Need some advice about my religious beliefs
@sonicflood132 (159)
United States
June 19, 2007 1:20am CST
I believe that there is a God, because it's too difficult for me to believe in some spontaneous explosion as the cause for the earth and its inhabitants. However, I have a hard time grasping the idea of God, heaven, eternity, death, etc. Sometimes I start to become extremely concerned and worried about what will happen to my spirit or soul after I die that it brings me to tears...but I'm only 17 and I'm healthy, so I'm not at any guarantee-risk of death right now. My question to people who are religious is, how do you affirm your faith, and how do you "know" that there is a God and a heaven for us all to go to? How do you suggest that I strengthen my faith, and what ways can I assure myself of God?
I'm just interested what people have done to overcome faith struggles...mine occurs on a daily basis now, it seems. I've been trying to address it, but I wanted to get some general consensus from everyday people like myself before going to a pastor or something.
All responses will be GREATLY appreciated. Thank you guys. =)
4 responses
@sonicflood132 (159)
• United States
21 Jun 07
Thank you very much. Opening up is definitely something I've had a hard time with. I'm definitely working on it, though. Hopefully I will discover God in a more personal way if I allow him to guide me. Thanks. =)
@amaleigh73 (499)
• United States
19 Jun 07
First, I think you should examine why you believe what you do. Second, spend time in the Bible, but don't feel like you have to read a ton at once. Start in the book of John. I know sometimes things in the Bible are hard to understand so make sure you read a version in everyday language that you can understand. A Bible with commentary is also very helpful. Look up words in concordance like faith, salvation, eternal life. Third, find a Bible study for those that are new believers. Also, I don't know if you have ever read The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, but it is a great book and tool to help you examine why you were created and help you find purpose in your life. I hope that helps.
@sonicflood132 (159)
• United States
21 Jun 07
I actually received a bible entitled "My City, My God" a few months ago that I've been reading lately. It's translated into current English, like you would read in a contemporary novel. It's definitely very helpful, because it makes God seem more relevant and imminent in today's society. I think I will take your advice to join a bible study...even though I am not really a "new believer," I've never been a strong one, so I believe a class like that would definitely help. I've heard of the book you mention, mostly from friends who loved it. I think I will have to check it out next time I'm at the library. Thank you. =)
@DJ9020 (1596)
• United States
19 Jun 07
I 'know' because I 'believe'. The best way to strengthen your faith is to study it and live it. Whatever religion you follow, most will have some books of daily devotionals or study guides that you can get. Also, attend services regularly and listen to what your religious leaders have to say. I wouldn't follow any religion blindly, but study what they say, learn about it, see where you are truly led. I wish you blessings and much success. God does love you, and wants only the best for you, and will put people and situations in your way that will help you.
@sonicflood132 (159)
• United States
21 Jun 07
Thank you - yes, that's what I've told myself as well, I guess sometimes I waver in my beliefs. Then again though, doesn't everyone, I guess? Sometimes some people just more than others. I've been attending regular church for almost a year now as a chancel choir member. Singing is one of my talents/gifts, so it's something I use to feel connected to my religion, and I definitely think it's something that I can't explain except for a God-given talent. I also have a mentor from my church who's in her 20s, so we've been having a lot of discussions and meetings lately just to talk about what I'm thinking and feeling on the subject of God. Thanks. =)
@HighReed1 (1126)
• United States
6 Oct 07
Just believing in God is not enough. The Devil believes in God. You have to be saved. It doesn't sound like you are to that point yet.
It is hard to explain how I 'know' there is a god. I always just knew.
Maybe you should start by going to a church. You might have to go to a couple before you find one that has an understandable message that speaks to your heart. You don't have to start right off by going to a pastor. You are young enough, you could go to the Young Adults Sunday school to start addressing your concerns.
You have to take some things on faith. It's not as hard as you might think. We take many things on faith every day. Do you check to make sure the legs of any chair you sit on is sturdy? No. You take it on faith that it is. Do you check to make sure your car engine is still under the hood and in one piece? Probably not. You take it on faith that it is.
All of your questions may not be answered on Earth. There are just some things we aren't meant to know. We aren't God. If you find a Bible-believing church that speaks to your heart, that is a good place to start.
Hope this helps. :)
