98611, USA
Is it.... « Result #31 on Oct 3, 2008, 12:08pm »
...the fact that posts to this forum regarding the Scriptures wind up as becoming adversarial positions that results in them soon drying up? Is that the reason this otherwise tremendous place to communicate with one another has become as quiet as a tomb? Perhaps so.
In my own case, I do dislike having to repeatedly justify what I believe to those who cannot accept it as being "logically sound"and/or "well grounded in Biblical writings." If my posts are to be challenged by those not believing in the Bible, or by those who have denominational adjenda's of their own (including atheisic ones) then I DO lose my desire to focus and concentrate as necessary for me to post to this forum. Perhaps the same is true for others.
If there are those who think their non-belief of what the Biblical record says is of more value than anyone who does believe in that record, why do you not just begin threads of your own? Why must it be so adamant that what anyone believes is not just their own belief and why, but must be accepted by all others? Is not that the sort of thing that really ends discourse?
It has been my intention to post from my belief(s), and why I hold it (them.) I have never expected others to accept those points of view, but merely consider them. Repeatedly I discover posts to things I have meditated upon and prayed about for long periods of time, even years in some cases, addressing and dismissing them by those who's very posts reveal they never once thought of the concept being expressed previous to reading it for the first time prior to their rapid response.
Then there are topics which arise in which all readers are expected to accept what is being posted (especially with regard to Bibliclal prophecy) as being the only way to understand the topic under consideration. That is, it means thus or exactly so, when it may not mean that at all. Perhaps I am the sole person with such an opinion as this though.
There must be reasons why this forum is not used, and that scripture simply is not freely discussed in forums with 2&2 connections. Disbelief? Individual arrogance that one's view is the only view that is possible? Dismissal of Christianity as having basis in fact, so that believers lose desire to post?
The rules here are not any more restrictive than at the TMB, merely the forum intent to some degree, more or less. So. What are some reasons others have considered for the fact that fresh discourse does not exist?
Dennis Jacobsen Charter Member Forum Moderator[M:30] member is offline
B&R, well indoctrinated, USA/Swedish ex-worker married, kids, axed in '86, free at last in '90!
Joined: Jan 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 219 Location: Castle Rock WA 98611, USA
Re: Well, what do you know.... « Result #32 on Oct 3, 2008, 11:36am »
Regarding:
Quote:
You are saying there is only one requirement and that is to KNOW God and His Son, right?
(As I already wrote you in PM in response to your PM, but now for the sake of anyone reading along, lest it appear I am not responding to your public post...*)
No. I believe I merely quoted what the Lord had said, with a comment upon it. This question does not acknowledge that, but implies a different meaning than what I expressed.
That it was presented as a question does not change the implication [even if you did not mean it to be,*] when you know and I know and you know I know, that is a fallacy of logic known as too few options often present when the word "only" is used, for it is not just that simple. I don't believe I ever said nor implied "only." It was for this "question" that I feel felt* you were putting or attempting to put words into my mouth about what I was saying.
If somehow I did do that I can't find it in rereading it. If I did, then I need to correct it and publicly post you an apology. Will you please point out where I either posted or implied "only." If you cannot, then that thought came from your mindset as you read it, not from what I was expressing.
Quote:
I thought it said somewhere that it was to believe on him?
Certainly! Did I say or express differently by quoting the Lord's words and commenting upon them? That my post should have reflected "only" is not what the words reveal, as far as I can tell.
Quote:
Do you consider these two words to be the same?
Of course not. However, can anyone know God without believing first in Him, that He is, and then that He IS a rewarder of those that seek Him? If so, I would sure like an example of how this could be true.
Regards,
Dennis
P.S. I accept you did not intend to put words into my mouth. However what was written, in my point of view, did that anyway.
*added here and now to (or changed) what I pm'd you
Re: Well, what do you know.... « Result #33 on Sept 29, 2008, 12:51pm »
Dennis...
I in know way was trying to put words in your mouth.... I simply ask you a question restated in words that it came across to me as saying. That is a valid way of learning and understanding when we want to get on the same page as the one making the original statement. If what I stated in return to you is not what your words said, then one only needs to clarify or restate in words that clarify. In retrospect.... I should have turned the first two words around and it would have sounded more like a question instead of a statement.
Knowledge is a very important step to believing. To believe something we must first know and then understand how it concerns or impacts us. Believing doesn't really do us any good either unless we act upon our belief.
Sorry for not getting back to you earlier... have been tied down at work for quite a few days... will try to check in here more often for your response.
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.
Dennis Jacobsen Charter Member Forum Moderator[M:30] member is offline
B&R, well indoctrinated, USA/Swedish ex-worker married, kids, axed in '86, free at last in '90!
Joined: Jan 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 219 Location: Castle Rock WA 98611, USA
Re: Well, what do you know.... « Result #35 on Sept 22, 2008, 8:53pm »
Well, that post quoted words that the Bible reports the Lord said. Isn't there a vast difference between knowing about, and knowing? Perhaps the former does not necessarily include belief, and the latter does? However, please don't put words in my "mouth" which I have not expressed.
The point was, is, and ever shall be that everlasting life IS knowing God and the Yehu'shuah Messiah sent to humanity. Surely the way to know God is to believe in The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, enjoying their indwelling which produces the well known Fruit of the Spirit.
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.
Dennis Jacobsen Charter Member Forum Moderator[M:30] member is offline
B&R, well indoctrinated, USA/Swedish ex-worker married, kids, axed in '86, free at last in '90!
Joined: Jan 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 219 Location: Castle Rock WA 98611, USA
Well, what do you know.... « Result #37 on Sept 11, 2008, 5:53pm »
Quote:
But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you....
Quote:
And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
In thinking about what one KNOWS some thoughts came to mind, these two in particular. If a group follows what we KNOW is the way of the princes of the Gentiles, rather than how the Lord said it should be among believers, is that not a conflict with knowing the only true God and the One He has sent?
Is it not a question of the existance of eternal life as described by the Lord Himself, or is it just another human failing? Where is the line crossed between eternal life or not? By attending a certain group's services, or "believing in" any form of preachers' dos and don'ts? If so, then why not the simple compliance with what is KNOWN to be the way of the Lord as HE Himself taught in matters like that first posted to this thread?
Re: My struggles as a Christian « Result #38 on Aug 26, 2008, 9:16pm »
I don't really know where to start... it has been so long since I have been on here.... and I wanted to post to this thread before when I read it.... but time did not allow it. I have a few minutes and have skimmed over the post and agree with what Rod is trying to accomplish here. Why get into the argumentative attitude when we are just discussing things. I am sorry but God made us human and he doesn't promise to show us all things and give a perfect understanding anytime this side of the grave. We struggle, learn and live what we learn and our experiences give us more insight and appreciation for the way He works and shows His loving care for us.
I have come to the conclusion that we are not able to comprehend in a way that we can explain or reveal God to anyone else. I have come to understand that the workers also know this. They are only a mouthpiece God can use but it is His personal work within the heart that brings life to that individual which is the saving grace. I am so amazed how God gives strength when we need it, but then when we again have to stand on our own, he is there helping, keeping, giving us something to lean on, but not pushing us or dragging us anywhere. This is a picture of God's gentle touch and his loving caress. I love what a card I got the other day said... "When we lose a loved one, God wraps us in a warm embrace until we are able again to stand on our own and then we come forth a new being."
I have some thoughts about God that I have not been able to put into words yet.... but they go along the line that he has not changed since the OT times... so we can read those words and should be able to understand him better. The difference is and it really isn't a difference... it is that Jesus has shown us more of what God wants in the flesh. Some one dying recently was ask what they would do differently and they said "I wouldn't be so self centered." Jesus was teaching us that. Love your brother. Holier than thou, self righteous condemnation is not going to win anyone over. Read John 12 through 17 and see if there is any place there that gives us a right to feel superior to anyone. Jesus was a manifestation of God in the flesh fulfilling the law, pointing us to His Father in heaven.
How does all this help me? I struggle with so many things I don't think I need to struggle with. Loneliness, the desire to do what needs to be done, the ability to actually do what needs to be done. Most of this is natural, but it effects me spiritually and I struggle with that.
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.
Joined: Dec 2006 Gender: Female Posts: 565 Location: Canada
Re: My new book about Revelation « Result #41 on Aug 11, 2008, 9:25pm »
Hey leftshoe!! Wow! I'd love to read your book. How/when can I get a copy? It may be awhile before I can really get into reading it though. I'm going to school soon, so I'll be busy with that, but I want to make sure you reserve a copy for me....a signed copy...please!
Joined: Feb 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 856 Location: West Coast
Re: USA: tax deductible church contributions « Result #42 on Aug 11, 2008, 2:23pm »
exactly right. You get a fraction of it back.
shushy, you should claim the deduction when appropriate. If you don't want it for yourself, then figure out what tax bracket you're in and add that much to the original donation so you can give it to your church.
Joined: Feb 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 856 Location: West Coast
My new book about Revelation « Result #43 on Aug 11, 2008, 2:21pm »
Hi guys, I will be submitting my latest book to editors or agents within a few months. If anyone would be interested in reading and commenting on the book, and if you have time available to read a book in about three weeks, please PM me. Here's your chance to get inside my head!
----------------
This is a fun romp through the Revelation story, as heard through the ears of John’s intended audience, but the book is far more than just an entertaining read. Original, shocking, historical, and plausible, it will surely also be controversial, since a number of brand new insights are revealed, but the facts are in line; this is no shallow tale, but a many-year project of exhausting study.
REVELATION: The Way It Happened is a down-to-earth interpretation with a twist: it bridges fiction, history, and religious exposition in a way never before attempted. The fictional story of a Jewish father and son is presented side-by-side with the text of Revelation and accompanying commentary. In a curious contrast, the storyline will send your hopes soaring heavenward, while the nonfiction portion simultaneously brings you spiraling earthbound to gut-wrenching reality, concluding in an unsatisfying, unsolvable paradox. Welcome to religion; you will never read your Bible the same way again.
The story takes place in the first century, at the home of a poor Jewish family in Ephesus, and chronicles their amazement and horror as the prophecies of Revelation are played out around them in the Roman Empire. You, too, will be amazed each time the story pauses and presents the familiar words of Revelation in an entirely new light. St. John plays a prominent role in the story, as does another mysterious John, leaving you wondering through much of the book which one will turn out to be the real author of Revelation. All of Revelation’s secrets are slowly teased into the light through the conversation of this Jewish father teaching his son. You’ll learn in dramatic fashion the identity of the Beast of Revelation, his double the Antichrist, and John’s nemesis, the False Prophet. You will experience the gruesome Jerusalem war of 70 AD, the true-to-life fire-and-brimstone tragedy of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, the dramatic puzzle in which the Beast is identified, and finally, the Christian dream of escaping all this to live forever with God in a new Eden-like Jerusalem after it floats down from heaven and settles atop the war-torn rubble of mount Zion.
Joined: Feb 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 856 Location: West Coast
Re: USA: tax deductible church contributions « Result #45 on Aug 10, 2008, 6:30pm »
I doubt she is misquoting. It's something that ticks me off. When people ask for donations saying I can "just deduct the donation from my taxes" or something like that. I never know whether they are ignorant or a huckster. I suspect the former.
Re: USA: tax deductible church contributions « Result #46 on Aug 9, 2008, 8:24am »
Methinks you are misquoting what was said about claiming the contribution on your taxes. When you make the claim, you do not "get it back", as it were. What happens is that your tax liability is lowered by the amount of your contribution.
Re: My struggles as a Christian « Result #47 on Aug 7, 2008, 11:56pm »
Hi Rob, I just came upon this post. I encourage you to journal. When I began (and I admit I havnet done it for sometime now) I would pour out my heart about everything that concerned me, I would complain to God about the things I wasnt happy about in my relationships, I would write down scriptures I was currently reading but most of all I would focus on my love for him and learned to be honest with him about everything. I wanted to be real. I wanted for him to hear me and help me. I wanted to hear him. I knew Math15:8,9. I didnt want to be like that. I wanted to have a heart like David, that was pure towards him but I didnt know how to obtain that. I read the Pslams and each day found gems that related to me and my life. WHn I was up praise was easy. Then I went through a period where all I did was cry out because of my circumstances.
I too wanted to know what it meant to worship in "spirit and in truth." That scripture fasinated me. So I did a study on it, as Ive said b4 Im not a theologan. What I discovered was there is a secret/a key to it and the holy spirit had been teaching me this for a number of yrs during my time alone with him when I fasted. It basicaly means "to see, to look upon, to gaze upon, to look out," which means "to see what God is doing."To be able to see you need to be able to worship and enter into his presence. I ended up teaching on it at a hearing from God conference years ago. Believe it or not.
I see you have mention Isiaish 61, a question I put to the workers last wk on TMB. You have this anointing.
Each paragraph you mention I can relate too. I feel compeled to say this to you. You have a very strong call on your life but Im sure you know this. God hasnt finished with you yet.
Thank you for being open. My life has been just a long wretched struggle the last 5yrs. Marriage breakup and almost lost my mind. Im much better now and can see how God held me and sustained me through the times when like Elijah I just wanted to die not suicide but life was just too hard. Strangley the people who helped me through it were non christians.
James 1:27, I recon this is the only religion that matters. To God and now to me.
Faith, I find it easy to pray and have faith for all manner of things for others. When it comes for faith for my life its difficult. Ive learned that praying the prayer and then standing on what I have prayed and whn it looks like its gonna go tits up keep beliving and dont be shaken, then the break through seems to come whn all looks completely hopeless. Wow, this was bk in oct u posted this.
Re: Ask Seek Knock moved from TMB « Result #48 on Aug 7, 2008, 11:18pm »
Hi Dennis, I remember asking the Lord for so many things, in my zeal and passion for all of him and what he had for my life. whether it was for him to clean up my heart and give me a pure heart or for the baptism of fire which I didnt have a clue what it was, or discernment knowledge, wisdom and understanding. My Pastor would shake his head and say with concern on his face ' be careful what you ask for, because God will give it too you." Looking back, the trials, the storms, the destitute winter seasons, the slander all was worth it. I concude now that All that matters at the end of the day is to love God and love my neighbor. At this point that is all I care about.
Re: USA: tax deductible church contributions « Result #49 on Aug 7, 2008, 11:08pm »
When we left meetings and began to tithe and give in other churches to be obedient to scripture. (I also happen to get a thrill when I do it) I recall them animatedly saying that our giving is tax deductable and that we could claim it all back. This to me seemed unethical at the time. I dont give to gain tax back that isnt what is in my head when I give. Dont ask me complicated questions about math or tax. The other thing is giving is all about God, helping others and break throughs to me. I think he rewards me so the tax benefits are not so important.
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