I am struggling really bad right now. With what; you ask? Whether or not God exists. My Scientific side is fighting a major battle with my Spiritual side and I am not sure who is winning. The preponderance of evidence is on the side of Science but then my Spiritual side is hit with such a remarkable miracle that makes me question everything.
I have a cousin who struggled with alcohol, drugs, and smoking for over 20 years. He had read from the bible before but one day felt compelled to go sit in his bed and read it. He felt something come over him and quit drinking and doing drugs from that point on and a few weeks later gave up cigarettes "cold turkey". He never had any withdrawal symptoms from the drugs or alcohol which in itself is something after doing them for over 20 years. There had to be a higher power at work for him. This happened to him in the 1990s but I just recently heard the story from him.
I have never been much of a church goer and I doubt that will ever change. I really don't know which way to turn for answers because I am afraid of being judged. I know that there is a quote that is something like "judge not lest you be judged" and I am thankful that most of my friends are not judgemental but some of the most judgmental people I know are "Christians".
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1 year ago
I am not sure what to say, because I don't struggle with what to believe. The Christians who judge are ignorant and a hypocrite. I think that everyone should believe in what they want to believe in and if I ask questions, I am not judging, but am curious as to why you believe it. I might share some of my insight, but again, not judging. I think life is so complicated as it is that you need to believe in whatever gets you through it. Again, I will suggest researching different religions and beliefs. There is scientology as well. Lots of things to consider. I am here if you want to talk. I will not judge you.
ReplyDeleteHi, Susan! Now that school is started, we should go out for lunch! Science and spirituality are sister studies, so embrace them both and soak everything in. There is no wrong answer - both contain Truth. Spirit moves with each person individually to help you find what you seek. That is why all paths lead to God. (Despite what you have been told.) So daily ask Spirit, "what is it you wish me to know today?" You will notice that Spirit will move you to people, information, videos, anything that makes you go aha! Soon you will notice you have a daily connection and can ask anything you desire and the answers will be given to you. Have fun!
ReplyDeleteI like Christine's thoughts! Mine are nothing in comparison :0)
ReplyDeleteMandie and Christine, I like both of your thoughts. Thank you both for your insight.
ReplyDeleteChris is right, Susan. God gave you that mind that is questioning and if you are open to it, he will lead you to your answers. Why are you struggling? You are not under a deadline, you don't have to "decide" today what you believe. Relax, research, embrace your new knowledge like Chris suggests. Open your mind and see what adventures are waiting for you. Remember, spirituality is not necessarily Christianity.
ReplyDeleteI spent 7 years of my life working as a youth minister and 13 working in Science education. I am an ordained Deacon and an ordained Elder in my church but embrace scientific inquiry and believe that while all things were created, they have also evolved over centuries. While the collaboration of science and Faith can be a bit messy for the mind and spirit, I've come to a belief that embraces both. With this being said, I've had several moments in my life where there was a period of struggle before I was able to find a way to reconcile conflicting beliefs. I'm fortunate enough to have spiritual leaders who have similar beliefs about Faith and science and can empathize with the frustration that comes in times of uncertainty.
ReplyDeleteIt has been said that faith is the strongest only when it has been tested, questioned and even challenged. In the end if you still return to a similar belief your Faith is strengthened. If you don't then it probably wasn't a belief your spirit needed to embrace to be at peace.
I'd be glad to share my journey (by phone or in person) to my personal state of spiritual & science equilibrium if you think it would be helpful. If not, I wish you the best in discovering a place that gives YOU peace of mind and heart. : )