This may be quite lengthy so bear with me. I am 19 year old female who was raised baptist but come freshman year converted to agnostic and stayed that way for quite a while, though at the same time occasionally questioned if there may be a god and would sometimes even feel bad for labeling myself agnostic when I still thought it may be possible for there to be a god. A few months ago I had a dream that was extremely frightening to me. I died somehow I don't know how and was raised to the sky and thought I had made it to heaven when I saw either god or an angel I didn't really know and was rejected from the heavens and fell straight down and woke up immediately before anything else could happen. This was a recurring dream though things were a bit different in the others it was the same idea. I believe it was a sign from god telling me to wake up and that there really is a god. I would like to consider myself christian now but for some reason I am terrified of the bible. I want to read it and learn more but I'm so scared, I don't know why. Ever since I was little I've been scared of anything related to religion even though I've always believed. Maybe it's just because I'm so terrified of death, I don't know. But I know I need god in my life. I have many problems that I know I can't deal with on my own and would like to become a better person and believe that god can help me. I've had a couple dreams around when I had the first one where I just felt something wasn't right, like something evil was present even though nothing bad had really happened I just knew. And it was one of those dreams where it felt very real so while I was asleep I prayed and begged for god to take away the evil and let me wake up from this dream that had felt so evil, and he did, it took some time but he did I woke up terrified but felt comfort at the same time knowing he had listened to my prayers. I know many people would think I'm just crazy if I told them that but I really believe it was him. What can I do to be less scared and start practicing being a christian again?

I know how you feel. I have scary dreams all the time, and approaching the God who created the universe, is a little terrifying.

The Bible is a collection of historical documents, there is nothing to be afraid of. If you are afraid of death, look through the bible and find verses that tell you not to fear. There are TONS of them!

I have a feeling you are very focused on the "practices" of Christianity. But Christianity is not a religion- it's a relationship. Focus,instead, on getting to know Jesus, treat him like a friend, spend time with him, talking to him, reading his words, listening to him. It's about cultivating a relationship.

Yes, church and the Bible are helpful, but right now, I would focus on learning more about this god that you have always sensed was present.

Review:Psalm 23

And pray, Lord that I could be all you created me to be. Restore my soul, and lead me in doing your will Lord. That evil bow down, and flee from me, so that no harm can be cause. In Jesus name I ask, and call unto the Shepherd and Bishop of my soul. Amen

We all get terrified of death at some point and time, it is how we deal with that fear,

Not all Christians face the fear of death as good as others, since of course most of us do not want to leave where we are now and the love ones around us.

But we remember that we will always have some doubts, look at the aposltes who lived and learned under Christ. They got angry, they bickered for power and authority, when they came for Jesus, they used weapons at first to protect thierself.

Peter as he started walking on water ( he was on it) started to doubt at that point) And while Thomas gets a bad rap for his doubt, all of the followers doubted and were hiding in fear, till Jesus appeared.

Doubts is part of faith, believing even if there is no real reason to believe,

Confession cleanses the mind and soul. Effectual fervent prayer is very
powerful and can do for us what we cannot do on our own. Our sin
is like a poisons to our body, and can bring death. Sin is of satan,
and he came to steal, kill and destrory us and he will if we don't call
on the Lord. Jesus came that we might have life and have it more
abundantly." "Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind," Rom: 12:2
Picture in your mind every fear, every inferiority feeling, every destructive
thought, as draning out of your mind, then see Jesus with outstretched
arms saying, "I am come that you might have life, and that you might
have it more abundantly." John 10:10 "For God hath not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love and sound mind."
Keep reminding yourself that God is with you, that He will never fail you,
that you can count upon Him. "I am far from oppression, and fear does not come nigh me" Isa. 54:14 "I am delivered from the evils of this
present world for it is the will of God" Gal. 1:4
Say these quotes I have given you, write them down and say them
often and also read the 91 Psalm. God loves you and hates sin.
"I will fear no evil for thou art with me Lord, your Word and your Spirit
they comfort me." Psalms 23:4

Blessings Maggie 3

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Originally Posted by Fr_Chuck

Doubts is part of faith, believing even if there is no real reason to beleive,

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Faith is given to those that do believe..doubt plays no part in faith

Gal 3:22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.


Doubt is the pawing of satan to tempt man. Peter was said to question the word Jesus spoke.

Matthew 16:23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.

Stedfast in Faith

Scripture:
The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you.
(2 Chronicles 15:2)

For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. (Isaiah 41:13)

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29)

The list goes on and on!

~Stand in assurance of God's love.

Surely you know what you need to do but a place to start is to pray,
LORD, REVEAL YOURSELF TO ME, REMOVE MY DOUBTS AND RENEW MY FAITH.
Follow that by a confession of who Jesus is and if you don't know, read the Gospels again.

modernromance09,
Your dreams are not unusual. In fact they are classics that many have experienced.
The evil you feel is from Satan or his devils. They are working on you to keep you away of chase you from God.
You have so far received some very good advice, follow it.
Read the bible without fear, particularly about loving gentle Jesus and how He deal with both good and bad people, also with those who had faith.
Pray a lot for God's help an protection.
When face with temptation one of the best and shortest of prayers is, Lord God, please, take this temptation from me."
You will find that the temptation is greatly lessened or gone right away.
If it comes back, pray it again, relentlessly.
God loves you more than any human can.
Love Him in return and call on Him for strength an faith.
Peace and kindness,
Fred.

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Originally Posted by sndbay

doubt plays no part in faith

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Doubt is integral to faith. In fact, doubt is the ants-in-the-pants of faith. I would fear for the soul of someone who claims to have no doubt. Even Luther said, "Lord, I believe, Help thou mine unbelief."

I suggest you go to the library and check out books that contain stories from the Bible -- perhaps Egermeier's Bible Story Book - certainly books from the children's department, books that keep the stories simply worded and have lots of illustrations. Just immerse yourself in those stories. Read about the Old Testament heroes and kings. Read about Jesus' life and miracles. Read the stories from the New Testament including the story of the Good Samaritan plus the other parables Jesus taught. I say this because I learned the most about the Bible by being a Sunday School teacher for young children and preparing/teaching each week's lesson. Gradually, as you get to know the stories, delve into the Bible itself to find those same stories.

Another idea is to check out books on the various topics presented by the Bible -- prayer or hope or missions or forgiveness or suffering or contentment or service to others. Be sure to talk with a reference librarian and include him/her in your search for helpful and interesting books.

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Originally Posted by Wondergirl

Doubt is integral to faith. In fact, doubt is the ants-in-the-pants of faith. I would fear for the soul of someone who claims to have no doubt. Even Luther said, "Lord, I believe, Help thou mine unbelief."

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Thus you doubt the Word of God, that says Rest in ME ? (Matthew 11:29)

Matthew 16:23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.

It is the man Luther, and his words that you post

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Wondergirl

Doubt is integral to faith. In fact, doubt is the ants-in-the-pants of faith. I would fear for the soul of someone who claims to have no doubt. Even Luther said, "Lord, I believe, Help thou mine unbelief."

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I think Wondergirls thoughts,including the quote, show insight into the nature of faith and doubt. "Lord, I believe, Help thou mine unbelief"

How is it possible to believe and not believe at the same time?

This apparently contradictory reasoning was a standard method of discourse in Greek philosophy. Even though there may exist two opposing views there is always a common ground which can be reached. Once this common ground is found then progress is possible. This dialectical method of reasoning can be between two people or within ones own mind.

I think there is a need to distinguish between two types of doubt. Firstly, there is the type of doubt we are familiar with. We could call this the strong formulation of doubt.Secondly, there exists a weaker formulation of doubt. This formulation is a type of divided mind, or being in two minds.

The weaker formulation allows for (and expects) there will be a positive outcome. The outcome being a reaffirming of faith. I think this is what the Luther quote is getting at.

I am definitely NOT a biblical scholar but I would be surprised if we didn't find doubt being used in two different ways in the bible.

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Originally Posted by TUT317

I think there is a need to distinguish between two types of doubt.

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Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...

Matthew 28:17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

Doubted "distazō" greek word meanings to waiver

James 1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
James 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

double minded "dipsychos" greek word meaning: wavering, uncertain, divided in interest, doubting


Matthew 14:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

little faith "oligopistos" greek word meaning trusting too little

wherefore didst thou doubt/waiver


If the mind is assured of loving chocolate after tasting it, then the heart accepts what the mind has registered as truth.

Christ said it was what comes from the heart and out of the mouth that defiles a man (Matthew 15:8)


Col 2:2-3-4 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.

sndbay,
Very interesting.
Thanks,
Fred

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Originally Posted by arcura

sndbay,
Very interesting.
Thanks,
Fred

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I agree Fred, it is interesting, as well as important for us to trust in God, and not be double minded or doubt.

God wants us to stand stedfast on both legs for example, not on one leg unbalanced.

Hebrews 3:14-15 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; While it is said, To day if ye will hear HIS voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.

Remember it took very little for those that followed Moses out of Egypt to doubt even though they had already seen the sea open to allow them to cross. They doubted, and mistrust God and His promises to instead follow foolish talk of men gathered together.

We must study the Word of God, and pray for God's divine power to gift us in fruitfulness. Allowing us to be all He created us to be.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by sndbay

God wants us to stand stedfast on both legs for example, not on one leg unbalanced.

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We will never, in this life, stand on both legs. That's unrealistic as long as we are travelers on this planet. God loves us and cares for us and supports us even when we struggle and have doubts. He accepts our humanness; we should too. No Christian is 100% steadfast. Did you ever read the "Footsteps" poem?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by sndbay

God wants us to stand stedfast on both legs for example, not on one leg unbalanced.

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1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

1 Peter 5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

1 Peter 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Hebrew 6:16 Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Wondergirl

We will never, in this life, stand on both legs. That's unrealistic as long as we are travelers on this planet. God loves us and cares for us and supports us even when we struggle and have doubts. He accepts our humanness; we should too. No Christian is 100% steadfast. Did you ever read the "Footsteps" poem?

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Psa 78:8 And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by sndbay

1 Peter 1:5, 1 Peter 5:10, 1 Peter 1:16, Hebrew 6:16, Psa 78:8

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Do people object when you pound then over the head with your Bible and then turn their backs when you deny them their humanity?