Different playing fields

When I was a young teacher, I had a very strong willed, opinionated high school senior once tell me that anyone that believed in God and considered themselves Christians were weak souled individuals who didn't have a mind of their own. He knew that I was a Christian, so it was essentially a personal attack.

It really got me to thinking on a couple of different things. First, I didn't appreciate anyone, especially a student, making personal attacks against me. I had never experienced that before and so I to learn if and how I would deal with it. Second, it was my first realization that I wasn't in West Michigan (Bible belt of Michigan) any more.

You see, where I grew up, there was nearly a church on every corner and then a couple more in the middle of the blocks. There are literally churches everywhere you go. Sure, there are a number of different denominations, but basically all Christian. I grew up in a secluded, sheltered area. My parents never went to church, but the majority of people around me did and I did (with the neighbors) from when I was about the age of 5 on.

I love my God with a fierce love. My hearts desire to do His will and please Him. So, when someone is telling me to my face that I am weak and cannot think for myself because I love my God, I was hurt. It was then that I really understood that not everyone believes in my loving, compassionate God. I was saddened by this fact. Not because I felt I was right and they were wrong but becasue IF I was right, I would never see some of these people again after our lives on Earth are done.

Living in Denver really made me aware just how ungodly our nation is. In the area I lived (North Denver) it was about 97% unchurched. That is astounding to a little country girl who grew up in a town with a billion churches. It also made me aware that I cannot expect some people to be held to the same moral standards that I have held myself to. I means that when I disagree with someone on a spiritual issue, if they are not Christian I cannot just simply say, "because the Bible says so." That means nothing to someone who doesn't believe the Bible to begin with.

Coming from two different spiritual perspectives makes for an uneven playing field when in a discussion/arguement. You can't just rely on faith when making a point because the other person doesn't share the same faith. It's hard...it's very, very hard!

Breaking Free-Part 1

I am so excited to have started my second Beth Moore study. This one is called Breaking Free. It is an intense 11 week study that helps Christians break free of oppressions in our lives.

Last night was the first one and although she had an entire video filled with incredible things, there was one thing that really stood out to me. It was her 6th point..."God sees the potential of His children and appoints the experiences necessary for them to fulfill their destinies (Judges 6:11-16).

For those that know me personally and for those that have read some of my "story" here on my blog, you know that a lot of good and not so good things have happened in our lives in the past 4 years. I personally think I have done a great job not letting things get me down, but it is so reassuring to know that God "appoints experiences" to make me the Godly woman he wants me to be.

I am not a loose feather just floating around in the wind. I am a person that God knows intimiately. He knows his plans for me even when I haven't a clue.

Thank you, God!