[__ Prayer __] Spiritually Struggling, Scared and Sad. Help Me.

[LionHeart777]

I guess I should give a little background on who I am. My name is Jacob, I'm 19 years old, and I'm from the good ole south. I grew up in the typical southern christian family. I've been a christian all my life. I was baptized and accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior when I was younger. I Never questioned God, or his existence. About a month or so ago I heard about this guy, Harold Camping. HE apperantly thinks the world will end on May 21st 2011, and that the bible proves it. Matthew 24:36-But of that day knoweth no man. Not the angels, no not the Son, but only the Father. So immeaditly, I was like whatever and brushed it off my shoulders after doing a little more research. But it made me reflect on how I've been living my life. I say I'm a "christian" but I never act like it. I sin constantly(I'm embaressed to say what it is) and I've never repented for it. I guess I've coasted by on the notion that God will forgive me and I can do whatever I want. So I repented for my sins and asked for forgiveness and tried to put them behind me. There have been a few times when I've broken down and done it again, but I always asked for forgiveness and I'm getting better IMO. But it seems like ever since I've started to turn my life around all this DOUBT has crept into my mind. Things like, does God really exist, can I be saved, how Can I know he's real, I'll never be saved, just all these awful things and it's OVERWHELMING! I've never had these thoughts before in my life, and I can't stand it. I talked to my old youth leader, and he told me a metaphor.

"You know when you see a fire, it's bruning bright and tall, and then you see that little ember off to the side slowly going out" The big fire bein gthe church and the little meber being me.

It made alot of sense to me, so I'm gonna start looking for a new church, because I don't feel comfterable in my old one, and I've started reading my bible, and praying daily. It seems like ever since I've started doing this, it's getting worse. In my heart of heart I believe that Jesus died on the cross for me and took away ALL of my sins, but in my mind I feel like the devil is putting all these thoughts in my head because he doesn't want to let go, and I feel like he's winning. I pray to God every day to get rid of these thoughts. I know they wont go away immeaditly, but it's really weighing on my heart. Please pray for me to get through this.

I was wondering if anyone has also been here in there life? What did you do to reafirm your faith. All advice is appreciated. God bless.

 

[Sam21]

I guess I should give a little background on who I am. My name is Jacob, I'm 19 years old, and I'm from the good ole south. I grew up in the typical southern christian family. I've been a christian all my life. I was baptized and accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior when I was younger. I Never questioned God, or his existence. About a month or so ago I heard about this guy, Harold Camping. HE apperantly thinks the world will end on May 21st 2011, and that the bible proves it. Matthew 24:36-But of that day knoweth no man. Not the angels, no not the Son, but only the Father. So immeaditly, I was like whatever and brushed it off my shoulders after doing a little more research. But it made me reflect on how I've been living my life. I say I'm a "christian" but I never act like it. I sin constantly(I'm embaressed to say what it is) and I've never repented for it. I guess I've coasted by on the notion that God will forgive me and I can do whatever I want. So I repented for my sins and asked for forgiveness and tried to put them behind me. There have been a few times when I've broken down and done it again, but I always asked for forgiveness and I'm getting better IMO. But it seems like ever since I've started to turn my life around all this DOUBT has crept into my mind. Things like, does God really exist, can I be saved, how Can I know he's real, I'll never be saved, just all these awful things and it's OVERWHELMING! I've never had these thoughts before in my life, and I can't stand it. I talked to my old youth leader, and he told me a metaphor.

"You know when you see a fire, it's bruning bright and tall, and then you see that little ember off to the side slowly going out" The big fire bein gthe church and the little meber being me.

It made alot of sense to me, so I'm gonna start looking for a new church, because I don't feel comfterable in my old one, and I've started reading my bible, and praying daily. It seems like ever since I've started doing this, it's getting worse. In my heart of heart I believe that Jesus died on the cross for me and took away ALL of my sins, but in my mind I feel like the devil is putting all these thoughts in my head because he doesn't want to let go, and I feel like he's winning. I pray to God every day to get rid of these thoughts. I know they wont go away immeaditly, but it's really weighing on my heart. Please pray for me to get through this.

I was wondering if anyone has also been here in there life? What did you do to reafirm your faith. All advice is appreciated. God bless.

Reading the bible helps a lot,also,say out loud,God is my Father and Jesus is my Saviour(keep saying it). The devil is simply trying to keep you away from God, stay calm and just keep right on trusting in Jesus Christ and you will come out on top.

 

[Bonairos]

I was wondering if anyone has also been here in there life? What did you do to reafirm your faith. All advice is appreciated. God bless.

Been there? YUP!

First, I rededicated my life to Christ. Not necessarily in a church setting; but between me and the Lord.

I talk to Him like I talk to anyone else (except more honest! HAHA)

I tell Him the truth (as if He didn't already know HAHA) and be real with Him. I tell Him I'm having doubts about Who He is,etc. I tell Him it feels as if the devil is winning (if that's the case). I tell Him how it is (good, bad, and ugly . . . again, as if He didn't already know!)

BUT!! I don't stop there. I tell Him my need for Him, my desire for Him and His ways. I tell Him what I need/want changed in my life, my thoughts, my actions, etc.

BUT! I don't stop there. I tell Him the truth. I cannot do it myself! I've tried. I've mustered will, determination, and whatever else I've thought to do. But the bottom line is, "I JUST CANNOT DO IT!!"

Therefore, I surrender myself to Him and become completely dependent on HIM and God's Holy Spirit to transform me into the person HE desires me to be.

If anything, my focus becomes Him and His abilities in me and through me. And when all is said is done, I have no one to credit, no one to thank, no one to praise but God Himself.

Be honest with Him (I mean hard core honest). He already knows, just waiting for us to give up any and all reigns in our lives.

You're on the road to victory, just follow His banner.


Be blessed, Stay blessed!

 

[Fire_inside21]

I guess I should give a little background on who I am. My name is Jacob, I'm 19 years old, and I'm from the good ole south. I grew up in the typical southern christian family. I've been a christian all my life. I was baptized and accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior when I was younger. I Never questioned God, or his existence. About a month or so ago I heard about this guy, Harold Camping. HE apperantly thinks the world will end on May 21st 2011, and that the bible proves it. Matthew 24:36-But of that day knoweth no man. Not the angels, no not the Son, but only the Father. So immeaditly, I was like whatever and brushed it off my shoulders after doing a little more research. But it made me reflect on how I've been living my life. I say I'm a "christian" but I never act like it. I sin constantly(I'm embaressed to say what it is) and I've never repented for it. I guess I've coasted by on the notion that God will forgive me and I can do whatever I want. So I repented for my sins and asked for forgiveness and tried to put them behind me. There have been a few times when I've broken down and done it again, but I always asked for forgiveness and I'm getting better IMO. But it seems like ever since I've started to turn my life around all this DOUBT has crept into my mind. Things like, does God really exist, can I be saved, how Can I know he's real, I'll never be saved, just all these awful things and it's OVERWHELMING! I've never had these thoughts before in my life, and I can't stand it. I talked to my old youth leader, and he told me a metaphor.

"You know when you see a fire, it's bruning bright and tall, and then you see that little ember off to the side slowly going out" The big fire bein gthe church and the little meber being me.

It made alot of sense to me, so I'm gonna start looking for a new church, because I don't feel comfterable in my old one, and I've started reading my bible, and praying daily. It seems like ever since I've started doing this, it's getting worse. In my heart of heart I believe that Jesus died on the cross for me and took away ALL of my sins, but in my mind I feel like the devil is putting all these thoughts in my head because he doesn't want to let go, and I feel like he's winning. I pray to God every day to get rid of these thoughts. I know they wont go away immeaditly, but it's really weighing on my heart. Please pray for me to get through this.

I was wondering if anyone has also been here in there life? What did you do to reafirm your faith. All advice is appreciated. God bless.

I need some time to organize my thoughts, explaining everything in my head is tough for me, I will get back to you with what I can explain :p. Praying for you!!

 

[Hitch]

Just think, there are hundreds maybe thousands of 49 year olds who dont know what you already understand about 'Ol Weird Harold.

You're probably doing pretty well.

 

[Caroline Vigilante]

I guess I should give a little background on who I am. My name is Jacob, I'm 19 years old, and I'm from the good ole south. I grew up in the typical southern christian family. I've been a christian all my life. I was baptized and accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior when I was younger. I Never questioned God, or his existence. About a month or so ago I heard about this guy, Harold Camping. HE apperantly thinks the world will end on May 21st 2011, and that the bible proves it. Matthew 24:36-But of that day knoweth no man. Not the angels, no not the Son, but only the Father. So immeaditly, I was like whatever and brushed it off my shoulders after doing a little more research. But it made me reflect on how I've been living my life. I say I'm a "christian" but I never act like it. I sin constantly(I'm embaressed to say what it is) and I've never repented for it. I guess I've coasted by on the notion that God will forgive me and I can do whatever I want. So I repented for my sins and asked for forgiveness and tried to put them behind me. There have been a few times when I've broken down and done it again, but I always asked for forgiveness and I'm getting better IMO. But it seems like ever since I've started to turn my life around all this DOUBT has crept into my mind. Things like, does God really exist, can I be saved, how Can I know he's real, I'll never be saved, just all these awful things and it's OVERWHELMING! I've never had these thoughts before in my life, and I can't stand it. I talked to my old youth leader, and he told me a metaphor.

"You know when you see a fire, it's bruning bright and tall, and then you see that little ember off to the side slowly going out" The big fire bein gthe church and the little meber being me.

It made alot of sense to me, so I'm gonna start looking for a new church, because I don't feel comfterable in my old one, and I've started reading my bible, and praying daily. It seems like ever since I've started doing this, it's getting worse. In my heart of heart I believe that Jesus died on the cross for me and took away ALL of my sins, but in my mind I feel like the devil is putting all these thoughts in my head because he doesn't want to let go, and I feel like he's winning. I pray to God every day to get rid of these thoughts. I know they wont go away immeaditly, but it's really weighing on my heart. Please pray for me to get through this.

I was wondering if anyone has also been here in there life? What did you do to reafirm your faith. All advice is appreciated. God bless.

Dear Lionheart,

I have been in your situation. At the age of 15-16 I had the same thoughts. How can God be real? Does he really intervene in people's lives? Satan uses the mind to wedge in doubt...if you let it take root...it can grow like an unruly ivy vine... I was not as strong as you to step out and ask other christians for help or advice on the matter. I just slowly backslid and only found God once again at the age of 21. Same thing, I grew up in the south, where almost everyone is christian. Well, at 21 God sent a hurricane my way. When the water starts spraying under the door into the room...you find God rather quickly. I used to be stubborn....so God had to do it this way to knock some sense into me, I guess. So, I give you a lot of credit for reaching out. That alone, shows your sincerity and heart. Submit yourself to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you James 4:7 I go to an Assembly of God church. I know a lot of them are based in the south as well. It is an awesome, bible teaching church and they have great programs and outings for others in the 18-29 year range. It really doesn't matter where you go, just that you pick a strong bible based church. Sing praises to The Father daily. When you sing, the presence of the Lord will choke out any strongholds the enemy is trying to use against your mind. If you are having doubt, simply say the name of Jesus out loud. The devil has to flee, he can't stand it. Ask God to reveal Himself to you. He will do it, He has done it for me -- many times. Try to read the Bible daily, if you can to build your faith. God won't hit you with a ruler, if you skip one night He mercy and grace are never ending....

Hugs,

Caroline

 

[Pizzaguy]

Just think, there are hundreds maybe thousands of 49 year olds who dont know what you already understand about 'Ol Weird Harold.

You're probably doing pretty well.

Hitch really nailed it there. :D


At 19, I had been saved two years... and I was struggling just like you are, 777! Hang around here, you'll get good advice - but know this - I'd bet most of us have been where you are!

Welcome to "Normal".

 

[farouk]

L777:

Hi!!!!

How are you doing???

Remember: Paul speaks of 'washing of water by the word'. We need to base our thoughts and hearts on Biblical concepts and keep looking to the Lord Jesus, the Savior. See also Philippians 4.7.

God bless His Word to you.

 

[LionHeart777]

Thankyou all fo rthe advice. It feels like it's getting better, but then it gets worse:/

 

[Fire_inside21]

When you started praying daily and reading your bible, you gave Satan the hint that you are being serious about what you want. Now that he knows you are serious, he is now trying to get you to remove your faith from your life completely through all the doubt. Since it's all overwhelming you, call out to Jesus to help you through it. He is not just there, he is there to help with any problems in your life. As you continue to pray and read your bible, Satan will try all the harder to stop you from talking with God and studying his word. Just don't give up on this, Satan wants you to and give into his lies. Remember, your creator loves you and wants you to worship him and he will help you if you just call out to him.

 

[Still Blessed]

I have SO been there and still am! Every time I think things are going better, something happens. It's amazing how the devil will put temptations before you when you are trying to serve the Lord. Satan knows exactly what your weaknesses are and he will use every one of them to the best of his ability to draw you back into his web of lies and destruction. Keep praying, keep looking up. Trust God when He says He will never leave you nor forsake you. My Grandma used to always say, "Get behind Thee, Satan." My prayers are with you in this.

 

[Fire_inside21]

I do have a book in the bible you can read, Psalms is the best one I can think of. Some of the prayers could help you through this.

 

[LionHeart777]

I'll read psalms soon. I reading the book of Mark atm. Thankyou all for the prayers.
I think what hurts the most is that when I have these thoughts, I feel like I'm letting Jesus down and he wont forgive me.

 

[Sam21]

I'll read psalms soon. I reading the book of Mark atm. Thankyou all for the prayers.
I think what hurts the most is that when I have these thoughts, I feel like I'm letting Jesus down and he wont forgive me.

The ole devil loves to put an evil thought into our head and then condemn us for thinking it,just ask God for forgiveness in Jesus name and in time the devil will see that you are no fun and will go somewhere else. The devil wants to see you squirm,be calm and confident and he will run.

 

[LionHeart777]

I'm really trying. I went to my old church today to try and give it another chance. I even had these
thoughts of doubt in church:/ This feels like a battle that he's already won.

 

[Sparkey]

I'm really trying. I went to my old church today to try and give it another chance. I even had these
thoughts of doubt in church:/ This feels like a battle that he's already won.

Greetings LionHeart777 -- the battle is already won. The devil is correct about that (that the battle is over). But the part that he is lying about is who the victor is. If your heart condems you? God is greater and understands. We have an advocate who is Jesus and he too was tempted. So He knows what it feels like.

The truth that Jesus triumphed openly over sin and death was proclaimed by the fact that He was resurrected. Now, I know that you believe this. What is left? Resist sin. Love the bretheren and consider God in all things. We are to take up our cross daily and follow after Him.

Can I convince you that Jesus died and we never heard from Him again? I think no. No matter what I tried to say, you would still know the truth. "My sheep know my voice and will not follow another." The truth of the victory at the cross is declared by the fact that He was raised from the dead. That's the victory. Death had no hold on Him and they who follow after him, who love God and show it by loving others can not be captured but are free.

I would just like to encourage you to continue in those things that you already know.

 

[LionHeart777]

Update: Things seem to be getting worse by the day. I pray to God every day to help me
through this, and to help get rid of all this doubt. I read my bible everyday, and when I pray
I tell Jesus that I can't do this without him, but things keep getting worse. I feel like I can't do
this anymore..

 

[Sam21]

Update: Things seem to be getting worse by the day. I pray to God every day to help me
through this, and to help get rid of all this doubt. I read my bible everyday, and when I pray
I tell Jesus that I can't do this without him, but things keep getting worse. I feel like I can't do
this anymore..

The ball is in your court Bud, you can chose to believe or chose to doubt...God is waiting to see your choice, if you chose to believe then God will help you.

 

[LionHeart777]

The ball is in your court Bud, you can chose to believe or chose to doubt...God is waiting to see your choice, if you chose to believe then God will help you.

Not the most encouraging thing ever, but ok. I do believe in God, otherwise I wouldn't worry about my faith.
But I feel like it's weakened, and I don't know how to reafirm it.

 

[Sam21]

Not the most encouraging thing ever, but ok. I do believe in God, otherwise I wouldn't worry about my faith.
But I feel like it's weakened, and I don't know how to reafirm it.

It is up to you,you have been given the ability by God to believe God, IF you chose to do it. Step right up to the plate and declare that you KNOW God is you Father and Jesus is your Saviour. Don't worry about your faith,you make the choice to believe and God will develope your faith. Step into the ring and began to fight,do not back down and never give up. Just keep your eyes on Jesus Christ and do not care about anything else...God WILL help you.