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What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 8:06:57 AM
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SomeFineDay
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I would appreciate some wisdom on this topic. I have not always been the best Christian, but one thing I have been able to count on is that I could hear God's voice, that He would give me guidance, and that I could know that I was loved. I had no trouble knowing what was right and wrong, and I knew that even if I went astray he was there for me to turn back to.
So, nice things, and in a sense I am lucky, as I see others struggling with the above. However, there is one thing that I cannot understand.
I absolutely need help and guidance in one aspect of my life, and I have needed it for three and a half years now. I have prayed for help and guidance at least a thousand times, have thought about the situation at least two thousand times in reference to what God would have me do.
Still God is absolutely silent on this issue. He is not silent on other aspects of my life, at all, I can attest to that. In term of leading, convicting, teaching, comforting He is there. But on the other issue, nothing. There is a blank when I pray about it.
Pretty soon I am going to have to make up my mind on my own, it is not something I can put off much longer, and I am going to have to do it without God, very sad, and a bit scary.
I am not asking about anything that is morally wrong, as far as I know I have the typical walk, sometimes good, sometimes bad, I try to do what I should be doing ect..
Sometimes I am starting to get angry at God, because I do not understand how he can leave me like this when I need him.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 8:14:09 AM
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Calea37
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It sounds to me like God is allowing you to make this choice and decision the best you can. I would say to just keep it in prayer and make the decision you believe is best and ask Him to intervene if He chooses to.
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Calea
Isaiah 2:22 Stop trusting in man, who has but a breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he?
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 9:04:19 AM
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Szaftoo
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I agree with Calea. Sometimes God wants to stretch our faith by allowing us to make decisions without a clear word from Him. It's like when a parent allows their kids to learn by doing. Make a decision knowing He will be with you.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 9:14:19 AM
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URForgiven
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Go!
This is the exhortation of Jesus Christ...to go! And as you go...make disciples; as you go, make use of every opportunity to tell people about the hope that you have in Christ.
There was never any one activity of Jesus Christ that was more "spiritual" than any other, because He was at all times and in all ways completely dependent upon the Father. So much so that He could say truthfully, "I do nothing on my own, but only what the Father tells me to do", and, "I and the Father are One".
And yet for 30 years Jesus lived a relatively common and uneventful life. That was the Fathers good will and pleasure for Jesus Christ for 30 years, and during that time every act and every behavior of Jesus was just as spiritual as when He raised someone from the dead, or walked on water.
This applies to your situation in that as a Christian, as we abide in Christ, when we trust and depend upon Him and the leading on His Spirit within us...then whatever we are doing is spiritual. There is no one activity that we will be involved in that will be more spiritual than the next.
How does that work in a practical sense? We are back to the beginning...go! Waiting on the Lord is not sitting, it is going, and as you go, trusting Him to lead you, He will open [and close] doors [opportunities] in front of you...go through them! It is not a matter of what does God want you to do...it is a matter of what does He want to do through you...as you go.
Is there an open door in front of you? Is it an opportunity that does not go against the revealed truth in His Word? Then how do you know that it is not of God? Perhaps God has not left you waiting...perhaps God is waiting on you?
Peace
_____________________________
"Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit,
are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?" Galatians 3:3
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 9:32:30 AM
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SomeFineDay
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I don't know if God is waiting for me, I just know he is not there is regards to this. If I "reach" in normal prayer he is there, but if I "reach" in regards to this he is not.
It is a decision that affects others, so I need to know I am not making a mistake.
I know and believe that I can trust him, I just don't want to make a mistake I cannot retrieve.
It is just such a shock to be in emptiness.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 9:36:23 AM
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earthless
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God provides us guidance via His Word, the Bible. That is the primary and majority method He uses to speak to us and to His children.
We need to be careful with what we think we hear and or experience. Emotions are fickle and experiences can be deceiving.
_____________________________
Probing Today's Religious Movements | Promoting Doctrinal Discernment & Critical Thinking | Providing Reasons for Christian Faith & Ethics
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 9:39:51 AM
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DenimDiva
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Sometimes we make a mistake and think that God is being silent when in reality He is telling us to wait.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 9:42:13 AM
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dianetavegia
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From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
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SomeFineDay, I wish we knew more about the 'issue' so we could help more but understand.
I believe every, no EVERY issue we might ever face is answered in scripture. You might need to think through and really search, but the answer for all of our questions is in God's Word, even if the answer is 'you'll understand when that which is Perfect has come'.
You can search many versions of scripture at: http://bible1.crosswalk.com/
Wish we could help more. God Bless,
Diane
< Message edited by dianetavegia -- 6/18/2008 9:48:35 AM >
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 10:09:52 AM
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URForgiven
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quote:
ORIGINAL: SomeFineDay
I don't know if God is waiting for me, I just know he is not there is regards to this. If I "reach" in normal prayer he is there, but if I "reach" in regards to this he is not.
It is a decision that affects others, so I need to know I am not making a mistake.
I know and believe that I can trust him, I just don't want to make a mistake I cannot retrieve.
It is just such a shock to be in emptiness.
If you are in Christ, then we know that He is there. Either that door was never open to you, and you just have not come to terms with that, or you have not gone through the open door. But, without specifics, it is all just speculation. I am praying for you.
Peace
_____________________________
"Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit,
are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?" Galatians 3:3
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 12:00:08 PM
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mvic
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Earthless and DenimDiva got it right.
Be careful of what you may think you hear or experience. Check it out through guidance in the Bible. Discuss it with someone you trust: pastor, preacher etc...
By being silent God could be asking you to wait. Or He might be saying: No ... not yet.
_____________________________
http://www.holyvisions.co.uk
Welcome to my Blog
MEI VITA INDICO CHRISTUS
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 12:36:21 PM
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seekingwisdom
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I've experienced TWICE what you are describing in my walk as well. Both times I wanted something in my life that was not best for me at all. Both times it seemed guidance was fuzzy or could be misconstrued. When I look back I now realize it was my desire for what I wanted that clouded and sometimes even completely blocked the guidance I was seeking. I also think there were times that God was silent on the matters because I needed to actually make some mistakes in those situations to learn and grow.
What I learned from it in retrospect was that even though it seemed like he was absent in those needs he was right by my side all along and even though he was, in love, allowing me to stumble quite a bit, he never once allowed me to fall. Lessons were learned and I think I am a much wiser and stronger Christian for it now.
SW
_____________________________
Let the words of my mouth, and he meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and redeemer. Psalm 19:14
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 1:16:38 PM
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rcjames
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quote:
ORIGINAL: SomeFineDay
....Pretty soon I am going to have to make up my mind on my own, it is not something I can put off much longer, and I am going to have to do it without God, very sad, and a bit scary.
I am not asking about anything that is morally wrong, as far as I know I have the typical walk, sometimes good, sometimes bad, I try to do what I should be doing ect..
Sometimes I am starting to get angry at God, because I do not understand how he can leave me like this when I need him.
Well Somefineday, I know of nothing that God is silent on. How about sharing with us what you are lacking in knowledge and I assure you that there will be plenty of good and a few bad responses.
I will say that this statement of yours;
I am not asking about anything that is morally wrong, as far as I know I have the typical walk, sometimes good, sometimes bad, I try to do what I should be doing ect..
Is not acceptable behavour to God, and what you describe is not "Typical" as Christ is coming for a bride that is without spot or wrinkle.
Please be a little more open with us and maybe, just maybe, we can help.
Thsnks
RC
_____________________________
Just a country Preacher's humble opinion
Read the first chapter of my latest book here;
http://www.deliveranceofsara.com
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 1:28:31 PM
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_CANCELLED_
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I could have written this (original) post myself as I did the same thing about 8 or 9 years ago for a year and a half before I finally made the decision myself. I've always heard His answers to prayer--often in astonishing ways that can't be denied--but not on this one issue. I know sometimes it's not that He didn't answer, but that we weren't listening when we thought we were. That is, we didn't recognize the answer. Not saying that's what you did but more about myself; I still wonder if that's what I did.
I can't answer your question, I'm sorry. I was just relating to you. It can be very tough and I've analyzed it to death but never came up with an answer for myself. I hope you receive yours. God Bless you.
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Looking to buy1991 Won by One (out of) print by Argus Communications (see avatar) Leave PM here
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 2:04:26 PM
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rcjames
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Well I must disagree with you that He has not answered. He has and probably has done so in His Word.
Thasnks
RC
_____________________________
Just a country Preacher's humble opinion
Read the first chapter of my latest book here;
http://www.deliveranceofsara.com
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 2:11:50 PM
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SomeFineDay
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In a nutshell, my husband is a super type A personality, harsh and unforgiving in some ways. I need medical attention that if I do not receive it will eventually destroy my health. If I tell my husband it can go several ways, perhaps he will take it ok, but if he does not, he will either get so angry that he will be in a state of anger for years (possible), or it will lead to divorce because I don't think I can live through years of anger again and I file for divorce myself. Trouble is I have children, and because of his anger I have not left him alone with the children ever. If we divorce and we have shared custody, how can I ever know that they are alone with him (not physical, but emotional abuse).
So I know that God does not permit divorce, but on the other hand my health is something that he does not want destroyed either.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 2:17:29 PM
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SomeFineDay
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The only thing I can think of that God does not reply is that perhaps he wants me to fight for myself, to stand up for myself, because I often meek. But, I do not know.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 4:48:27 PM
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ladyichigo
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From: Makiki
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Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Stop living in fear. You need to tell your husband about your medical condition as it’s life threatening. But I think timing is important. Ask the Lord for His wisdom and ask Him for the right opportunity. Also the Lord to soften your husband’s heart, and that He will give your husband that peace that surpasses all understanding when you do disclose this information to him.
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Mari
Attending church and being confirmed does not define what a Christian is, though it may define a “religious” person.
David Wright - AiG
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 4:56:56 PM
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earthless
Posts: 5398
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SomeFineDay,
Do you understand that God speaks to His via the Bible, His Word?
Do you also understand that emotions are fickle and experiences can be deceptive?
_____________________________
Probing Today's Religious Movements | Promoting Doctrinal Discernment & Critical Thinking | Providing Reasons for Christian Faith & Ethics
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 5:11:52 PM
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daisies4u
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quote:
I need medical attention that if I do not receive it will eventually destroy my health
quote:
because of his anger I have not left him alone with the children ever
So what will happen to your children if this condition does destroy your health? Who will take care of/protect your children then?
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 8:45:48 PM
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SomeFineDay
Posts: 68
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quote:
ORIGINAL: earthless
SomeFineDay,
Do you understand that God speaks to His via the Bible, His Word?
Do you also understand that emotions are fickle and experiences can be deceptive?
Yes, I do, and I am not looking for a flaming sign in the sky, but I know that we also can count on the Holy Spirit to prompt in the right direction via word, experiences, still small voice ect.. I really can't find anything in the Word that applies to my situation.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/18/2008 8:47:30 PM
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SomeFineDay
Posts: 68
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quote:
ORIGINAL: daisies4u
quote:
I need medical attention that if I do not receive it will eventually destroy my health
quote:
because of his anger I have not left him alone with the children ever
So what will happen to your children if this condition does destroy your health? Who will take care of/protect your children then?
Nobody, there is only me, and that just another wrinkle to throw on top of my problem.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/19/2008 10:02:50 AM
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daisies4u
Posts: 234
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It is not wrinkle. You are those children's mother. It is your job to protect them, no matter what. It is really hard to give advice when you don't know all the details, but if I am reading between the lines correctly, I know where you are coming from. Fortunatly, in my situation, there were no children involved.
Do you have family in the area? You can separate from your husband without divorcing him. I am not saying God will not protect all of you, but He does give us the good sense to know when we are in a dangerous situation. You are not out of bounds to seek help.
Also, sometimes when God is silent, that means the answer is no. If you can never get peace over a situation then you have your answer. BUT - sometimes, even though we think we are seeking God's will, our ears are closed. I know for me it was because I wanted something so badly. I prayed and prayed, but it seemed like God was listening. When in reality, I was the one that wasn't listening.
I am praying for you. You are in hard place but I know God is there with you.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/19/2008 10:23:33 AM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1999
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
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quote:
I need medical attention that if I do not receive it will eventually destroy my health. If I tell my husband it can go several ways, perhaps he will take it ok, but if he does not, he will either get so angry that he will be in a state of anger for years (possible), or it will lead to divorce
I'm quite confused. What sort of medical condition do you have that you cannot share with your husband, that wold make him so angry that he'd be 'in a state of anger for years'?
Trust God.
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/19/2008 10:29:27 AM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1999
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
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quote:
ORIGINAL: SomeFineDay
quote:
ORIGINAL: earthless
Do you understand that God speaks to His via the Bible, His Word?
Do you also understand that emotions are fickle and experiences can be deceptive?
Yes, I do, and I am not looking for a flaming sign in the sky, but I know that we also can count on the Holy Spirit to prompt in the right direction via word, experiences, still small voice ect.. I really can't find anything in the Word that applies to my situation.
quote:
my health is something that he does not want destroyed either.
Is this illness due to sin?
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RE: What to do when God does not offer guidance? - 6/19/2008 12:31:39 PM
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SomeFineDay
Posts: 68
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quote:
ORIGINAL: dianetavegia
quote:
ORIGINAL: SomeFineDay
quote:
ORIGINAL: earthless
Do you understand that God speaks to His via the Bible, His Word?
Do you also understand that emotions are fickle and experiences can be deceptive?
Yes, I do, and I am not looking for a flaming sign in the sky, but I know that we also can count on the Holy Spirit to prompt in the right direction via word, experiences, still small voice ect.. I really can't find anything in the Word that applies to my situation.
quote:
my health is something that he does not want destroyed either.
Is this illness due to sin?
No it is just a combination of bad luck and genetically bad teeth.
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