I’ve been away for so long, and now I’m grieved to read this entry. I always enjoyed your entries and writing immensely.
But I understand how the needs of our lives change, and I’m sure that God will bless you in all you do. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas with us, for taking the risks inherent in honesty, for treating us to your delightful humor.
Nada said it more eloquently than I exactly how I feel about your departure.
You're writing, and not just your blog, has touched me deeply, and I count myself blessed to have had the opportunity to read your words of wisdom, and best of all to get to know you.
I will miss you, but I also wave goodbye with a smile, because I know God smiles on you no matter where you are.
May God continue to bless you and your writing so you may continue to touch others as you have touched so many here.
Good thoughts here. Some will say that there was wine mentioned in the Bible, but I'm told that 1)it was much weaker than what is served today and 2) they drank wine because the water wasn't very good (clean or whatever).
In my family, there are alcoholics all around - all sides, all shapes, both genders. Sure makes one cautious about ever, ever becoming addicted.
You're sooooooooo right about whether or not one could invite Jesus to tag along with us. (He does anyway!)
I do not drink. But I don't think alcohol or the abuse of it is central to Christian teachings. That said ... it is sad when anyone is addicted. There are many Christians here in the alleyways who cannot not win over that addiction to the bottle. But that is not as sad in Kansas as the hoardes of Christians who think they are better than others, belly up to the bar ... zig-zagging all the way home.
Wasn't it Aristotle who said something like "Everything in moderation"? I always say it's not the thing that's bad, but the heart that uses it. Alcohol is the same way. If one drinks a glass of wine for mere enjoyment, or as a complement to their meal, that's one thing. If it's to alter their mood, as if they can't feel relaxed or happy without it, that's something else.
Being surrounded by alcoholics most of my life and seeing how destructive alcohol can be, I relate to this entry. I don't blame the alcohol, but I do blame the person who allowed it to become 'necessary' to their living from day to day.
I also agree that Christians must watch their actions in whatever they engage in, and you stated the reasons why perfectly.
I relate well to what Texun4ever-cabin fever said as well. I always question whether or not people see Jesus in me. However, that we even ask the question is a positive thing, because how else are we supposed to know the things we need to change?
Very interesting entry. Gives me a lot to think about. I often struggle with the whole "it's OK to drink, but not OK to get drunk" issue. I struggle with my relationship with God. Not in the sense that I go back and forth about Christianity, but rather my luke-warmness. And we all know what the Bible says about your faith being lukewarm. It seems as if my faith is like my diets. I'm really excited and dedicated for a couple of weeks, but then it just kind of dies out. When I find myself out of touch with God I try and think about that old standard hymn "Let Others See Jesus In You." I doubt anyone would see Jesus in me or know I have him in my heart. And that makes me sad.
I would say that your example of the woman giving up smoking is about relinquishing her will for God's will, especially since it was combined with a prayer offered by her to Him to be more desirous of God than the cigarette...and you are sooo right, our testimonies can be very powerful.
I agree but I also disagree. I agree God is far more appreciative of what we do in His name for our fellowman than giving up chocolate or candy or dessert. I believe, however that any sacrifice that grows us closer to the Lord and more like Hiim is a good choice for lent.
For example- our previous pastor told us of a member of another church who gave up smoking for lent. (I know it's different than dessert but...) Every time she wanted a cigarette she prayed to God to make her want Him more than the cigarette and eventually did manage to quit. My point is that she did something for herself, she learned she could do anything by relying on God and she spent alot of time talking to God....
I'm not giving up anything for Lent, I am choosing to be more intentionally involved with God. I believe that God appreciates anything we give up for Him as long as we understand the reason behind what we are giving up and do it in the spirit of growing to be more like Him.
That said, I think you also make some very valid points..and the choices we make in giving up something for lent should continue on through the rest of the year..not just that 40 days. The money saved by giving up caffeine, or chocolate could be given to a homeless shelter or someone who needs it. The struggle with any addiction and overcoming can when shared give a teenager or other person struggling hope. It's in choosing to share...the method of growing closer to Him and more like Him is up to the individual.
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