I used to be a christian, but over the few years I left. It seemed to be the right choice and everything at the time. Everything went well, till now recently, my relationship failed, I'm not doing too well in school and I feel lost. I feel like constantly I need to find my way. Have I been punished?

I just can't seem to believe in God. I really don't know why. What is the purpose of everything?

Hey,there's a story,footprints. Do you know it.

Here's the gist,
A man was looking back on his life,in times of good he saw two sets of footprints in the sand,when in times of trouble,he saw only one set of footprints.

Confused the man asked God why did you leave me when I was in trouble.

God answered,where you see only one set of footprints that is when I carried you.

Never fear,God will never leave you.

hey,theres a story,footprints. do you know it.

heres the gist,
A man was looking back on his life,in times of good he saw two sets of footprints in the sand,when in times of trouble,he saw only one set of footprints.

confused the man asked God why did you leave me when i was in trouble.

God answered,where you see only one set of footprints that is when i carried you.

never fear,God will never leave you.

Nice story. Im thinking about believing again. Im scared that things will be different and I'm not good enough to. God might not feel the same way anymore.

Just because things go bad why do you feel you are being punished, you may be being put into a point or place you need to be even.

And normally things happen as a result of OUR actions, so what can you change in your life.

Do you need to get active in helping others,

If you are not doing well in school, study harder, get a tutor.
Relationships fail, they take both people to be committed.

But look at the 12 followers of Christ, none of them retired to a yahat in the Red Sea? They were hunted, put in prison and more, Look where Paul was when he wrote most of the New Testement

A christian is not promised a easy life here on earth, they are promised to be saved and forgiven.

Have I been punished?
No. Life's hard sometimes, that's all.

I just can't seem to believe in God.
Then don't, and quit worrying about it.

I really don't know why.
Doesn't matter. If you can't, you can't.

What is the purpose of everything?
Different things have different purposes. Can you be more specific?

Only you can decide what you want in your life. Only you can determine your beliefs.

I used to be a Christian, in many ways I still am, but not the ways that count to other Christians. I've found my own path, it works for me.

I know people that are devout Christians and I know Atheists, all good people, their beliefs don't make them who they are, it doesn't define them. Good is good.

If you are thinking of believing again, then you're already questioning. That's fine, questions lead to answers.

You'll figure it out, it may take some time, some trial and error, heck, it took me almost 30 years to figure out what worked for me.

Whatever you choose, be happy with who you are, don't let anyone tell you that your beliefs are wrong, because they belong to you and no one else.

What's with me today? All these long heartfelt, mushy posts. Am I losing my touch? :eek:

Only you can decide what you want in your life. Only you can determine your beliefs.

I used to be a Christian, in many ways I still am, but not the ways that count to other Christians. I've found my own path, it works for me.

I know people that are devout Christians and I know Atheists, all good people, their beliefs don't make them who they are, it doesn't define them. Good is good.

If you are thinking of believing again, then you're already questioning. That's fine, questions lead to answers.

You'll figure it out, it may take some time, some trial and error, heck, it took me almost 30 years to figure out what worked for me.

Whatever you choose, be happy with who you are, don't let anyone tell you that your beliefs are wrong, because they belong to you and no one else.

What's with me today? All these long heartfelt, mushy posts. Am I loosing my touch? :eek:

lol don't worry Alt, =P your mushy posts are interesting to read and it has meaning XD.

But yah I used to be Christian and my whole family is and they truly believe it is the way of life.

Im thinking of believing again to see if it's the right route for me and take me to the place I want to get years later. When I was small, I just followed my parents but a couple years ago, I've decided I wanted to explore something else.

Now I'm confused of whether to start believing again.

Why not do some research. Go to a few churches of different denominations, see if they offer something you like.

Explore all possibilities, there isn't only one answer out there, trust me on that one.

I'm a Deist, or at least that's the closest definition for my beliefs. I guess we can call it Altyism. Does that mean I can make the ruels? Hmmm, something to think about.

It took me a long time, 10 years of Catholic school, confirmed Lutheran, church, bible study, etc. etc. I always had questions, no one had answers, so I found them myself, and now I am what I am (pass the spinach).

Don't do something to fit in. Really, if you find your own way, your own path, you'll be much happier. You'll know when you've found it, you'll feel that little click, that little spark, the "Aha, this is it!"

I should know, Altenweg means "Old path"

Don't ask. :(

You're not being punished. There are obstacles in life. Just because bad things happen it doesn't mean that God abandoned you, or that god doesn't exist. Life isn't easy, God didn't say it was going to be easy. Your good enough for God to accept. No matter what you do God will always be willing to accept you, and don't let anyone tell you different. God doesn't just abandon people like that. There has to be a series of decisions a person makes before god ever abandons them. You have to abandon God before he abandons you. And even after you abandon him, he will still take you back if you ask for forgiveness and believe in him.

About not being able to believed in God. There are influences in life from the devil, he'll try to get any person he can to stop believing in God. And sadly, sometimes this works. I have been through enough to know that God does exist. I'm great full to know that he's watching over me. Don't give up because bad things happen in life.

Ask for his forgiveness and fallow him. It's hard to believe in things you can't see. Just remember It's never too late and I hope you find what your looking for.

Hope I helped.

You could be culturally christian, go to the church, sing the songs have easter and christmas but secretly just don't believe. Then you could have the support network and social aceptance without the guilt and worry.

Personally I have no idea how you can suddenly make yourself believe- I always thought you had it or you don't.

none12345,
I think you already do believe in God to some extent.
Keep on mind that no matter how much or little you believe in God, God believes in you.
God does love you unconditionally.
Accept than and move on in life.
Go talk to the pastors of several Churches, Catholic and Protestant, about your life's problems.
They will help you find your way and help you make your own decision.
Peace and kindness,
Fred (arcura)

Maybe explore other religions. This might help you find your path.

BTDT
Walked with the Lord for a number of years, but was persuaded bu the pull of some non believers. Finally got a rude awakening and made a decision to return to God. The first time it was sort of go to church, do all the right things, but my heart was not really in it. This time is different. I/we made a decision that we were going to get involved, start learning and doing for others. What a difference. We now have a large circle of friends that support us no matter what.Like others have suggested, make visits to many different churches and find the one that fits you. There will be at least one that will fit you and you will feel comfortable in. Then, once you have made a decision to that church, get involved! That alone will make a hugh difference in your church/religious experience.

Donn,
That is good advice.
Fred

Thanks everyone for your input. Ill try to find my way of life. I got a question. There are so many religions out there, how do you know which one is the true religion?

Thanks everyone for your input. Ill try to find my way of life. I got a question. There are so many religions out there, how do you know which one is the true religion?

What makes you so sure there is such a thing as "the true religion"? Some form of religious expression is nearly universal in human cultures and societies, but that doesn't mean that some particular one of them has to be the true one, or even the truthiest one, does it? To me it just means that most of us want so much to transcend the bounds of life in this physical body/world that we can't help inventing stories that end that way. For all anyone can prove, they're all true.

What makes you so sure there is such a thing as "the true religion"? Some form of religious expression is nearly universal in human cultures and societies, but that doesn't mean that some particular one of them has to be the true one, or even the truthiest one, does it? To me it just means that most of us want so much to transcend the bounds of life in this physical body/world that we can't help inventing stories that end that way. For all anyone can prove, they're all true.

Are you trying to say that all the Gods in every religion is the same God? If so, then are you say there is more than one God? How can so many Gods create life?

none12345,
It is a matter of belief as to which religion is the true one in peoples' opinion.
I believe that Christianity is the true religion for it accomplished and provides more of God and His will and intent than do any others.
Not only that but the Fact that the trinity God is the only God who is perfect in all respects and attributes tells me a lot for I believe that a God must be perfect or it is not a god.
Fred

Are you trying to say that all the Gods in every religion is the same God? If so, then are you say there is more than one God? How can so many Gods create life?

I'm not trying to say anything about God. I'm saying that the religious impulse finds some form of expression in every human society and culture, though not all individuals find these cultural expressions satisfying or meaningful. If you can find a religious tradition that satisfies your own impulse toward the Spirit, good for you. If not, you'll have to improvise. It's more trouble, but for some people, it's more satisfying. It's really up to you. I wish you well.

Ordinaryguy,

There is a way that seemeth right unto a man but the end thereof is death.

That is what the Bible says, I understand that doesn't mean much to you because you have your own way of what seems right and logical. But what if you are wrong? You have been wrong in life... haven't you?

None12345, I have nothing differently to say than what has already been told on this thread.

I am not judging or discerning on you, just feeling that your story coincides with the story of prodigal son. Read Luke 15:18. How happy would Lord Jesus be to hold you back once more in HIS arms.

I do not know your situation well, but is it too to start an effort to re-establish your relationship? Pray over it. I will remember you in my prayers.

About a "True Religion", I am pasting here the lines which I have posted on another thread. "............... Following Jesus is the only way to God. No other religion/faith tells us this. It is only Christ Jesus who gave HIS life for our sins, whereas HE could have avoided HIS death on the cross and we all know when HE prayed, "O my Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me. Yet not what I want but what you want". In John 14:6, Jesus has said very clearly, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me". What more we want? It is not our good deeds but HIS grace would save us. And the Bible tells us of those people whom we call criminals and sinners and God picked them for HIS work. I do not know any other faith/religion where somebody has given up his/her life for a sinner. They have done it to save their family or friends but not a sinner. Follwoing Jesus is to carry his/her own cross and the life for that person is not a path covered with roses.

I just can't seem to believe in God. I really dont know why.

Because it's a ludicrous premise invented by man to help describe a world they don't understand?

That's why I don't. Does that help?

Ordinaryguy,

There is a way that seemeth right unto a man but the end thereof is death.

That is what the Bible says, I understand that doesn't mean much to you because you have your own way of what seems right and logical. But what if you are wrong? You have been wrong in life...haven't you?

I'm afraid of neither dying, nor being wrong. Both are inevitable.

The life of the Spirit that I participate in occurs every day, in the here-and-now, before the death of my body. I'm content to focus on that and let whatever happens afterwards unfold in its own way.

None12345, I have nothing differently to say than what has already been told on this thread.

I am not judging or discerning on you, just feeling that your story coincides with the story of prodigal son. Read Luke 15:18. How happy would Lord Jesus be to hold you back once more in HIS arms.

I do not know your situation well, but is it too to start an effort to re-establish your relationship? Pray over it. I will remember you in my prayers.

About a "True Religion", I am pasting here the lines which I have posted on another thread. "............... Following Jesus is the only way to God. No other religion/faith tells us this. It is only Christ Jesus who gave HIS life for our sins, whereas HE could have avoided HIS death on the cross and we all know when HE prayed, "O my Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me. Yet not what I want but what you want". In John 14:6, Jesus has said very clearly, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me". What more we want? It is not our good deeds but HIS grace would save us. And the Bible tells us of those people whom we call criminals and sinners and God picked them for HIS work. I do not know any other faith/religion where somebody has given up his/her life for a sinner. They have done it to save their family or friends but not a sinner. Follwoing Jesus is to carry his/her own cross and the life for that person is not a path covered with roses.

I'm actually very familiar with the bible, grew up with parents teaching me, even read the whole bible 2 times. For me it's a matter of if I believe what is told in the bible is a fact or man made book.

I think that everyone has been wrong at least a few times during their life, that is everyone except God.
To be a God one must be perfect in all ways and aspects.
Therefore the only real truth is of and with and from God.
Also that there can on;y be one true almighty God.
I believe that I know Him as Yahweh, The Father, Son, And Holy Spirit triune God.
Peace and kindness,
Fred

I think that everyone has been wrong at least a few times during their life, that is everyone except God.
To be a God one must be perfect in all ways and aspects.
Therefore the only real truth is of and with and from God.
Also that there can on;y be one true almighty God.
I believe that I know Him as Yahweh, The Father, Son, And Holy Spirit triune God.
Peace and kindness,
Fred

Certainly we have all been wrong. My point to Ordinaryguy is what if he is wrong in rejecting Jesus Christ . In Hebrews the Apostle Paul is speaking to those that have said NO to God and he says... IT IS A FEARFUL THING TO FALL INTO THE HANDS OF A LIVING GOD. I think from his comments back to me, it is a risk he is willing to take, or perhaps he doesn't even see it as a risk. I LIKE ordinaryguy, I wish I could somehow persuade him to take a second look at his belief system.

Certainly we have all been wrong. My point to Ordinaryguy is what if he is wrong in rejecting Jesus Christ . In Hebrews the Apostle Paul is speaking to those that have said NO to God and he says... IT IS A FEARFUL THING TO FALL INTO THE HANDS OF A LIVING GOD.
The fact that you think I am "rejecting Jesus Christ" and that I "have said NO to God", is revealing. I think if you go back and read carefully, you'll find that I've done neither. While it is true that I find much to disagree with in Christian doctrine and Biblical interpretation, that is not at all the same as "rejecting Jesus Christ" and saying "NO to God".

I think from his comments back to me, it is a risk he is willing to take, or perhaps he doesn't even see it as a risk.
The latter. I don't see my approach to spiritual life as risky, but I understand why you do.

I LIKE ordinaryguy, I wish I could somehow persuade him to take a second look at his belief system.
Not to be rude or unfriendly, but based on the way you participate in these discussions, I don't feel much affinity for you, so your appeals for me to re-fashion my belief system into something closer to yours are less persuasive than they would otherwise be.

Ordinaryguy,

Ok.

It sounds like YOU need to make a decision for yourself.
Spend some time by yourself w/ the Lord.
He loves you so much... Sounds like you are under conviction.
God takes pleasure in blessing you

Read His Word... His Word speaks to you.
He is not a God of confusion & when you read His word, He tells you how he takes pleasure in blessing you.

Psalm 12:6
And the words of the LORD are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times.

Isaiah 44:2
This is what the LORD says— he who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: Do not be afraid, O Jacob, my servant, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen.

Numbers 23:19
God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act?

Exodus 34:14
Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.

2 Chronicles 7:14
if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

John 3:18
He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.


Book of Proverbs:

5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;

6 in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight. [a]

7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the LORD and shun evil.

8 This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones.

9 Honor the LORD with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;

10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine.

11 My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline
and do not resent his rebuke,

12 because the LORD disciplines those he loves,
as a father [b] the son he delights in.

13 Blessed is the man who finds wisdom,
the man who gains understanding,

14 for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.

15 She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.

16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.

17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.

18 She is a tree of life to those who embrace her;
those who lay hold of her will be blessed.

19 By wisdom the LORD laid the earth's foundations,
by understanding he set the heavens in place;

20 by his knowledge the deeps were divided,
and the clouds let drop the dew.

21 My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment,
do not let them out of your sight;

22 they will be life for you,
an ornament to grace your neck.

23 Then you will go on your way in safety,
and your foot will not stumble;

24 when you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.

25 Have no fear of sudden disaster
or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,

26 for the LORD will be your confidence
and will keep your foot from being snared.

27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it,
when it is in your power to act.

28 Do not say to your neighbor,
"Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow"—
when you now have it with you.

29 Do not plot harm against your neighbor,
who lives trustfully near you.

30 Do not accuse a man for no reason—
when he has done you no harm.

31 Do not envy a violent man
or choose any of his ways,

32 for the LORD detests a perverse man
but takes the upright into his confidence.

33 The LORD's curse is on the house of the wicked,
but he blesses the home of the righteous.

34 He mocks proud mockers
but gives grace to the humble.

35 The wise inherit honor,
but fools he holds up to shame.

........ for me its a matter of if i believe what is told in the bible is a fact or man made book.

Hmmm... I guess I have to agree with you that it's a matter of belief. Whereas I believe that the letter by Apostle Paul are written by inspiration from the Holy Spirit. The Gospels were written by disciples, so no dispute there nor with Old Testament.

Another thing is that if we take any other religious book, those all are man made. And inpiration of Holy spirit is only found in the Bible. And "theoretically", if we take the Bible as "man made book", I would still believe in the Bible than any other. Believing in one Lord Jesus is much better than having faith in 33 million gods or dying foolishly with a hope to have 77 virgins in heaven or never getting out of circle of pain and sufferings. Or just living with no hope after finishing the journey on this earth.

I understand how you feel. My only brother was murdered and two years after that my Dad died from stomach cancer. I questioned if God loved me, did he care, was he listening when I prayed. I felt lost and abandoned. But when I began to read his word I found comfort and peace, was it over night? No but anything worth having takes time to cultivate so I began to set time aside to pray and to read his word daily I didn't read whole chapters but just one or two verses and I meditated on them and it helped me a lot. The enemy wants to separate us from our power source and strength; which is God but don't you let him trick you hold on and hang on in there

hizchild,
Welcome to here.
I'm saddened about your loss.
Thanks much about you post.
It is good advice.
Peace and kindness,
Fred

I thought I found the road to somewhere, somewhere in His grace but instead I seem to have found the road to no where and I'm trying to escape but I still believe that there is something left for me. I don't know if it makes sense

none12345,
There is "something left" for everyone, thank God.
The road to follow for each person is in the New Testament.
Your road is in there. Keep looking for it which much reading and contemplation.
Peace and kindness,
Fred