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=> Testimonies / Prayer Requests / Fellowship => Topic started by: lilitalienboi16 on October 26, 2010, 05:53:10 AM
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Hey, I was hoping I could get some prayer from anyone who doesn't feel burdened remembering me anytime at all. I'm dealing with great struggles against the flesh, and I mean those struggles a man deals with... when his hormones rage like their is no tomorrow. I can't stand it, I know its not who I want to be, I know its not me, but I am absolutely powerless and even thats an understatement. I've tried time and time again, i'm constantly overcome. I've prayed for hours upon end, for months and months, years now. I feel like I've been thrown into a spiritual prison by the Lord. I want out.
Absolutely tired and tired of this, tired of wanting it one moment, then hating myself for having wanted it or done it the next. I feel like i'm absolutely bent and twisted upside down inside, the only thing that makes sense are pauls words... That which I want, I do not do and that which I do , I do not want... Ugh.. what a contradictive mess of desires I am!
I can't stand it, in my heart of hearts I want the Lord to reign over this temple and destroy this beast yet I find myself embracing the flesh at every temptation of it...
Prayers please.... Thank you.
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Hey lilitalienboi16
I see this is your first post in the BT Forum! 8)
No one here has the keys of that prison you are in but most of us have been there or are in there with you! :'( It is a very painful place! :-[ It is great that you don't like it, where you are! I'd be concerned if you were not being caused to feel the dismay, weakness, frailty and your carnal liability to temptation. That is something we all have to endure but God doesn't give it to many to feel the pain and agony because many are taking the broad way to perdition and are simply accepting and accommodating the condition of subjection to sin. It is wonderful that you are not making this time in prison feel like it is okay with your soul. You are being caused to despise the condition as Jesus Himself despised the shame....You are to do the same. :) :'( :)
Heb 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
I know you want out. That is only natural ~ yet ~ only the Lord has the keys....Non of us can fight or want to fight with Him to set you free. Why? Because our Lord does everything for a very good outcome. There is a purpose too, for the fact that you are experiencing your difficulties. You have to go through the pain :( :'(
Act 14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
Don't give up or give in to the struggle and the dismay towards your spiritual condition. I would feel comforted if the Lord causes you to continue your turning in appeal and surrender to the Lord's Plan for you. I believe He is building up in you, His Faith that you trust in Him. Just think...one day...when it pleases the Lord to let you go free....you shall have the wisdom, empathy and understanding of the humility, feelings of guilt and despair that others have to endure and perhaps you'll be able to encourage, assure and bring some form of empathy purged of condemnation that might help someone else. Until then, it is good that you are suffering...and I, for one, rejoice.... :)
2Co 7:9 Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.
2Co 7:10 For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
I know that a few people when they are in prison, are caused to take a new and otherwise different occupation to take the opportunity to learn or study. Have you started to read the LOF Series here. I hope our Lord gives you the privilege to do something constructive and peacefully beneficial for your soul.... :)
Take comfort that our Lord has not grouped you together with those who look to defy Him.
Rom 1:32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
Take comfort and strength, as the Lord teaches you Patience and Humility as you realise that the law of sin is a law that God has written for a worthy purpose and keeping assurance and gratitude that God has not put you together with those under God's strong delusion! That's the good news! 8) :)
~ Welcome to the Forum. :)
Blessings
Arc
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Hi Alex, and welcome back! I've often thought of you and prayed for you since you left. I will most definitely continue to pray for you. It's good to have you here again.
I can relate to your struggles, as I think most men can. Realize and understand you were made this way, and it's gonna take a lot to unmake you this way. Because Jesus overcame, He has enabled you to overcome also, just be patient. It's gonna take judgment to make you righteous, but better now than later.
Here are some words from Ray which I sincerely hope will encourage and strengthen you.
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http://www.bible-truths.com/lake16-D4.htm
And so Jesus, Who knew the temptations of the flesh (the "temptations," not the "lusts"). Jesus was tempted, but never lusted. Once you "lust," you have already "SINNED." Jesus went right to the heart of the problem of spiritual morality and spiritual conversion:
"You have heard that it was said by them of old time, you shall not commit adultery..."
And there are many men who have been obedient to this part of the commandment.
"But I say unto you, that whosoever looks on a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart" (Matt. 5:27-28).
So what is a man to do? No viral man has the ability to NOT LUST after pretty women (and as Billy Crystal would have us know, sometimes not so pretty women). It is as natural as a knee-jerk, and if you women hear a different story from your husbands, know that they are lying through their teeth. All men lust after women. But it's a sin. Why is it a sin? Because Jesus said so. (And other reasons I don't have time to go into now). It's a sin and men are powerless to overcome it. What are we to do? Not even marriage will totally solve the spiritual aspect of this problem. But there is a way to conquer this and all sins.
Jesus never sinned. Why not? Why didn't Jesus sin? I have said before: Because His Father wouldn't let Him sin, and because His Father inspired Jesus through His Holy Spirit to turn from the temptation every time. Jesus' motivation to not sin was much greater than His temptation to sin, and the stronger motivator (the love of God's Spirit in Him) always won out. This is how Jesus "overcame the world." Now then, is this powerful motivator available to us? Yes, thank God, it is:
"But you shall receive power after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you..." (Acts 1:8).
And so, when a man who is tempted to spend more time looking at a woman than he should, looking at her to lust after her, the Spirit of God will give him power to turn away. God won't make you or force you to turn away, but He will give you the power to turn away, and then you have to do the turning. And should you fail to turn away before you actually lust after her, then you must "pluck out your eye. No not your literal, physical, organ of the body, but the lustful eye of your heart.
No man's physical eyes has ever lusted after anything. All lust comes from the heart, the carnal mind, and that part of the carnal mind must be "plucked out," or "cut off." But you must be the one who does the plucking and cutting or God will intervene and "cast your whole body into Gehenna fire" in a later Judgment where this spiritual fire is called "The Lake of Fire."
We can either volunteer to stop sinning now, in this life, or God will volunteer us to stop sinning later, in the resurrection to Judgment. Yes, of course, it will be God in us regardless of which Judgment we find ourselves.
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http://www.bible-truths.com/lake13.html
THE SPIRITUAL SYMBOL OF THE SAND
I have already stated a dozen times or so in this paper that we must all "follow Christ." Peter puts it this way:
"For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an EXAMPLE, that we should FOLLOW HIS STEPS: Who did NO SIN, neither was guile found in His mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judges righteously: Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto RIGHTEOUSNESS: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now RETURNED unto the Shepherd and Bishop [overseer] of your souls"
Notice that we are all to follow His steps. But Jesus "did NO SIN," and we ALL sin. There is the giant difference. We have to KEEP WALKING in His steps until we STOP SINNING. But the point to be made here is, that we must and WILL "follow His steps."
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G.Driggs
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Welcome to the Forum Bro,
That's quite an opening post! It truly shows just how desperate you are feeling.
The blessing is that God has given you the courage to despise your condition in a Forum!
He doesn't give that gift to many.
As one man to another, I think that's the most common thing facing us when we are first dragged here. I certainly identify with where you are, but I didn't have your courage to be as open. I struggled for decades;without any human counsel. Only Him.
That's how it was for me. Just Him and lil' me. It was a very lonely place. It seemed the more I struggled, the worse it got. It destroyed two marriages. Neither of my ex wives were to blame.
Then I was "drawn out to a place from which I could not return". He caused life to conspire against my desires. He cornered me in a little one bedroomed home, hidden amongst the sprawl of a drug ridden, gun toting, council estate in the suburbs.
He gave me my dog Molly as my only companion. He provided my food and drink: and surprisingly, my internet connection!
Despite a loving family, I lived like a recluse for 2 years. They stopped visiting because of my downward spiral. I had always prided myself on my appearance. I became a dishevelled bum.
I would only wash when I started to itch. Hair and a beard like ZZ Top. Social Services had to come in and clean me up. Then the psychiatrists got hold of me. It was a nightmare; and I didn't care.
Before repentance and my 20 years in Babylon, I was a handsome 6'2" ex-model and entertainer, a womaniser, a snappy dresser with a constant wit. I was 'the dude'. I was the kiss of death to any woman, married or not, I didn't care. I was restrained from that kind of living for 20 years! But the draw of the internet kept me a secret prisoner to my lusts.
When God finally cornered me here, where I live now, He allowed me to sicken myself with my appetites. He really turned me over to the darkness. Then, I started the self loathing.
I struggled and struggled. A few weeks would go by and just when I thought I was out of it, it would return. I lost count of the 'foothills'. Then one day, I just understood that struggling was pointless. I would continue in my filth and just cry out, with tears. I would self injure to make me feel I was being punished. I was totally sickened by myself.
Then,
HE STEPPED IN.
It was miraculous. The feeling just got up and vanished.
I was hungry for prayer and fellowship with Him.
He just sovereignly changed it.
I was awestruck.
HE JUST SAID "NOW" His appointed time! Not mine.
My advice to you Brother? Stop struggling. Keep praying; constantly, all day long. Make it a habit. Make it an obsession. Talk with Him, talk, talk,talk. Let it be the reason you're even awake.
Maybe He's getting you sick of yourself.
Where would any of us be without "greasy Grace"?
Arcturus gave you His fine wisdom. I thought her words were excellent.
I almost clicked off the post, but God prevented me.
As I took hold of the mouse, saying "Good one Arc", He caused me to feel THAT pain. Now YOUR pain. I just had to tell ya.
Hope this has helped Bro, you're not alone. Ever.
His loving hand is most certainly upon you.
Stop struggling. Take your hand's off his wall and watch a Master Builder at work.
It will make you cry; tears of Joy and Gratitude.
PM me if you want to talk. I know where you're hanging brother. I think I can see how you're pinned.
Muchest Luv in His Grace and Mercy.
Grape
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Just read your reply George, bless you Brother.
Great counsel.
Grape
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Hey ALEX :o :D....it's YOU!! :o 8)OHHHH.....nudge nudge by G.Driggs nuzzle of the shot gun :D ;D...... :D ;D....
Welcome back dear brother.... :)
Blessings
Arc
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You described me to a T grape, except for the model part. :P It really seems it takes a lot (I mean a lot!) of self loathing and judgment before He begins to change us doesn't it? Talk about torment! I'm not saying I'm "there" yet, but I say this with much fear and trembling knowing He could put me back where He found me. Thanks grape for your testimony.
nudge nudge by G.Driggs nuzzle of the shot gun Cheesy Grin...... Cheesy Grin....
Ha ha Arc, I got your back. ;)
Hang in there dear Alex, your in good company. Remember, " I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me". (Php 4:13 ) He is pulling for you, or else you would not have come back. One day at a time, one second at a time is all we have bro, we repent in increments.
Peace
G.Driggs
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WOW! Grape :o
You know what the sun being turned into darkness and the moon into blood means! :o 8) :)
Blessings
Arc
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I wish i had some more wisdom to add than what was already said. all i can say is that i will do what you have asked and will pray for your brother. what you struggle with is what we, as men, will always in one way or another struggle with. Only God will destroy that fleshly beast and free us from that prison.
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Hey, I was hoping I could get some prayer from anyone who doesn't feel burdened remembering me anytime at all. I'm dealing with great struggles against the flesh, and I mean those struggles a man deals with... when his hormones rage like their is no tomorrow. I can't stand it, I know its not who I want to be, I know its not me, but I am absolutely powerless and even that's an understatement. I've tried time and time again, I'm constantly overcome. I've prayed for hours upon end, for months and months, years now. I feel like I've been thrown into a spiritual prison by the Lord. I want out.
Absolutely tired and tired of this, tired of wanting it one moment, then hating myself for having wanted it or done it the next. I feel like I'm absolutely bent and twisted upside down inside, the only thing that makes sense are Paul's words... That which I want, I do not do and that which I do , I do not want... Ugh.. what a contradicting mess of desires I am!
I can't stand it, in my heart of hearts I want the Lord to reign over this temple and destroy this beast yet I find myself embracing the flesh at every temptation of it...
Prayers please.... Thank you.
Dear Alex,
Firstly, I'm glad you've rejoined the Forum. Being with like minded individuals will certainly help. Remember, Ray has stated that God created Testosterone, this Biological fact is of the Carnal, not just the fleshly thinking, but Hormonal too. I don't envy your position in this respect. Only God's spirit can CAUSE anyone to desist from the "works of the flesh;" Galatians. 5:19-21. Of course, I'll pray for you, that's a given. You've been doing allot of praying yourself, this is good. The fact that you "can't stand it," is a step in the right direction. I remember my extremely strong desire in this area at 16-28 of age. What Paul stated that You allude to in your above Post is reality, because there is a war going on inside Your members. I present no Judgement against You, but continue to fight the fine fight, as Paul did.
What I'm about to say is not meant to coerce you in any particular direction, but only meant as a possible consideration. Is Marriage an option ? No, I'm not suggesting that you impulsively Marry anyone. It's just meant as a consideration. You were a member for quite some time prior to Your rejoining, so I won't barrage you with many Scriptures, You already know them. I'll list the Scriptural references only: 1Cor. 7:1,2; 8,9 &28. Verses 9(better to Marry than to be inflamed with passion) & 28(If you did Marry, you would commit no sin). Verses 9 & 28 in particular.
If Marriage is not a viable choice in Your personal circumstances, Is there anything you can refrain from in regards to stimulating these desires. Are you viewing or partaking of anything that might increase Your desires in this area(Rhetorical question) ? I know, even with an active avoidance of any type of Stimuli on Your part, the Hormones are a kicking in. I'm only 1/2 Italian, to be full blooded, whew. Just providing a little levity, no offense intended. We can try to assist and help you with good intentions, but ultimately it's between You and God, He's(God) in control and responsible, Your(includes all of us) are accountable for Our choices. If you need to PM me, feel free, If not, that's okay too. One important thing, You've already taken some steps in the right direction, Recognition and reaching for help.
Kind Regards, Samson.
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Hey, I was hoping I could get some prayer from anyone who doesn't feel burdened remembering me anytime at all. I'm dealing with great struggles against the flesh, and I mean those struggles a man deals with... when his hormones rage like their is no tomorrow. I can't stand it, I know its not who I want to be, I know its not me, but I am absolutely powerless and even thats an understatement. I've tried time and time again, i'm constantly overcome. I've prayed for hours upon end, for months and months, years now. I feel like I've been thrown into a spiritual prison by the Lord. I want out.
Absolutely tired and tired of this, tired of wanting it one moment, then hating myself for having wanted it or done it the next. I feel like i'm absolutely bent and twisted upside down inside, the only thing that makes sense are pauls words... That which I want, I do not do and that which I do , I do not want... Ugh.. what a contradictive mess of desires I am!
I can't stand it, in my heart of hearts I want the Lord to reign over this temple and destroy this beast yet I find myself embracing the flesh at every temptation of it...
Prayers please.... Thank you.
Hey Alex, welcome back to the forum.
Lusting after women is a daily urge of the flesh. It doesn't go away when you get married, if you isolate yourself from society, or attempt to obey the Lord. Like you said, it is like a prison that men are in, and it is an almost lifetime sentence. But this judgment has a just Judge: Jesus Christ who will see you through.
Luke 4:18-19 The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me [Jesus], because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
You mentioned Paul, who said he had a 'war in his members/body warring against his mind' [Rom 7:23]. It's all about what we think on. 'As a man thinks, so he is'.
Eph 6:12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Phil 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things
1 Tim 4:12-13, 15-16 Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine...Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all. Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
One of the biggest problems with dealing with sin is: We don't think about WHY it is wrong. The church simply teaches 'it's wrong because God said so'. But WHY did He say so. Fornication or lustful thoughts, just like any other sin, if you can't understand WHY God says not to do it, it will always feel utterly impossible to overcome.
1 Cor 6:15-20 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a harlot? Certainly not! Or do you not know that he who is joined to a harlot is one body with her? (even in thought: As a man thinks, so HE IS) For “the two,” He says, “shall become one flesh.” But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him.
Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.
It's about giving God glory, IN YOUR BODY and IN YOUR SPIRIT. Your thoughts and actions. If we continue to say to ourselves "I don't want to think this, I don't want to think this", we will always fail because our carnality DOES want to think those thoughts. We must have the greater desire to 'glorify God in our bodies and spirit'. The desire to serve and obey the Lord has to grow and become bigger than our carnal thoughts...that's what overcoming is all about. And our Lord knows all about overcoming, in and through us:
John 16:33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation [warring in our members and mind]; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.
Hope this helps,
Marques
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Hi Alex,
So glad to have you back at the forum, I've missed you :)
You are a young man and I can understand how it would be hard not to revel in your youth. Maybe you should evaluate things in your life and see where you might need to make changes. Right now you need to make little baby steps, just try to start to make positive changes. Think about the places you go, if you hang out in places that lead to sinnful behavior, well... If all of your friends are living their lives in the way that you have come to despise, maybe you need to seriously reconsider who you hang around with. Even if you don't stick to a change you have made, don't give up! You know the saying; if at first you don't succeed try, try again? This is so true, NEVER give up! Bad habits are never easy to break, maybe it's God way to make us so glad to get rid of it we will never go back. If you do try and make changes, find some positive habits/hobbies to replace the bad ones with. Don't just stop doing things and sit around and feel sorry for yourself, find something else to do. This is just my attempt to be helpful, but it's only my opinion, not knowing the many details of your life.
I would also say that Grape's advice to, "Keep praying; constantly, all day long. Make it a habit. Make it an obsession. Talk with Him, talk, talk,talk. Let it be the reason you're even awake." I think this is the best advice of all, as it is God who will give you the strength you need to overcome and make the changes.
Hang in there Alex, you are a work in progress, as we all are. I know from your past posts that you know and believe this truth, this is a very high calling, we all have "to count the cost' and give up our very lives in order to follow Chirst.
Luke 14:25 Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them,
v. 26 "If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.
v. 27 And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.
Yes we have to give it all up, but let's not forget why.
1Co 2:6 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.
v. 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory,
v. 8 which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
v. 9 But as it is written:
"Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared for those who love Him."
Yes the reward is only for a very few, it is so great it can not be compared to anything in this life... just think about it.
Rev 15:2 And I saw something like a sea of glass mingled with fire, and those who have the victory over the beast, over his image and over his mark and over the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, having harps of God.
mercy, peace and love
Kat
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Welcome back to the forum, Alex.
I can only imagine the trial you are suffering, but I am encouraged that you have returned here for prayer and guidance. I just want you to remember that you are powerless to change your heart or desires, however, God can and will enable you to overcome if that is His will in your life at this time.
I will be praying for you.
René
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Hey, I was hoping I could get some prayer from anyone who doesn't feel burdened remembering me anytime at all. I'm dealing with great struggles against the flesh, and I mean those struggles a man deals with... when his hormones rage like their is no tomorrow. I can't stand it, I know its not who I want to be, I know its not me, but I am absolutely powerless and even thats an understatement. I've tried time and time again, i'm constantly overcome. I've prayed for hours upon end, for months and months, years now. I feel like I've been thrown into a spiritual prison by the Lord. I want out.
Absolutely tired and tired of this, tired of wanting it one moment, then hating myself for having wanted it or done it the next. I feel like i'm absolutely bent and twisted upside down inside, the only thing that makes sense are pauls words... That which I want, I do not do and that which I do , I do not want... Ugh.. what a contradictive mess of desires I am!
I can't stand it, in my heart of hearts I want the Lord to reign over this temple and destroy this beast yet I find myself embracing the flesh at every temptation of it...
Prayers please.... Thank you.
Women have no idea what many young men go through. None.
Mat 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
Gal 5:17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
Rom 7:19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
We are spirit and we are animals. We are subject to the instincts and drives of animals.
In some of the animal world the males fight to the death for the right to reproduce. This is a powerful force. You are not going to overcome this with your will. Not going to happen.
Rom 7:23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
Rom 7:24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
Here is your answer:
Rom 7:25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
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He makes women attractive to us, then He tells us not to lust after them
Exactly!
We are here to learn that we cannot control our own bodies, let alone run this planet. As Rene' pointed out, we have no control or power over anything.
We are also victims of chemistry.
When I was 58 I didn't think I would live to be my current age of 67. I knew I would be dead by now.
Then I discovered "Super Miraforte" (sold at http://lef.org) which turns free estrogen (bad for men) into testosterone. And in a few days I had my life back.
But I also had all my lusts back.
So I can overcome my lust by not taking my vitamins and supplements and die soon, or I can feel a lot better and live with my lusts. I decided on the latter.
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As a contrast to Dennis' last post. I remember a howler from a Brit comic
" Adolescence is the most cruel age for men. One day you're a boy, the next day you're covered in acne and noticing girls. It makes you horny and unattractive at the same time!" ;D ;D
Sorry Alex, this might not be helping much.
BUMP
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Hey Alex. It's really good to see you. I think it's OK if we preach to the horny, too...so here goes.
You are one of just a few who have half a clue how all this *waves arms widly* ends. What a blessed position to be in! When you know how it ends, you can face everything without fear.
I don't think it's for no reason that the Jews elevated boys to men at 13. That's a pretty common age for males to come to know by experience both the pleasures and tyranny of the flesh. And I don't think it's for nothing that sexual sin takes such a prominent place in describing the war we find ourselves in. You'll learn more about sin, religion, faith, grace, self, and everything else dealing with this--well and/or poorly--than with anything else.
So, yeah, I'll pray for you that the Lord will use this to create a child of God. I'd encourage you to keep your eyes on the finish line.
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Dave in Tenn.
Just love the *waves arms wildly* line! ;D ;D
"That was Grapehound on his new album 'Waves Arms Wildly' "
" Don't move that dial. Cummin up we got Doc Hagee with 'Burn Baby Burn'"
ROFL!!! ;D ;D ;D ;
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alex, my little alien boy!!
TIME is one of the greatest gifts God has given us. Increment by increment (I like that)
Spend time re reading Rays papers. Spend time here on forum. Seek ways to spend your time that doesn't put you in so much temptation.
TRUST God to work this out for you...after all HE made you the way you are- Italian genes and all!!
love ya,
gena
(1 Pet 1-4 is very good-I just read it today-may help ya)
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Ha, I think being on the forum or keeping your head down in your bible is the only way to avoid temptation. God knows you can't go to the movies or so much as turn on the TV before a pretty woman is practically sitting in your lap seducing you. Even commercials are a temptation to men. So being a man in this day and age trying to avoid lust is, well, a challenge only the Lord can accomplish.
I'm praying for you Alex and every man out there.
Eileen
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Hey all,
First of all, thank you for all the replies and warm welcome and most certainly the prayers. Prayers.. Need lots of those... It has been a while and I apologize. I believe almost an entire year. I was... well, how can I say this, a walking contradiction on the inside? Even that feels to shallow and vague in describing what was going on. I had so much turmoil within me that even the forums had become a negative place. But I'm back, and Lord willing to stay.
So I wanted to share with you all a few thoughts that crossed my mind while reading all these replies. First there are many.. so It will take me time to go through them again and really respond to everything and everyone on an individual and person a level but ill touch on what really stuck out to me. My thoughts are very scrambled so I apologize ahead of time if their exists no form of structure to my comming thoughts.
First, I don't like the idea of "distracting" myself to avoid lustful pulls and temptations of the flesh. I believe, God is big enough that if He wants me to conquor this beast that I won't need to "distract" myself to get around it. I'll be able to look the beast in the eyes, to look temptation down the barrel of a gun and not be shaken. I won't be tempted to lust because that is how powerful God is.
This distraction of myself feels like a bandage to the problem. What happens when the distraction ends? I am faced again with the same problem I was in before, temptation and overcome by it, because the distraction simply hid the real problem. I can do everything I want to the outside world to make it go away. Even lock myself in the darkest of rooms with nothing safe my own thoughts and even then, my thoughts would betray me. For the problem is not outside in the world, but rather inside this fleshy body.
Secondly, the marriage idea. Again, another bandage to a festuring wound merely masking the problem and not removing it. Marriage is not an option for many reasons. The biggest reason being is that I am way way to different from most girls my age that I would end up scaring them away with how deeply devoted and passionate I am towards the Lord inside, on that inner quite level. I have to turn my back on the Lord to fit in with just about anyone my age. Very few people would see who I am and accept it. Woman just aren't ready for the type of guy I am. Woman my age want to party, woman my age they want to be carnal like men my age. They want to fullfill the desires of the flesh in every mannor just like any other guy out there. Even myself in times of temptation and little protection from the Lord. My generation cares little for God, even those proclaiming our Saviour are nothing like me. Even the "christian" woman. They praise Him one moment and blaspheme Him the next. Either in word or deed, feeling no remorse if any for their actions. Christians uplift themselves into the heavens with their self righteous Holier-than-thou attitude and would have nothing with me if they knew what I truly believed.
Another huge reason against marriage is I am not ready to be the man I have to be, the man of God I want to be and need to be for marriage.
As you can see, i don't like the bandage approaches to this situation.
I also know I don't want to struggle with this into my 30's, and 40's and 50's. I hate seeing even my own father lust after woman and say things about them I wish I had never heard. I don't want to be that man when i'm his age nor when i'm married.
Sexual references and comments towarsd women as nothing but sex objects is EVERYWHERE. Distracting myself is not possible even if I tried. It's on facebook, its in games, its in music, its on t.v., its in movies, it's in books, woman promote it, men promote it, SEX SEX SEX. Theirs no escape... but I DON'T WANT TO BE THAT MAN, I DON'T WANT TO LUST ANYMORE AFTER ANY WOMAN. I WANT TO SEE MY WIFE ONE DAY AND ONLY HER. I'm TIRED OF THIS! I've had it! Is this trully the fate for men, to SUFFER this move destructive sin for all teh days of our lives? Why? Why can't I be 22 and not lust after woman any more? Whats wrong with that... :(
And if you're concerned for me.. don't be, i'm not on the verge of losing my faith. Infact, it's never been stronger, but... i HATE this sin. I don't like this flesh... and I really don't like these hormones.. -.-
Anyway, this was long winded and probably poorly constructed manifestation of my thoughts and state of mind. Ill try and re-read these posts again and address more specific points, I know many were made.
Thanks again for all the encouragement, the versus of scripture, they work miracles, they really do.
God bless.
Kindly,
Alex
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Alex, I am so happy to see you here again! ;D ;D
I've watched my dear husband deal with these issues during our marriage and I know what a strong pull it has on all you brothers. I feel for you. And although he struggles as you all do, just a note of encouragement, he married me at age 27 after having kept himself for his wife. That is practically a miracle having grown up in the pre-aids era of promiscuity as we did.
And since I did not do my part to help when I was in my youth, I am teaching my daughters that the reason we dress modestly is to help you guys out as much as we can.
Blessings, Lin
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I also know I don't want to struggle with this into my 30's, and 40's and 50's. I hate seeing even my own father lust after woman and say things about them I wish I had never heard. I don't want to be that man when i'm his age nor when i'm married.
Rom 3:9 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;
Rom 3:10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
Rom 3:11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.
Rom 3:12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.
Be grateful that you will have more respect for women as you grow older and hopefully will not repeat the sins your father made. But it's unlikely God will remove what's in your heart for awhile. Paul was not granted a clean heart.
Rom 7:24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
Rom 7:25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
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Well Alex, I'm impressed with your reply. You have not lost any of your vigor for this truth, but you said "it's never been stronger," i can tell! You are a very unusual young man to feel the way that you do and I know that you know that.
I pray that you will continue to desire to obey Him above all things. He sees you in your struggles and your not giving up is important. He knows your weaknesses, after all He made you that way.
mercy, peace and love
Kat
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Dennis you've put it into an interesting perspective. You're right, I should be thankful and not boast or think I am better. Believe me... I do not. It's hard to think you're better when you can see that beam in your eye and how trully massive it is. You said in your earlier responce that woman do not understand this pull of the flesh for men and that certain animals KILL for the right to reproduce with other females and that we being no different then animals struggle with the same powerfull natural pull. You really hit the nail on the head with that post in my opinion. It is THAT powerful and by looking at men around me, men that have come before me, men older then me.. it scares me... I see EVERY MAN struggling with this well into his old age. I Just wish It didn't have to be that way...
Rom 7:25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin
How exactly does one do this? How do I serve the law of God with my mind when at times my very own thoughts betray me to lust and do things I don't want to? You said thats the answer to this and if this is how it needs to be for now then i'd atleast like to be able to to have peace of mind knowing I serve the law of God with my mind.
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Dear Lin,
Thank you for the warm welcome! Thank you for the encouragement. I know I'm not alone in this! But this is also my biggest fault. In no other sin have I taken advantage of our Lords love and grace and mercy towards me then in this and it hurts me, it discusts me and I'm tired of it. As paul put it, "O wretched man that I am..."
Your husband is blessed to have you stand by him through this and support him. I could only imagine this if it were me, to be married and still being pulled every way by this beast and the pain it could cause on my wife. I've' seen what it does to marriages, i've seen what it does to couples, i've seen what it does to a man. Stay strong Lin! Your husband is trully blessed to have your support, I pray He is free'd from that bondage completely one day.
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Well Alex, I'm impressed with your reply. You have not lost any of your vigor for this truth, but you said "it's never been stronger," i can tell! You are a very unusual young man to feel the way that you do and I know that you know that.
I pray that you will continue to desire to obey Him above all things. He sees you in your struggles and your not giving up is important. He knows your weaknesses, after all He made you that way.
mercy, peace and love
Kat
Thank you Kat, i guess there exists no simple answer to this other then to wait on the Lord. I suppose I'll wait... impatiently as always hehe.
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I wanted to personally say Helllo to Arc! I've missed your amazing posts of wisdom and I was blessed to read through it all! So /wave :)
G.driggs, thank you for welcoming me back so warmly! Thank you for sharing rays thoughts and wisdom on the issue. I do appreciate the emails. It was a blessing to read your post and I will read them again. Sames goes for arcs posts as well.
Godisgracious, Quite a name and indeed He is! THank you for sharing your story of personal struggle, i know i'm not alone and it's nice to be reminded of that. This journey can feel so lonely sometimes. You seeem very blessed to have made such great progress in your life and well, I'm glad you're here. I'm glad to be here.
Rene and marques thank you both! Marques your post was also a blessing.
I will have to re-read all these as this is a daily struggle within.
Kat, as you said, I won't be giving in, I won't give up! The Lord made me to stubborn to give up! ;D
Thank you for the prayers.
God bless you all!
Alex
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Hi Alex.Good to have you back. 8)
Your desire not to sin is something that all of us would like to kill in ourselves,but,since God created us in a weakened state, us sinning machines can only rely on our God to remedy that condition of our carnal heart.That in and of itself is a good thing, because we can then come to a point in our lives when the sin that we commit starts to make a change within,for the better,and we no longer desire to be in a state of sin and to dwell in the unrighteousness of our choices. That then can bring about the desire[from God] to not want to commit sinful desires of a fleshy heart and ultimately bring us to our knees in a way to worship and obey our Loving Lord. After all, are we not here to learn that the flesh profits nothing and that Spirit is life. I'll tell you what,turning from our sinful nature and wanting to do what is right is no easy task,it takes Christ in us,giving us what we need Spiritually in order to succeed in things Spiritual. If any one of us thinks that this can be done from within our own carnality,well, good luck on that one.
God is responsible for His creation and the outcome of it. Don't beat yourself up to much over the condition that God has put you in,because,all that we must go through is for the good of Him that controls and desires of His own good will and unending Love for His creation. Just like some people would like to have us believe that a ten second sinners prayer will bring about salvation without God first doing the calling, and the dragging, and the chastising, not to mention the time needed to have His creation work out the details in ones own heart and mind,that will in turn,through Him,give us the desire to want to repent and do the right thing. It is a life long process that will not end until we are created anew in Spiritual bodies that are not corrupt and dying.When Jesus comes and lives in us as the Comforter that He is, then we can begin to die to self and thank God for it. His Love for us will not fail.
In the mean time all we can do is fight the good fight and call on our Loving Father in Heaven and ask and pray that His will be done so that our progression in our Spiritual walk,here on this earth,at this time,can and will proclaim His victory by how the Fruits of the Spirit are working within ourselves to want to do what is right, just as our Lord has intended from the beginning,that being,His righteous desires,not our sinful ones.Ask God in prayer like you mean it and mean it when you ask for it and the Holy Spirit will not fail you.
Peace...Mark
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Rom 7:25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin
How exactly does one do this? How do I serve the law of God with my mind when at times my very own thoughts betray me to lust and do things I don't want to? You said thats the answer to this and if this is how it needs to be for now then i'd atleast like to be able to to have peace of mind knowing I serve the law of God with my mind.
Mat 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
You want to do good, that's serving with your mind. The flesh part you already get.
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Mark thank you! Dennis thanks again!
God bless everyone for taking the time to hear me out! I appreciate it. I'm off to fight that good fight... and lose. LOL.
Kindly,
Alex
P.S. Grapehound, I'm completely sorry for mixing you up in my last post with "Godisgracious." It was you I was referencing with the post about sharing your personal struggle in the matter. Thank you for doing so! I feel silly now.. having mixed up your names >.>
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I wanted to personally say Helllo to Arc! I've missed your amazing posts of wisdom and I was blessed to read through it all! So /wave
Hey ALEX
Thank you! ...a big wave back to you...not a Tsunami wave, 8) ;D :) ;D a wave of blessing :) to you dear brother! :)
I was so delighted to read your rendition of how you'd like to face off evil. ....not ducking or hiding but eye to eye...not an eye for an eye :D :)...but a stare down in fullest recognition of what evil is... (Gen 3:22 And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: )...THE PLAN...THE PURPOSE of GOD burns in you dear brother to recieve knowledge of the foe and fullest insight of Your God! 8) :) Wonderful! The fire is good for you! :) It is bringing out the BEST of the Spirit of Your Lord and mine, Your King and ours, into focus....manifestation....
I see Father is giving you the desires of your heart to please HIM. Php 2:13 For it is God Who Works in you, both to WILL and to DO of His Good Pleasure 8)
First things ARE first...the Will to do 8) :)...then the accomplishment! :)
Blessings to you brother...deep, abiding, enhancing, enlightening blessings to you...in patience, perseverance ~ to the end. 8) :)
Your sister Deborah
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Amen Deborah! 8)
Dear Brother Alex,
No apology needed! I knew it was a simple mistake, no worries. :)
For my part, I welcomed you, rather than welcoming you back! So we're even! ;D
Yes, I think Dennis nailed it too!
Every Blessing
Grape
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It is THAT powerful and by looking at men around me, men that have come before me, men older then me.. it scares me... I see EVERY MAN struggling with this well into his old age. I Just wish It didn't have to be that way..
Firstly I just want to tell you that I very much appreciate this topic you started Alex, it is a blessing. :) Your quote above reminded me when Ray talked about the goodness of God which leads us to repentance, and also how Paul boasted in his weakness because then he was strong. How else will we learn to become totally dependent on God? So these verses are just as much for me as anyone else.
2Co 11:30 If I must boast, I will be boasting in that which is of my weakness.
2Co 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
2Co 12:10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Rom 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
This tells me it has to be the way it is, so we learn to totally depend on God, but I think you know that already. So like I said this is more for me than anyone else, I really needed it. If it helps you or anyone else, that is a plus.
Peace & Discernment to you dear brother
G.Driggs
p.s. Thanks ALL for the awesome replies, you guys and gals rock! 8)
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Hi Alex
I know all to well where you are coming from, but take heart in these words.
Hebrews 5:7-9
7-In the days of his flesh[Jesus] offered up definite, special petitions [for that which He not only wanted but needed], and supplications, with strong crying and tears, to Him Who was [always] able to save Him (out) from death, and He was heard because of His reverence toward God- His godly fear, His piety [that is, in that He shrank from the horrors of seperation from the presence of the Father].
8-Although He was a Son, HE LEARNED [ACTIVE, SPECIAL] OBEDIENCE THROUGH WHAT HE SUFFERED;
9-And [His complete experience] making Him perfect [in equipment], He became the Author and source of eternal salvation to those who give heed and obey Him,
He knows where we came from, where we are now, and where we need to be in the future.
In the hands of the Master Potter.
Joel
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Thanks George and Joel for those inspired posts.
Very edifying and a geat blessing.
Grape
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Alex,
You made me cry we you said,"One day I want to see my wife and only her". You are a blessing brother. That sounds like what our Lord says about us. I can sure see the work the Lord is doing in you. Amen.
Blessings,
Margo
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It is THAT powerful and by looking at men around me, men that have come before me, men older then me.. it scares me... I see EVERY MAN struggling with this well into his old age. I Just wish It didn't have to be that way..
Firstly I just want to tell you that I very much appreciate this topic you started Alex, it is a blessing. :) Your quote above reminded me when Ray talked about the goodness of God which leads us to repentance, and also how Paul boasted in his weakness because then he was strong. How else will we learn to become totally dependent on God? So these verses are just as much for me as anyone else.
2Co 11:30 If I must boast, I will be boasting in that which is of my weakness.
2Co 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
2Co 12:10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Rom 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
This tells me it has to be the way it is, so we learn to totally depend on God, but I think you know that already. So like I said this is more for me than anyone else, I really needed it. If it helps you or anyone else, that is a plus.
Peace & Discernment to you dear brother
G.Driggs
p.s. Thanks ALL for the awesome replies, you guys and gals rock! 8)
Whether it was for you, or for all of us here, i cerftainly appreciate the wisdom. I'm learning to find joy in my infirmities and I too have truly experienced the fact that when I am weak , that is when God is trully powerful in me! It's amazing.
Thank you driggs, those scriptures were perfect!
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Samson, I almost neglected you! I'm so sorry but believe it or not, your post was one that stood out the most to me! Your post was so constructive and edifying. I feel horrible for having forgotten you! Honestly, even though marriage is not an option, i am so thankful for your constructive approach to the matter in trying to help me by sharing various possible options! You are a blessing samson, your wisdom and control in what you say shines through in your post! Thank you brother!!!
God bless
Alex :) <3
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Alex,
I wish I could tell you that when your in the 30's or 40's that you will totally overcome the desires of the flesh in this area. If you figure out how to do it then let the rest of us know. I'm almost 50 now and am very grateful to the Lord that as you get older the testosterone levels begin to decrease. I wish I could say I'm not engaging in certain activities very often because I'm more saintly but I'm afraid it's because the 'desires of the flesh' are lessened with age. It will get better but it's a long and slow process. God created us like this and he has a purpose behind it all. If I tried to count all the times I loathed myself and promised God to do better.....well, I don't think I could count that high. Even the well meaning advice that I received or ideas I came up with to combat this area fell woefully short. I worked myself hard, went to bed tired, stayed busy in other activities, so on and so forth and I might be distracted for a few days but that was about all. You can't counsel a demon or cast out the flesh and I tried to cast out the flesh many times to no avail. Some things God has designed that we just have to walk through and have to learn by experience and for most of us this area is one of those things. When I was a young man the older men didn't really have any meaningful advice either. We do know what your going through and it will get better but it's a long and slow drag. God is using this to do a work in you as he is the rest of us but when we are in the middle of it that doesn't seem like much of a comfort. Just keep on keeping on brother.
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Hi Alex, and welcome back! I've often thought of you and prayed for you since you left. I will most definitely continue to pray for you. It's good to have you here again.
george, i was thinking the same thing when i saw our lil italien boi's post. i have missed your posts alex. i will surely pray for you. it is an honor to pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ. i too still experience the feelings of my fingers on the bars of my own prisons, shaking at them to break open so i can be free. prisons brought on by the lusts of the flesh. it is a very HARD thing to die to the pulls of this flesh. surely it is part of our gehenna fire. alex, i know that feeling guilt about our inadequacies when we miss the mark is a good thing, in that it causes us to know we are helpless to overcome this beast on our own, this beast which must surely die. guilt causes us to seek His counsel. to turn, and repent. and, i know you know, we can't even come to that point until He causes us to. but, we are to always seek His higher calling. the higher ground. being on His potter's wheel can be a stressful experience as He molds us into His image of righteousness. but, He knows what is needed in His work. we are in His most able hands.
claudia
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Alex, you are still afraid. Do the best you can and don't worry if you fail. Not too many times does one conquer a biggy like this one all at once. My dad always said everyone would be a saint if they lived long enough. Usually it's little by little. By nature we are physically like the animals. The more you focus on this the worse it gets, when you hate something your focus is tuned into it. Forget about it, the raging war you are spearheading is for nothing. Surrender to the fact you can't do anything and then maybe at least you won't be hating yourself. More things are conquered by love than by striving. The more you love God, not the more you hate yourself because of the nature he has set in you, it will get easier. Like anything, drugs, alchohol, pick the sin, it's all sin. Only a deepening sense of the beauty and holiness of God will make choices a bit less difficult and this due to the grace and mercy of a understanding God. Eventually like any overcoming you will pick yourself up quicker, ask for forgiveness, accept it and move on knowing you are like the rest of us always and at all times suffering ourselves.
God's mercy and understanding is so much more than your "sin" We are nothing and God deigns to look on us. Of course we are going to act like beasts. We are. Have a little more faith in God's love and when you are forgiven over and over times a million and you appreciate this love more and more and you want with all your heart to love Him worthily, then your sin is no longer the issue, He is. This is repentance by love alone, not disgust, wanting perfection, shame, pride or whatever.
His goodness is our cross. love, judy
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Judy,
There aren't many posts I cut and paste to my journal, but this one of yours is a nugget.
For me, these words God gas given you are straight from the 'Throne Room'. They hit me like a 'Stop Press'! Awesome clarity and understanding of His love.
Thank you dear Sister for sharing that precious gift.
And thank you for this thread Alex, your courage and honesty have seeded some wonderful replies and I'm sure have opened the doors to many 'cells'. This is fellowship at it's best.
Just as Ray teaches we need ' all them Good words', so we need all the members of His body to share His loving and tender care.
Keep posting and praying guys, especially those that don't think anyone would be interested in their view. God called you here for His own good reason. Take courage, silent beloved; you too have a voice.
Blessings to y'all :-*
Grape
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Judy!
You have been HEARING HIM!... 8) Your King and Lord ~ you are sharing with us what HE has said. Oh how very wonderful. 8) ;D 8)
Grief dwells in the dark but Joy is the countenance of His Glory and has to be shared! ;D
THANK YOU for sharing HIM with US dear sister! 8) ;D
Grape…I loved the “Stop Press!…” Translation ;D :D ~ Shabat Press.. 8) ;D 8) "Shabat" [Strong's #7673: To rest (x11), to cease (47x) to stop, to end.] ;D 8) :)
8)…. the Voice of The Shepherd our King….is that tender whisper to the “silent beloved”…that is sharing His Love with the gentle loving deliberation of His Heart. 8)
Alex this is a fine Thread dear brother!
Shabat ;D 8)& Shalom ;D :)
Deborah
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Arcturus and Grape, if you only knew. In order to encourage others to post I am willing to reveal myself who, by the way, is a very proud person.
When i write something I hope you will never know the agony that i endure afterwards. i am not a person of confidence when speaking without scripture to back me up or having experienced something deeply because i know how easy it is for Satan to enter. I always second guess myself and pray i do no harm. I believe more and more when one speaks out for God, Satan, the accuser of the brethren, attacks with viciousness those whose weaknesses are fueled by rejection and shame. Satan is a coward who preys on the insecure.
I really never know for sure if God is using me or i am just a full blown egotist. But, for the sake of others in whom i spot the same rejection of self =(who is made in the image of God Himself and where all beauty lies but has been wounded, belittled, rejected, abused and forgotten) I will in the face of Satan himself come to their side. Erring on the side of mercy can do no harm. (one must trust their instincts or be humble in the face of hatred because it can be dangerous by themselves)Theologically, i let others do the teaching of the ways of God.
This is where each voice is so important, no one is good at ALL of God but everyone knows something of Him, even the worldly know they have beauty, but not knowing the root, attribute it to themselves. i think this is why we love newbys because we know we are going to hear either falsehoods or truth, and if by the grace of God it is truth, then we all see a new facet of His beauty. (or correct the heck out of them, (funny) Our Lord is a diamond whether rough or polished. He is the Crown Jewel, the Lover, the Lifter of our Heads.
Dear God look what a little appreciation has wrought! And to think i was afraid to say what i did. How much we all need God's love. Thanks, judy (and now the agonizing begins anew, will I never, dear God, be rid of this old man or old woman (chuckle) Heaven has got to be a total annihiliation of our earthly selves and then we will no longer be looking at God through these murky little mirrors.
Ok, got a question, what i just wrote, i think I now understand what Arcturus has said more than a few times. This is for me too, isn't it?? This is as much for me as it is for others. I could never see it before. Right??
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Judy,
I can't speak for Arc, but I think you got that right on the button! :)
I love the thoughtfulness of your posts and the 'no nonsense' approach you bring here.
Now I understand a little of the 'why' !
Bless you dear sister,
Always in my prayers
Grape
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Judy,
I can't speak for Arc, but I think you got that right on the button!
I love the thoughtfulness of your posts and the 'no nonsense' approach you bring here.
Now I understand a little of the 'why' !
Bless you dear sister,
Always in my prayers
Grape
Hi Judy,
Our Brother Grape identifies your “thoughtfulness”. Many of us have this attribute that has been produced, or is still being produced and increased in the crucible of great human suffering.
Thoughtfulness doesn't blossom without the sting of winter, the grief of pain, humiliation and finally, endurance. It is like a tree that has to mature through the seasons of God causing it to grow into a fruitful tree under which others can find rest and shade under another person's THOUGHTFULNESS.
The second blessing you have is that “no nonsense” approach that Grape identifies. This is a wonderful attribute that gets to the point and cuts through excess like pruning off dead wood.
What matters is the heart.
i think I now understand what Arcturus has said more than a few times. This is for me too, isn't it?? This is as much for me as it is for others. I could never see it before. Right??
YES YES YES!!!!! ...YES...
Erring on the side of mercy can do no harm. Deciding to err on the side of mercy is a very noble decision. I read this today....
.~ every man should have a large cemetery to bury the faults of our friends!~ :D ;D
: will I never, dear God, be rid of this old man or old woman (chuckle)...
THAT chuckle ability is exactly what shone through Paul and Silos and then burst into song to God! THAT is a GREAT gift tip toeing from within your heart Judy! It is delightful to see! .
Act 16:23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, (Paul and Silos) they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:
Act 16:24 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.
Act 16:25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.
Act 16:26 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.
Act 16:27 And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, (LOL...ROFL!) and seeing the prison doors open( Oh NO...ROFL...Ha Ha lol...it gets better!), he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself (WE KNOW WHAT HAPPENED NEXT ...so we can laugh hysterically ), supposing that the prisoners had fled. (Can you picture it? ROFL....)
Act 16:28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.
Mercy activated is Gods Spirit emancipated!
Blessings
Arc
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I'm not neglecting this thread, just stalking it silently. So many replies, so little brain power. What to say...
I just wanted to let you know Judy i appreciate your care and post! I too am proud, but not in myself... i am ashamed of the beast within however, i take great PRIDE in MY FATHER who is MIGHTY. I have confidence because of Him.
Its funny because last night it really HIT ME while i was trying to sleep. I had once again given into the temptations and lust that accompony this cursed body! ugh.. and after having doing so, was greatly ashamed and sorrowed by my actions to which i began thinking. Why is it that its always AFTER i do WHAT I DONT WANT TO DO, that i realize i don't want to do this anymore? It seems like it always takes my own willingness to sin to turn me around and say, wait a minute.. i didn't want to do that! Then.. into my head... "THERE IS NONE GOOD, NO NOT ONE!" and our Beloved Lords words "Why do you call me good? There is none good SAVE GOD."
Oh how true... their is not one once in this body that wants to do good.. all goood things are truly from above. It takes God putting that desire into my heart to want to do whats good. And to think.. had I not known God.. i would never even think what i'm doing is wrong because this desire to do whats right is not coming from me.. its coming from My Father. Had He never called on me.. i'd be perfectly okay with this sinning machine that i am.
How strange. It took all this to see that, i mean.. i KNEW that only one is good, and thats God but it really really hit me last night that, WAKE UP ALEX, you think this desire to serve God is your owns? Remember, their is none good, that includes YOU alex. And so, now i'm thankful, that AT THE LEAST i have this desire from God to want to please Him. I only wish it would consume me so as to leave no room for sin!
FOR WHAT HAVE YOU THAT YOU DID NOT RECIEVE? Oh so true...
God bless,
Alex
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Profoundly mature sentiments Alex.
He's moving you on.
Just you keep a tight hold of that Holy Hem.
May He Bless you, Richly
Grape x
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llllboi16, it is good we do not have confidence in ourselves. It shows we know what and who we are. And thank you, I am not going to worry (fear) about this aspect of my personality anymore. So what if i make a mistake, how else do we learn.
Secret keeping is no more than keeping things in the dark and i do like to keep in the dark if i don't think i measure up! Too many years of comparing myself to the "good' people. Try revealing some of your sins to the "good" people! I've shocked more than a few and sometimes just for the shock value because i didn't see their understanding or compassion. (like it is their fault, but really they just don't know) (I usually attack if hurt)
One thing i remember from long ago (and thank God it was from long ago or i wouldn't remember it) is something i read, 'if God has called you keep yourself in good regard, not because you are of good regard but because He called you" And here i have been trying with all my might at times to measure up.
Hey world if you don't like me, tell God about it! I'm just a mirror for you and what God is trying to tell you. Sounds a bit harsh but at this time I need to be diligent about this attitude.
Hopefully, this will become a time of more peace for us in the emotions.
Love, judy
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Arc and Grape, thank you so much for your responses. It is a scary thing to lay oneself out there but everyone on this thread has given me courage to look a bit deeper into my own darkness.
Filled out my funeral arrangements and CHANGED my church affiliation. It is now L. Ray Smith. com Got to give credit where credit is due.
love, judy
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Why is it that its always AFTER i do WHAT I DONT WANT TO DO, that i realize i don't want to do this anymore?
That is how the Holy Spirit within you is leading you. You ARE following the path through which Jesus Christ HIMSELF leads you.
Your sorrow and agony ARE the way of The Lord. Sin is the way of the Beast. The Beast within IS being conquered by the Spirit of God within.
We ALL must go where we do not want to go.
The sweeter half of suffering lies ahead where the Devil leaves and messengers come and minister!
The time will come when the joy of the flesh is killed from the very centre of its existence. You are journeying to that very centre. Christ IS leading!
The emergence of your soul into the Trust of Christ, is OF Christ.
Laying down your life is not an agreement, fellowship or submission to the Beast. Despising the shame of it, is the increase within, of the overcoming Spirit of Christ Who has overcome the world.
Blessings
Arc
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Hey Judy
It is an absolute pleasure that you appreciate the responses you are receiving!
Credit all due to the Spirit of God. 8)
Blessings to you dear sister
Arc
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Amen Arc.
Thanks for your encouragement. :)
Grape
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Once again I sign on to the forum to find such articulate posting and so very timely. Judy, you inspire me. God is certainly working through you in beautiful ways.
I too am experiencing pull of the flesh and it's tearing me up inside. I've lost about 3 pounds in a week and have not slept well either.
I don't know where God is going with this but where He leads, I will follow.
Eileen
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I go to this site for a lot of things, but helping with my husbands chronic tiredness and as he says, "The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak" is not what I was seeking tonight! So, I'm just saying Dennis, this post didn't go where I expected, but thank you!
Alex, you are so thoughtful and you are so right. If you were not being drawn to Him, you would be happily sinning and not having a second thought about it. He is surely doing a mighty work in you- even though you may not always see the path he's laying out for you.
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I go to this site for a lot of things, but helping with my husbands chronic tiredness and as he says, "The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak" is not what I was seeking tonight! So, I'm just saying Dennis, this post didn't go where I expected, but thank you!
Alex, you are so thoughtful and you are so right. If you were not being drawn to Him, you would be happily sinning and not having a second thought about it. He is surely doing a mighty work in you- even though you may not always see the path he's laying out for you.
Thank you october, i actually needed to hear those words right now. This struggle is so tiring and it seems never ending. I'm trusting some of the words from the older men here that it gets easier with age.. I sure hope it does. I was hoping the pulls of the flesh would just die and rot in a grave somewhere where nobody cares about it but eh.. I guess ill settle for a slightly less stronger and less frequent pulling of this carnal lust >.> lol
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... I had once again given into the temptations and lust that accompony this cursed body! ugh.. and after having doing so, was greatly ashamed and sorrowed by my actions to which i began thinking. Why is it that its always AFTER i do WHAT I DONT WANT TO DO, that i realize i don't want to do this anymore? It seems like it always takes my own willingness to sin to turn me around and say, wait a minute.. i didn't want to do that! Then.. into my head... "THERE IS NONE GOOD, NO NOT ONE!" and our Beloved Lords words "Why do you call me good? There is none good SAVE GOD."
Oh how true... their is not one once in this body that wants to do good.. all goood things are truly from above. It takes God putting that desire into my heart to want to do whats good. And to think.. had I not known God.. i would never even think what i'm doing is wrong because this desire to do whats right is not coming from me.. its coming from My Father. Had He never called on me.. i'd be perfectly okay with this sinning machine that i am.
How strange. It took all this to see that, i mean.. i KNEW that only one is good, and thats God but it really really hit me last night that, WAKE UP ALEX, you think this desire to serve God is your owns? Remember, their is none good, that includes YOU alex. And so, now i'm thankful, that AT THE LEAST i have this desire from God to want to please Him. I only wish it would consume me so as to leave no room for sin!
FOR WHAT HAVE YOU THAT YOU DID NOT RECIEVE? Oh so true...
alex, the words you posted above are almost like you have a mirror up to my heart/mind, reflecting back the same understandings being revealed to you through the Spirit of Jesus Christ. the blue highlighted part is surely the heartfelt cry to our LORD we each have made as we walk this path He has made for us.
it is a joy to my heart to witness the growth in believing and understanding that He is working in your life little bra. 8)
claudia
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i haven't had time to read through every response yet so forgive me if i'm repeating. but i was just talking to my husband about this last week or so. how did Jesus not lust? of course it was his Father not allowing him. but how? i think perhaps it was in how Jesus saw people. He was probably so aware of our future state that it coloured what he was looking at. we see "fresh flesh", He sees rotting organic matter housing lost souls. we see a fancy car, He sees a future pile of rubble and rust that enslaves mens lusts.
i don't pretend to understand what you're going through, i think women are more enslaved to vanity. but i think you can apply the same idea. women spend a lot of time dressing up their rotting flesh, without regard for their souls getting uglier and uglier. we on this forum know which is more important to beautify. it might help to start trying to focus more on seeing things the way our Lord and Saviour probably did.
hope this helps.
with God all things are possible.
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Hey, I was hoping I could get some prayer from anyone who doesn't feel burdened remembering me anytime at all. I'm dealing with great struggles against the flesh, and I mean those struggles a man deals with... when his hormones rage like their is no tomorrow. I can't stand it, I know its not who I want to be, I know its not me, but I am absolutely powerless and even thats an understatement. I've tried time and time again, i'm constantly overcome. I've prayed for hours upon end, for months and months, years now. I feel like I've been thrown into a spiritual prison by the Lord. I want out.
Absolutely tired and tired of this, tired of wanting it one moment, then hating myself for having wanted it or done it the next. I feel like i'm absolutely bent and twisted upside down inside, the only thing that makes sense are pauls words... That which I want, I do not do and that which I do , I do not want... Ugh.. what a contradictive mess of desires I am!
I can't stand it, in my heart of hearts I want the Lord to reign over this temple and destroy this beast yet I find myself embracing the flesh at every temptation of it...
Prayers please.... Thank you.
That dang testosterone!!! Yea, thanks a lot, God! (JK :D )
Christopher
ROMANS 7