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=> Testimonies / Prayer Requests / Fellowship => Topic started by: hebrewroots98 on December 21, 2006, 06:14:03 PM
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Dear Friends and Family of HaShem!
I am struggling to deal with the following problem: Twentysix years ago (when I was in the 'institutional church'), when I began my spiritual walk as a babe in
Christ, I felt that it was MY RESPONSIBLITY to SAVE MY FAMILY MEMBERS (FROM GOING TO 'HELL'), thus, I was RELENTLESS in not letting up on them; THEY were my MISSION FIELD in life since I loved them so much! In that time and in that process, I offended, disrespected, and flat out ignored any kind requests to leave them alone with 'my preaching'. It has come to the point that 'I' have now made myself as an OUTCAST in my own family (of which there are inlaws and extended family members -alot of family members whom all think of me as an fanatic whom will never stop talking about God and never stop preaching at them. Some have written me off completely, others have ignored any of my attempts to communicate with them; others just tolerate me.
It hasn't been until I had found BT by Ray (a year ago) that I finally stopped living as though I were their Holy Spirit by trying to convict and convince them of their erring spiritual truths. I now have come to the point of where I live my life as to "live and let live" so to speak. Having gone (way back then) through seminary and being an apprentice missionary made it difficult for me to not 'evangelize' and use that gift of evangelism that I had been given. (In this case it turned into a curse for them instead of a blessing.)
The irony is that now that I have changed and God has convicted me of HIS truths for once, I have lost all respect from them to be able to teach them (via my daily example) of all of these news truths. (To some of them this is just 'some new fad of info that I have learned' and that I want to share with them.) I have prayed for Gods' wisdom in how to get back into their lives, but I'm not sure at this point how to go about it. I deal with some of them on a regular basis and they are getting the idea that this change is finally for real, but the others won't return any of my attempts to communicate w/ them and they are the one's that I am fearful that I have offended them beyond repair.
What is worse is that all of this Chaos and sacrificing has negatively affected my relationship with my dear husband and my beautiful 8 yr old child. Our relationship have suffered due to my not taking advice from my husband about just 'forgetting' my noncaring family members and my inability to know how to deal with them over all of these years. I am not one to just 'forget' ones' whom have done me wrong. My husband sees that all they care about is themselves and that they don't care for us as they think they do (and they especially have hurt our child emotionally.)
My question is this; should I attempt to appologize of the past indescretions or would they think that this is just another attempt to preach at them. This is a fine line that I don't want to cross for fear of loosing them FOREVER. I feel that GOD did not put me in this family just to loose them in the end. Is there anyway to get them back into my life?
(A miricle happened in the same month this year with 4 males in my immediate family recently; they all broke the generational curse of severe drug and alcohol addiction and they are free from that bondage finally.) Baruch HaShem (praise God)!
One last thing. I have also spent the last 26 yrs working with my extremely drug addicted family members and have always sacrificed and been there for them when they needed me to help them to get out of that horrible lifestyle (while not codepending with them;) however, this last summer I really blew it. I had 2 of my brothers living with us (both were DETOXING at my house- after 26 yrs on crack/meth/ice-you name it) and while being stressed to the max w/ them being here, I snapped (after seeing no change in 26 yrs) and let them both 'have it'. I wasn't pretty and I am very ashamed of letting my flesh go like that and kicking them both out (again). One of the two brothers refuses to talk to me now and he has no intention of changing his mind! Do I attempt to apologize to him? How do I reach him? I tried to appologize but he won't receive my calls.
I'm sorry, I didn't expect this to be so long! Thank you all for your patience! I look forward to hearing some 'truth' from you all!
blessings,
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Susan, you can attempt to apologise; they may or may not accept it. Don't let this become more of an idol of the heart. As hard as it may be, just let it go and continue to concentrate on Jesus, your husband, and your children. God will take care of the rest of your family in His time frame. I suggest re-reading Ray's "Twelve Truths", "Winning souls for Jesus", "The kiss of death", and "Praying by Gods rules."
My moto is keep my mouth shut UNLESS they ask. And that is very hard for me. I kinda let my flesh get the best of me in the coffee shop the other day when someone stated December 25 was the Birthday of Jesus the Christ. I asked them to show me the Scripture that states that and I was told there is no Scripture proving that but that does not mean it's not His birthday. I then stated that there is Scripture proving that our Lord was not born in Dec, but they did not want to hear that and the conversation was about to turn ugly, so I zipped it up.
I hope this helps; I'm sure others will have Scripture to give you.
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Susan,
Thanks for notifying me by phone that this post was up. I finally got my son's jumparoo and peek a dome put together. He is asleep and does not know they are in the living room. I can hardly wait until he gets up.
I may modify my post a lot so check it out in the few days.
It is a fine line that you are being asked to walk here. Yes by all means apologize to them. The Scripture that says if you remember you have something to resolve with your brother, go, leave your ofering, and make things right with your brother, and then come back and worship me. To those of you who know Scripture better than I do, I apologize for my slaghtering of it. [NOTE: I have a good memory of the gist of Scriptures but have no idea how to recite them verbatim as well as tell you where they are. I would appreciate if someone could post where this Scripture is coming from]. The thing that I think is bugging you the most is the fact that you have not apologized for your actions. Please, please by all means apologize for the things that you KNOW you have done. If in your heart you know you did it apologize for it Ask their forgiveness.
I have recently have problems with my family and this is how I resolved it. I called and asked for their forgiveness after a heartful and soulful apology. Their were many tears and laughs exchanged, but I then ended the conversation with, Let NOT my words speak for me, but let my ACTIONS speak. It has been a long ardous road that has taken much time, but it is so worth it. Both circumstances they told me that they wanted me to apologize and ask for their forgiveness. They were pleased that I wanted to base my apology off of my actions rather than words. If you have patience and the stamina for this method, this will mean so much to them. I find out with this method that people are all the more forgiving.
As for them thinking whether this is an oppourtunity for you to preach to them that is just a normal human tendency to use the past to cloud present and future times. Yes your past record shows this, but your actions will surely show that you have changed from the person that you were in the past. They will see this, though it may take weeks, monthes, or even years.
God's intention for our family is that we will all eventually get together whether that be in this time or in eternity. God's will is perfect, though our understanding of his will is imperfect. Just pray for them and Let Go, and Let GOD.
I thought it was quite funny that I was reciting several responses to your post to you on the phone before I had finished reading the post. As several of those responses are personal, I will leave those out. I will post and remodify this post as I am felt led to. We will talk about this some more tonight.
Much love and prayer for your family,
Anne C. McGuire
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Susan,
I too have many problems with relatives that think that I am stark raving mad, gone off the deep end, won't talk with me and generally think I'm hopeless. They thought that Jesus was of the devil too. When I first came to BT and realized that the Lord will only let those see whom He will let see, it gave me a real rest in my spirit. Not that I did'nt try to witness when given the opportunity, but if they did'nt listen or did'nt receive the gospel, I did'nt worry about it anymore because only the Father can bring anyone to His Son. Re-read "Winning souls for Jesus." This is a great help to all of us. Nevertheless, I understand how you feel and will pray that God will enable you to bear your burden for you.
Love in Christ,
Dwight
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Here it is:
Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. (Mat 5:23-24 KJV)
Susan, I think that you should try to explain them that at that point in your life you believed in that way, and now you see that it was wrong. Tell them that you love them, and that you are sorry for the situation you are in now. Apologize and start all over again, if they want to. If they don't, then be patient. I hope and pray that your family problems will be resolved.
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Dwight,
What a momentous truth, it is NOT us who bring people to God, it is Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Wow, I wish that major evangelists would realize this. We wonder why church attendence and other things of that nature are dying, now we know why. I am wondering if others would rather hear that God wants them to be in a relationship with Him and he predestined them to be, rather than the fact that it is their personal choice and they are condemned if they do not choose that relationship. That to me is perfect love and perfect trust. I think I am going to begin a new toipic on this. I think I must have struck some deep thinking on this one. More on this later.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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Susan, don't forget that EVERY single thing you ever did to or for your family was God's plan-the good and the bad.So when you think about "your mistakes" be comforted that you did exactly what God wanted you to do.
Of course pray for them and live your life as Paul teaches us, but put the past behind.
Maybe your family will respond or not, but your first priority is not THEM- it is for your hubby and child. (I am sorry, that is too strong of advice-take kindly)
My family would never listen to or accept apologies from anyone about anything. We all have been the type that don't speak for a while then when the whole family gets together we pretend nothing ever happened and just move on. Needless to say, I don't get together with my side that much. Never talk politics, religion or feelings!!!! Most were never Christians and don't want me to tell them anything.
Next week I will be with my own adult children and my husband's side. (I spoke about this on PKnowlers post about this same thing). They are all "Christian" but I don't plan on bringing anything up. If they do I only hope I answer in love.
Boy, families are kind of a hassle!! But God loves them more than we can possibly love them and we must realize that we can't help God. He will drag them when it is their time.
After this 2nd post I realize I am a little unsettled over my family visit next week and most of this advice is to me!!
Love,
gena
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Hello Gena
You wrote : most of this advice is to me!!
Yesterday I was just thinking about the posts I have been privileged to contribute on the Forum and it came to my mind that I get to read them first because I need them most! :D It has been a cathartic healing and often enlightening experience to search my thoughts and feelings. The words I come up with often have a way with me first rather than me having a way with them as I too am edified often by what I write! So I can relate to what you say! :D
Peace to you
Arcturus :)
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Gena,
Yep totally can relate. It is so much easier for me to see the speck in other's eyes and to overlook that huge ole beam. It seems so cool that the things that we end up posting is advice and exhortations that we ourselves need to hear. Ahhhhh the power of subliminal messages.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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Hello Susan
I too have had to make my profuse apologies to a person for my one sided off track zeal that was right out of Mystery Babylon teachings in the past. In one particular instance the person I apologised to was a very intelligent, aware and level headed person which made the apology more difficult for me. Needless to say, my explanation and how I could see now that I was out of line was received with grace! :D
After been introduced to the truth I saw that my previous discussions with this person were to be recanted and I said that I was embarrassed and felt corrected in my thinking as I got the next opportunity when they came for supper at our home. He laughed and the tension in my heart was set at rest immediately. I have seen first hand how false teachings can spur dissention, tensions and divisions. Little wonder. Hateful heresy can produce no good fruit! :D
I have another person on my list on heart I have yet to make my apologies to God willing. That person is in England! :D
I believe God willed in my life, these embarrassments and caused my desire to show my repentance to these particular precious people in who’s life only God knows how He is leading them through their circumstances. :D
Peace to you
Arcturus :)
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Hello Susan,
According to God's will for your life you have not failed. We all have made mistakes in our lives and I am sure I will make many more myself.
When I first was lead to the truths that God so lovingly and graciously revealed to me I was guilty of the very same thing but I learned from it and I do believe you have too.
Here are some verses that come to mind:
Philippians 3:12-14
12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Proverbs 16:7
7 When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
bobby(bob)
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A magnificent pos Bobby
Non can do better than the word of God.
Grounding, edifying and uplifting. Thank you
Peace to you
Arcturus :)
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Dear Patrick, Anne, Dwight, Erik, Gena, Arcturus, and Bob,
I just sat and typed up an extremely indepth email to you all about how all of your adomonitions and encouraging words and truths that y'all shared with me has helped me tremendously to begin to tackle this issue, but... I GOT DISTRACTED AND I GUESS I HIT A BUTTON AND MY LONG DETAILED MESSAGE WENT INTO CYBERSPACE OR SOMEWHERE ??? ??? B/C IT IS NOWHERE TO BE FOUND NOW!!! :'( (Now that bothers me b/c I got very deep with you all; now I'm out of time and can't go back and rewrite all of it over again.) :-\
Let me just say that I took EVERY WORD to heart that each of you wrote. Thanks from the bottom of my heart b/c you encouraged me and lifted a big burden that I couldn't have done without all of you. I am now able to look realistically and spiritually at how to deal with my family; I must have been too emotionally attatched to help myself. I am thankful to God for bringing you into my life; y'all were the missing element in my life that I needed and didn't know how to find.... Thank you for your truth, understanding, and love. I am amazed everyday as I read on the forum at how God has blessed me with like minded believers as you are. I appreciate that you were not being judgemental or harsh with me. I now have the truth in my heart to finally try to make things right with 4 individuals and 4 families in my immediate and extended family.
I will now write to my relatives and see what the outcome is. Yes, I must start all over (after I apologise, ask for their forgiveness, and let them know that I love them.) God is in control and His will will be done. I will let you know as soon as I know how they recieved it. I'm waiting for a praise report...
ps- the scriptures were perfect!
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Hey Susan!
That has happened to me too :D and it makes me realize that God is causing my circumstances ;D......
As I was reading your post it came to my heart after I read :AND MY LONG DETAILED MESSAGE WENT INTO CYBERSPACE OR SOMEWHERE B/C IT IS NOWHERE TO BE FOUND NOW!!! ....that your post, did not go into cyberspace or somewhere....it went STRAIGHT TO THE HEART OF GOD..... ..8) .....
We know that we can do NOTHING without HIM and you give us all to walk in good works HE has pre-ordained for us as you bless us.....and He through you and each other gives us HIS heart and love.
Also we do not have to get puffed up as we keep our eyes on Our Lord keeping His eyes on us!
Peace and love to you my sister
Arcturus :)
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Amen sister!
I too thought of that after I had already posted it; yes, God did mean for that message to not get through for some unknown (to me) reason.
That really touched my heart when you said that the message ended up at the heart of God. Wow; very sweet indeed!! (that one I didn't 'get'!) you have a great spiritual insight, thanks!
You are half way around the world from the USA; aren't yall about 8 or so hours ahead of the USA and isn't it dark there right now? Are you African or American and just visiting there? I find it interesting that others are on ths site from so far away from here.
Blessings,
Susan
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PRAISE GOD for how you received the words. I'm feeling so honored having contributed to you feeling better!
God be with you and your family as you go through this part of your lives.
How wonderful it must be for you to start over again knowing this:
And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. (1Jo 2:2 KJV)
PS. You mentioned something about distance and day/night. I'm from Norway, half way around the world from the US and about half way up! 8)
Here nowadays it's dark most of the day, but today was the darkest day, and now it's getting brighter and brighter!
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also. And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth, And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good. (Gen 1:16-18 KJV)
In my part of the world we see more of the "lesser light" in the wintertime, and in the summertime more of the "greater light". These variations are amazing if you think about it. One "day", half a year, with darkness, and another "day", half a year, with light"!
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Hello there Sue
Yes I am in Africa. Time now 11.18 pm. I am a late night owl! :D Also costs much less to be on internet after 7pm so I do not go on line in the day time.
I was born in Rhodesia. My parents were (both asleep now ;D) British Collonial immigrants to Africa. My Mother from Irish and Scottish decent and my Father from Russian Jewish decent. Ashkinazi (spelling!....sorry!)
.... thank you for your kind sensitive words. I see you reflectied ithrough you a compassionatly supportive spirit in the Forum especially towards those who are suffering hardships and trials.....It blesses me...to see HIM throughyou
Peace to you
Arcturus :)
PS Eggi is in Norway!...wonder what time it is there....won't know though...not tonight...its off line time for me now. Peace to you too Eggi.... :)
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hey Eirik!
Did not see your edit ahead of my "Post" button sent my post. We must have crossed paths in CyberSpace ;D
Peace to you
Arcturus :)
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I just wanted to respond to your guys posts. I am sorry that I was gone, but it was a wonderful afternoon.
Susan,
I just was very encouraged that you took the words and they have helped you out. This is wonderful that this online forum exists for this very purpose, to bolster one another in the Faith. Yes this is what the CHURCH is truly meant to be. Praise God. Please do keep us updated. You are in my prayers as well as my husband's.
Arcturus,
Once again you beat me to the punch saying that Susan's post went to straight to the heart of God. I am so glad you posted this. Wow you seem to be online as late as I am LOL. That could be the reason that I am tired. ;D
Eggi,
Wow Norway. That's somewhere I would like to visit. I wish it would be dark down here in Texas, as we get so much sunlight. :)
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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;D
Arcturus I saw that notice yeah, we were posting in the same time. ;) Think about it, those who are in United States are receiving messages from the future??? We are some hours ahead of them! :o
;D
Anne, I'd like to visit Texas, maybe we could do an exchange? :D
Good night/day all!
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Oooooohhhhhhhhhhhhh
:o Submlinal messages from the future. :o
Now that's cool. Good night you two.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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:oOOOOOhhhhhh Anne,
I saw that! ;) ;) Your post just crossed my cyber pathway!!! (ha, your only about 4 miles from me though! Whereas
Africa and Norway is a mile or two beyond that... :o) (how about 8,000 miles or so beyond here)
see ya in a little while...
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Susan,
;D What can I say? ;D I think we are all meant to be crossing eachother's cyberspace. Now this is a riot. I nearly had a fit when I read your last post. ROFLOL :D :D
Oh man, I had a feeling you were posting. That's why you said it would be a half an hour before you came and got us LOL. It was becuase you were not done posting. Hah, Get out of my head Susan, I was just thinking the same thing. Oh good, they're not coming right now, I am going to go and check on the forum and do some posting. And wow, our paths crossed yet once again.
Yeah, on the forum it seems like all the others are just a keystroke away and distance is all but forgotten in this forum. I like that.
"Anyhootie" I will see you later.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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Susan bless your heart my dear friend. It just thrills my heart when I can come to this forum and read the happenings in each of our lives and the thoughts that each of us have.
It helps me so much to know that I am not alone in my feelings and thoughts and the day to day situations that we all experience.
Your starting this thread and many others like it show me the love and understanding that God has so beautifully given each one of us towards one another.
God has revealed some very important truths to me and to you Susan and many others here that are not "contained in the books". That being how much love He can give to each of us and to realize just how beautiful and wonderful our brothers and sisters from far away can communicate to one another and we may never see one another face to face, BUT to know He has touched each one of us and we can share and edify from this complex machine called a computer.
There is not a day that goes by that I do not think about what is going on with each of you. I come to this forum and I see and read what you all go through and I can touch and feel you all through this Spirit of or God and it is all I have and I am thankful to you all.
Susan you have done a wonderful thing when you started this thread and I want to thank you with all my heart for being like minded and sharing with us. You have blessed me in a way you could never imagine. You Susan have showen me and taught me something very important and that is that just when I think my problems,trials and situations are the worst, I learn that my brothers and sisters are hurting and going through tough situations and I need to deny myself and love and care for you all. To put aside the selfish beast I am at times and care for you all and put myself last.
Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Thank you Susan for follwing God and coming here to each of us and I thank God for you my sister and friend.
I love you Susan,
bobby
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Hello Anne
You observed : Once again you beat me to the punch saying that Susan's post went to straight to the heart of God.
...perhaps not beating you to any punch but you being called in as second witness? 8)
Eggi I always enjoy your posts. You bring a delightful and original perspective.
Bobby you are so right in what you say. It is always helpful to look past oneself. I have sent e-mail correspondence to the authorities and Government regarding my career that has been hijacked through lawlessness and greed. I feel okay now that I have seen that it is God who causes my circumstances. is one has been painful but it has set me free also to depend and rely more fully on HIM. I am grateful to HIM that he is patient with me in my limited mindset. He has set my feet on another chapter unfolding in my life and I trust He knows how to love, keep and provide for me and cultivate me into stronger spiritual well being within circumstances that appear hopeless. It is not that HE wishes to strengthen my circumstances and keep me spiritually weak. On the contrary. Streght comes from turning to God alone for support when we fail or are weak not to get strong against our circumstances but to recieve mercy grace and HIS unmerited favour.
I believe my profession is now over and I may or may not recieve more business in the future but that is Okay. My career is not my provider not because I am materially wealthy but because my God owns the Universe and He is my Father. He is super-able and abundantly over and above all I dare hope or can ask able to give me in His wisdom what is best for me. His will be done! :D Only HE can strengthen me and He blesses me so much through this Forum and through HIS disclosures of His secrets that He is keeping hidden from the world. I am rich because He helps me to communicate His Sprit of love and wisdom sometimesw and that for me is so soulfully enriching an encounter with Him and His love that I loose the words to continue........
Peace to you all
Arcturus :)
Peace and love to all
Arcturus
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Dear Bobby,
Wow; what an encouragement you just were!!!!!!! I say ditto to all that you just said. Amen!
I find it quite unique, but, delightful that everytime that I log onto this site, I experience (in just a matter of seconds) all of these different feelings simultaniously. I love this forum b/c I can come here and be accepted, loved, encouraged and understood without judgement; while, at the same time I can do the same for you all too. Plus, coming here does something that I have rarely experienced in my 45 years which is that when I get on this site, I simultainiously begin feeling so loved and honored by you all and your words, while at the same time I feel humbled and totally undeserving of such love and ecouragement from ones whom I have never met- while all at the same time I cry in my heart and spirit thanking God for blessing me with you and the others here on the forum, b/c you all mean so much to me; while at the same time I am feeling overjoyed!!! Wow, thank you all too.
Yes, I too think about you all everyday and look forward to this fellowshiping, (as I have only three people in my life (in person) with whom I can fellowship with about these wonderful truths.) (Bobby, your signature picture encourages me too; I love that picture.) It is life to me on a daily basis to hear from you all and to do what I can to help you, my Godly family!!! Bobby, you have been given by God a heart of compassion and it shows. I needed to hear what you just said, thank you and blessings back to you! I am the one whom usually tries to strengthen others and it is rare that I get strengthened, so thanks again everyone! I love and thank you all more than words can say. I can't imagine what could be better in life than this ....Well, yes I can; meeting each of you in person and giving you a great big hug!
God is so AWESOME for bfinging you all into my days!!!
Eggi and Anne, I love that ....BEING CALLED AS A SECOND WITNESS;y'all are so wise!!!
Arcturus, You have done extremely well in how you've received God's will in your unfortunate circumstances. It sounds like He has something really great in mind for you. Your doing good, keep it up and continue to wait on Him...
Love to all of you,
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Thank you for the encouragement and exhortation Sue :)
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Arcturus,
Now, that's a great way to think about that. Once I realized that there was no punch and that I was being called a second witness, wow that was awesome. Your faith is shining out so strong. To see you speak of what your heart says with no reservations and to be in that zone. You have been a blessing to me.
Bobby,
Thanks for posting that. I feel that every time I come on. I feel, wow, now we are going to have REAL CHURCH. No condemnation, no having to mangage apperances, and no hypocrisy. I mean it's like recess in here becuase I love you and all the other guys who post in here. It makes my little day when I click on unread topics since you have last visited becuase I am thinking wow, what new wisdom and love will I find here today. And I keep finding more and more good things.
Susan,
Kind of makes TMM look pretty sick right now does it not? We look forward to seeing you around and getting your posts. I have enjoyed the last 8 days with you all. Thanks so much. David, David-Lee, and I love you very much. Say hi to the 8 year old and give that hubby of yours a hard time for me. ;D Tell him next year I am going to get him another alarm clock. :D
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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Anne
you observed : It makes my little day when I click on unread topics since you have last visited becuase I am thinking wow, what new wisdom and love will I find here today. And I keep finding more and more good things.
That speaks my unspoken thoughts too! :DHow wonderful that our thoughts and feelings are being woven together by the Spirit of love and truth and that we are given to experience His work through with and each one of us!
Peace and love to you Sister
Arcturus :)
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Arcturus,
How wonderful that our thoughts and feelings are being woven together by the Spirit of love and truth and that we are given to experience His work through with and each one of us!
This reminded me of something. I cannot remember it verbatum, but the gist of it goes like this. God and somebody was talking one day. They were questioning about their life and how everything was working. God then showed them a tapestry. They could not see what God was doing at the moment with the tapestry becuase all they could see was the backside. They could somehow get a general idea of what colors there were and things of that nature. They saw many knots and things that were not pleasing to the eye. God then asked this person to come around to the front. When they got to the front of the tapestry all they could do is stare at it in awe. The colors and the knots began to make sense. Each color stood out and yet the tapestry is perfect. It's the same thing with this forum. We all know and feel the love and know that God has brought us together for a beautiful purpose. He also has allowed us to work in eachother's lives through prayers, encouragement, and sounding boards. Only he can see the front of the tapestry, but we can see the hints of color and the knots. I know it is truly a masterpiece, and that is my excitement everytime I interact with you all. Oh if we could see clearly but one day we will. "Lo, I see dimly as through a glass or something of that nature, but one day I will see face to face." [Note: Sorry again if I butchered that.] Oh may that day hasten even more.
Got a question. Anyone know a good concordance online that does not operate using java based platforms? If so, please post the link or pm me. Thanks.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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It is so amazing to me that I can have fellowship with people all around the world. People that I have told this to just dn't get it!..
I think about all of you every day too. I can't wait till I have time to get on and see how everyone is doing. I even think about vacation since I will be with relatives all week..when can I sneak away for awhile and see how my brothers & sisters are...
If I don't post for awhile thats why. I don't think you newbies know Jennie that well. I can't wait to hear from her regularly again. She has gone thru so much recently. So many great people coming like Anne & Sue who become part of our family so easily. I love all the new ones who introduce themselves but don't post so much. Thats ok! I didn't get to know everyone at "real church" either. MG and her son, Lacey, Andrevan & his wife, Mongoose, Sean, Deb, Ruth Marie & her family, Brian & Anne, Abed's health, Nancy in London, Losohe in Malaysia, Viktoriya from Russia, Prosizz in Ivory Coast, Arcturus in Africa, Eirik in Norway. I miss Sorin & Isabell & Zander & Nelson, and the Chucks, Gary, Becky, Andy, Rodger, Graham, and so many others....The wisdom and love from Bobby, Joe, Kat, Iris, Rene, Longhorn, Yellowstone,Kennymac, Sandy, Dennis and other mods,.. Gosh there are so many. I shouldn't have started this cuz now I am having a brain freeze and know I have forgotten to name many that are dear to me. Then there are the silent but faithful readers (I hate that "lurkers" term).
I said all that to say this...The Lord has us here cuz He wants us here to love, learn, and care about others. Please forgive if I didn't mention you. I ran out of steam.
Have a mer...Happy, no, ummm, Seasons.... Uh if you are eating a lot and see lots of relatives then have a Great Time.
I will see ya when I get back!!
Love to ALL,
gena
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Gena,
What a post. I hope you have a good next week. Yeah we are busy for the next few days and perhaps the next week. Things are really not winding down like I thought they would be. I keep telling myself that things will calm down about the second week of January. I do not think that will happen. Yet in all of this there is much to be thankful and to look forward to.
Have a great time.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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Amen!
gena
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Well you guys did it to me and I am sure others also. You make my heart jump,my eyes swell with tears and if I get any happier I will probably do flip flops around the house and the wife has already told me " Bob I wish you would do that outdoors" ;D ;D
Susan dear sweet Susan this just goes to show you, others here,those reading but not posting and myself that when we can all share,ask questions and edify one another, OUR HEAVENLY FATHER is very pleased and I can personally say that the fellowship here is more than I ever imagined it could ever be.
John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
2 Peter 1:10-11
10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
11For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Love to you all,
bobby
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Bobby,
I was sqealing with delight last night at this thread and my hubby did not know what to think about it. Yet, my little one thought it was all good, becuase I kept him laughing for a litle while.
;D I got a good visual of you doing flip flops. ;D My advice, - go ahead and do them. Your wife will understand, well sort of :D.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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Anne what a delight it is to know I could help a little child laugh. They get this look in their little face and all you see is gums at that age and that wonderful twinkle in there precious eyes. You made my day Anne.
Love to you and the little one,
bobby
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Greetings everyone!
Just to let you know that I finally got 'the apology letter' typed up and copied off today and ready to send to my family members (thanks Anne, Hubby, and all of you for being in agreement with me as to just what to say.) Please just pray that they will be able to forgive my ignorance and that we can all get back into a loving relationship once again; and of course pray that HIS will be done in this matter. I will let you know as I get their responses in; I must wait until Tuesday before I can send it out (using snail mail) thus I won't be hearing from them until probably next weekend.
Most everyone is celebrating Christmas Eve as we speak and it is kind of eerie outside since ALL businesses are closed for a couple of days and the streets are quiet; even Wally World is taking time off. (We stopped celebrating xmas about 9 years ago.) We do however celebrate Hanukkah for eight consecutive days (and it just ended on Friday pm), as it is a tradition that we wanted our son to have, since we don't celebrate the other 'American/Gregorian Holidays), plus it makes him feel like he is not an outcast while the others are celebrating xmas; plus Yeshua celebrated the 'Miracle of Lights'. (Hanukkah was not actually a feast or festival of the First Testament, rather Hanukkah is just a great tradition that HE must have thought was a good enough tradition to celebrate (and our focus is always of course on Yeshua being the light of the world.) Our little guy loves it and has such a good time so it's worth it to us.
(sorry for ramblin' on!)
Blessings to you all :D
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Susan,
Don't apologize for rambling, I love it. ;D
Well congrats on getting your letter out. I really am proud of you and think that it shows how far you have come along in the short year that I have known you. KUDOS to you. Keep us updated on this, I am sure you will. And please know that we are going to pray for you and support you every step of the way.
Now you have planted the seed and watered it. Only God can make it grow. And he will, it just takes time. Don't check to see if the plant has grown, I know it is growing even now. One of these days you will not think to look at it, and you will see a huge bush where the ground was barren. Kind of like how much my son changes from day to day.
Thanks to you for everything that you have done. Tell your hubby that I will help him with his puter hopefully soon.
I love you lots.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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Of all my christmas's....I will remember this one, for sure. . . . . and it only early morning, so far. What better way to wake up reading these posts from my fellow brothers and sisters !! I cant remember how many years ago I stopped observing this holiday, but it's still so evident, as someone else already pointed out, that it is indeed christmas 'out there'. To come here everyday is such a blessing beyond understanding. And the dear sis that named a bunch of us, jotting down from where they were from.....there's just something in a spiritual heart that lets the tears come after reading something like that. We've all been reflecting so much of what is the same.....about being so blessed and thankful that we have the ability to gather here together of like mind, being 'woven together', ohhh....the list goes on and on and on. I won't try to add anymore words that have already been so eloquently stated, except......"it's just so totally awesome here!!" And I just wanted to chime in on how blessed it is to be waliking with God and being lead here, and becoming a part of His 'gathering of believers'.
Scribbles
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Scribbles,
I'm so glad that you were encouraged today. You encouraged us as well. Yes, it is AWESOME to have CHRIST(mas) in our lives EVERYDAY and to share CHRIST(mas)together in fellowship with each of you EVERYDAY; NOT JUST ONCE A YEAR. I too am still amazed at how this fellowship reaches all the way around the world and yet it seems like we are sitting across the table from one another and chatting.
Blessings to you sister.
Have a love-filled day.
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Hi Susan,
I just wanted to comment, since I have been following this thread and have found it moving.
Your sincere honesty and willingness to try and rectify the situation in your family, shows real character.
Whether they except how you are now or not, you have done your part to reconciliation.
gena, your post really expressed my own feeling toward this forum. You called to my mind all those that have become dear to me here.
I don't express my emotions well, so I tend not to post on these type threads, but I certainly read them and am helped greatly by them.
mercy, peace, and love to all my brothers and sisters,
Kat
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Thank you Kat, I appreciate that!!! :)
blessings!
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Hey guys; UPDATE;
I just heard from my mother today and she said that she received my 'letter' and she said..." THANKS FOR THE LETTER; I CAN SEE THAT YOU ARE REALLY SERIOUS AND THAT YOU HAVE REALLY CHANGED! I BELIEVE WHAT YOU SAID (ABOUT BEING SORRY FOR WHAT YOU'VE DONE IN THE PAST- NOT WANTING OR NEEDING TO BE PUSHY OR JUDGEMENTAL ANYMORE)..." She went on to give some compliments to me, which I have rarely ever heard from her in my life. THEN SHE WENT ON TO ASK ME SPIRITUAL QUESTIONS (which of course she would never have done without the apology letter!!! ABOUT 'DEATH' and other things, so (thanks Ray for having just posted on it, as it helped to refresh my memory and to be able to quickly 'give an account to those who inquire of the hope that is in me.") I'm telling you, that this has made my day today! (SO far, three positive responses!) I did get one brother who refuses to talk to me still, even after he read the letter! I annot worry about that tho, b/c as we know, it is all in Gods' timing.
I shall keep you updated on the rest of the responses as they come in. (Since I couldn't have done this without your prayers, guidance and encouragement! I Thank you all with all of my heart!)
Much love to you too :D
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Susan,
Wowweee we are up late. I still have not gone to bed. It is very unusual to have anything post on the forum until aroun 6 am central standard time, so imagine when I go and click on unread topics I find a whole slew of things to read.
I am glad that things worked out with your family. Now here's the most important thing, patience. Keep going on the way you are going and you will do fine.
I can't tell you how honored I have been to be a part of your healing and closure process. I have seen you grow from a woman who was frazzled when I first met them, to truly being a Proverbs 31 woman. You are awesome. I thank God everyday for you and your family in our lives.
Thanks. God Bless.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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Wow Anne, Frazzled is what you saw in me back then? That is a very interesting that you saw me in that light, as I never realized just how sad of a spiritual condition I was in till you mentioed this . What do you think it was that was causing my frazzledness back then? (This has me curious, b/c, I just need a reality check every once in a while and I want to see how others see me.)
( I know that that was a period of time before I understood this 'no hell' issue- in which not knowing these truths was enough to put wrinkles on anyones face...; plus, I was working outside of the hom (and in a jpb that was so offensive to my morals- directory assistance opperator (unbeleivable the things I heard!); homeschooling; and helping two families to get on their feet (one homeless and one poor and on drugs); plus, we were having a terrible chaotic time in the Messianic congregation that we were in and having to defend ourselves every step of the way; then, there was my family and my husbands family whom were causing so much chaos and whom alot of them disowned us; plus, I had been diagnosed with Gulf War Synderom and the Va was giving me a hard time about it; peri -menepasusal, just to mention a few hinderances ;) :) (So, now that you mention frazzled; I can now see that! :o :-\) As I can also now see why Gods' timing for me to finally come to an understanding of all of the BT's info. came when it did! HIS TIMING IS IMPECABLE; thank you Father for the peace that you replaced in my heart!:)
Thank you Anne for noticing and speaking up, and for seeing the Psalms 31 Woman in me; as I have always strived to be like her, and yet I have my days :). This made my day (again) ;D
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Susan,
What a great post. As to answer your first paragraph. There are many things that are meant for you alone and so we will talk on the phone or get together and talk about this. You did a great job in answering your question in your next paragraph.
I have been praying that you would come into peace in your life. And I can see that you are coming into that awareness and it is awesome. The difference that I see in you today is the difference night and day. You have come a long way.
I prayed before coming up with the Scripture to give you, and Proberbs 31 came up. Like I said on the phone, I was a little miffed, that was MINE. But I realize that Scripture is for everyone. You or I do not have to try to be anything. When we let go and just simply be we end up fufilling God's Scripture.
It is my prayer that in every action that I do that I leave a positive not on others lives that they can better themselves and feel better. I am glad that I have blessed you. Again God's blessings on you and yours.
I love you. Say hi to Daniel and Terry.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire
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Thank you for your prayers! :) I know that there are certain circunstances that are definate trials that must be over come in order for the joy to be able to come through and to shine in our lives! Sometimes it isn't easy to see that light at the end of the tunnel when one is in the midst of these trials.
But...THIS IS THE HOPE THAT IS IN ME... :D
WE ARE MORE THATN CONQUERERS... :D
WE ARE OVERCOMERS.. :D.
REFRFESHING COMES IN THE MORNING... :D
TO HIM THAT OVERCOMES, I WILL GIVE HIM THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN... :D
HE THAT WAITS UPPON THE LORD SHALL RENEW THEIR STRENGTH... :D
:D :D
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Susan, I praise God for bringing you two here. What a life you have had. Compare the post where you list all the things making you frazzled and then read the above one. It is truly inspiring. I seem to whine about the smallest things so when I read what my "forum" family is going thru it really gets me back in scripture.
Thanks for sharing,
gena
my son was a Marine for 8 years and while in Africa he typed in "hell" and found Ray!! ;D
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Oh Gena!! Anne and I love you so much!! We love to hear from you and think you are a wonderful person!
Words cannot describe the feelings that I just had as I read your short email to me; I haven't been on the forum for about 24 hrs (and I'm having withdrawls from not being around yall... )- thank you so much for appreciating me; as I need that now more than you realize!!YES, I have had a trying life, haven't I? (ha, you don't know the half of it...but, maybe the Lord will allow me to share more at other times.) Also, I truly am glad that I was able to insprie you, Gena, b/c I have felt like a failure in this area lately, so it'snice to know that I helped you. :D
Note: I did go back to the other email and compared the list from the first email to this latest one and it is a difference between feeling overwhelmed and nearly hopeless to feeling the peace and joy that passes all understanding! GOD IS SOOOOOOOOOO GOOD ;D
Wow! My heart really jumped for joy when I read about your son being a marine and especially when he found the BT website!!! (Baruch HaShem-praise God :D) Is he into the BT truths and do you get to share these things in fellowship with him? (That would be wonderful!
I hope that my emails aren't too long or too personal that I would offend others?
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Susan,
Your posts are never too long. Have you looked around lately? Just remember the forum etiquette I showed to you. Your posts are always a blessing, so by all means keep posting.
Yes God is sooo good as you said. Keep us updated. We will still be praying for you. I am proud of you.
Sincerely,
Anne C. McGuire