My question is not regarding Revelation 22, just the Bible or Religion in general.
I was raised Catholic, went through all like Baptism, Confession, Communion, Confirmation, Holy Matrimony and attended Church on Sundays and other Religious days, But I do not ever remember reading a Bible. As a matter of fact, I don't think I ever really looked at a Bible, except for the Missles we had, till I was an adult. Also I sort of left the Catholic Church after a time. I started questioning things as a teen, and then later after a while just left it. I was always taught that it was a sin for Catholics to go to others churches, and I never understood that. But now I am hearing/learning/?? that I am not saved? If that is so, How do you know that I am not saved? Who says so and how do I get saved if I am not? Who will save me? What version of the Bible is the best for a beginner to start with??? And if I feel the need to talk to someone about this subject, who would that be?? I cannot talk to anyone I know, because the emotions flow out thru tears and I have a hard time with that. Sometimes, as old as I am I just feel like a lost soul. I KNOW that I am NOT a Satanist, but I am a sinner according to the 10 Commandments and I think I have always believed in God. Except for a time, when I thought Aliens might have hand a hand in our origins. But I sense that God or his spirit, or goodness has always been with me, even more so recently, though I could not for the life of me understand why. If you have any answers for me that would be awesome. I am open to it. Thanks and God Bless.
C: Confess. Romans 10:9: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." You need to tell others about what God has done for you & in you. This is important in your bold stand for the Lord your Saviour that will help you to also talk to others about the Gospel.
You will need to find a good Bible believing Church near you & speak to the Elder or Pastor about your salvation, that in time you may be baptized in water (full immersion) & not a sprinkling that you received as a baby. My suggestion of a Baptist Church, Brethren Assembly, Church of Christ or Assemblies of God, generally will welcome you & provide a sound fundamental teaching from the Bible. Maybe there will be someone there (the Pastor will know) who also has been an RC in the past & now saved through Christ. That believer will certainly be able to guide you through some of your concerns. Also, you can always write here to get a brief explanation on those.
You asked about an easy version of the Bible to read: I like the King James version, but if the older English is not easy for you, then maybe the New King James or New American Standard versions will be easier. I know I've written a lot here, but just wanted to encourage you to truly seek the Lord with all your heart - He is at your heart's door knocking waiting to come in & fellowship with you as His very own. ( Rev 3:20). You're in my prayers to this end.
Bless you for helping Barbara. I know you have much More knowledge than I of Roman Catholic Church. That's why the Body of Christ works well when we are together. It's a true blessing.
Indeed, brother Mishael: each part of Christ's Body, fitly joined together gives the strength to the Body, edifying itself unto love. We all need to offer help where we can & how much so, when a dear one seeking salvation will be in a raging battle for her soul. The enemy is not far with his mincing whispering words but the Spirit of the Lord is closer with His potent Holy Word. We do cover Barbara in prayer for Light & Salvation to be her assurance & joy.
That's all you need is faith in Him - nothing else - no added good works to guarantee salvation. ( Titus 3:5: "Not by WORKS of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost"). And Ephesians 2:8,9 "For by grace are ye saved through FAITH; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: NOT OF WORKS, lest any man should boast". If we add anything to faith for our salvation, then it's no longer of faith, but of works - & that is not God's salvation ( Romans 11:6).
So, we summarize knowing & receiving Salvation using our A B Cs:
A: Acknowledge. To understand & accept that Jesus is God's Son & that He came to give His Life for you & me on the Cross. This can only be done by Jesus, no one else. I know you will acknowledge this great Truth.
B: Believe. To repent of your sins, your old way of living, your old beliefs that were contrary to what the Bible teaches, & give all of that wrongdoing to Jesus to be put to death with His death. It is to say, "I'm sorry with all my heart Lord Jesus, for all my sin that I have done, so please forgive me & make me a new person & come in & fill me with your Holy Spirit Who makes me a child of God". But you must truly be convicted by the Spirit to cry for forgiveness. Just to say a prayer or repeat some words doesn't do anything - this is because we're talking about God changing your heart & giving His Spirit, not some contract. You may need to spend time talking to God about how you're feeling & start reading the Bible that will draw you to that point of being convicted of sin & able to truly repent from your heart & not your mind.
The Bible says: that there is only "one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" ( 1 Timothy 2:5; "If we confess our sins (to whom?), he (Jesus) is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" ( 1 John 1:9).
The Eucharist bread & wine mystically changed to the actual Body & Blood of Christ so you partook of Christ each time at Mass. The wafer tasted like a wafer, but you were required to believe that a physical change in them took place because Jesus was being crucified afresh each time. The Bible says in Romans 6:9,10: "Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth NO MORE; death hath NO MORE dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin ONCE: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God." The Eucharist (we call the Lord's Table) also has the bread & the wine but they are representative only of His broken Body & shed Blood for us at Calvary. If they were supposed to change into His actual Body, then His disciples should have rather eaten his flesh when they ate together in the Upper Room ( Luke 22:19,20). But they ate the bread & drank the wine instead, which were only emblems of His Body & Blood. So, the apostles & the Church (then & now) do not re-crucify Jesus each time but we remember His Death in this way as Jesus instructed.
I've only mentioned a few things that are important for you to know, but there is much more. The matter of not praying to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, or praying to the saints, or believing in purgatory, & many more RC teachings that are not in the Bible.
Yet, to answer your question: "how do I know if I'm saved?" Firstly, you need to know that Christ's salvation is only by having FAITH in what He did for you on the Cross: faith in His dying for your sins, taking your place; His Resurrection back to life showing that God accepted His Sacrifice; His Ascension back into Heaven & His intercessory work for you right now.
Barbara, thank you for being bold enough to share what you did & even though it's not possible to deal with all your questions fully, we can touch on some of the basics that may cause you confusion. I do share the Word with Roman Catholics occasionally & so am aware of their ingrained beliefs accompanied with the fear that holds them bound to the Church. Also to state, the very fact that you're troubled by this very important matter now, tells me that God's Spirit is at work in you to give you His Salvation. All your past history with the RC Church was for a season & for a reason, so that you may come to this time now when you realize that "I must be sure of being forgiven, of being in God's family & of an eternity with Him in Heaven - I don't want to feel lost or rejected anymore".
Well, the good news is that the Bible has all the answers for each one of us. What you had learnt about the Deity (Father, Son & Holy Spirit) is true: one God revealed to us in His three persons. If one part of God was missing, then He wouldn't be God & we would all be damned for our sins. Catholic teaching has evolved over time: at one time you were not allowed to read the Bible because you were told that you couldn't understand it & it was up to the priest to teach you from it. Now they allow you to read it for yourself. (See 2 Timothy 3:16).
You were told that it was only through the Church you could be saved; the Bible teaches that it is only through Jesus Christ we can be saved ( John 3:16: "whoever believes IN HIM shall not perish but have everlasting life". Acts 4:12:"for there is NONE OTHER NAME under Heaven, whereby we must be saved"). Once, you had to go to Confession, to a priest who acted as God's intermediary for you & you could then be absolved of your sins.
Don't be afraid to use this website for all of your needs. When you came into it and clicked on Questions: near it was a link to Become A Christian. You have so many questions; I think you will find them there.
I think God is calling you into a deeper relationship with Him. I know it's hard to switch to a different kind of church. More important is to combine it with a commitment to read the KJV Bible. Start in 1, 2, 3, John, in the back and read all the way through it. Underline 1 John 1:9. Jesus is who we confess our sins to. For me it was like an emergency room I had to go to a lot. Chris thinks the New King James Bible is easier to read.
Right now my phone is going dead and I will have to write back tomorrow evening, since I am child sitting a frisky 7Yr old grandson tomorrow. I'm going to copy something after this that will help you explore and navigate this website for studying purposes. God hold this child under your wings and keep her safe from all enemies: in Jesus Name.
*****
If you don't understand something; enter this website and use the SEARCH box. Type in a few words from the verse you want explained. Hit the New Testament only button; if that is where your scripture is.
Tap on the verse and it should turn yellow. Scroll downward till you see the COMMENTARY box. Open it and read what elder Scholars have commented on that scripture.
Really good Bible Study helps!
If the search engine can't find your scripture you'll see another BOX to take you directly to Google. I find a LOT of verses that way.
There's some really good links on the opening page to go to to learn new scripture or explanation.
Scroll to the red area and click or tap on: become a Christian. You can do this. You can ask Chris to help you. He knows what you're going through.
Hi, only today I heard a Wedding message that was from Revelation 22. The Gospel message, the glory of the Bible because of the hope provided, is reiterated in the last verses of Revelation. The message is to "Come". The reason to come is a reconciled peace in one's soul with God through his son Jesus. There is no other way to answer this message than to simply come and hear and believe by faith that the blood of the Lamb can cover you. Then the Spirit and the Bride can teach you enough that repentance within your life can come to pass. A new creature will be made if one follows through with a true repentance. Then the peace of God that drew you to "Come" will enter your soul and provide grace and peace to finish this part of eternity in the flesh. The wonderful part of this message is to come as you are and there are no exceptions on who may answer this message, it is for everyone while time remains. God bless our meditations and hope and bravery.
I cannot believe a couple of months have gone by since I found this site, and remembered to come back to it. I am humbled that you all came to help me. Thank you so much. Just having someone to talk through is a blessing in itself. I have since bookmarked it.
I haven't found a church yet, as I don't get out much. Since my Mother passed in '95, losing my best and dearest friend, and the other friends all moved away, as life goes, I more or less pulled inside myself with my grief. I did try to make new friends, but I do not seem to be the person I was, and just couldn't get past or trust my aching heart. So I just kept to myself. I know now that I should have gotten some grief counseling, as I ended up have carotid artery surgery and then a tripe by pass, which really brought me down, and that is a very long story.
I did buy a bible, however, after I found this site, although I am not sure I am getting much out of it. But I am going to do as Mishael suggested and start at the end...John. I say my prayers most every night, the RC Act of Contrition, The Hail Mary, the Lords Prayer, and end with the Glory Be, like on the Rosary beads. I am now starting to wonder about the Hail Mary. I have listened to The Growing Awareness, on Utube as well as GoodDog. And have heard so much stuff that quite frankly amazes me, and they claim it's all in the bible. Some is quite amazing and uplifting, some seems a little frightening, and some, I really cannot quite wrap my arms around.
The Satanic stuff really scares me. And the human trafficking is overwhelming. But since learning about the vatican etc...I am really glad that I got out of that. I believe my eyes are open now to a lot of the things that I did not see.
One thing I do know, is that God is great and he has been with me through my trials. I know that now. He has been leading me where I believe he wants me to go, and he has healed me when I needed it most. God Bless.
Jesus said to his disciples, "Be not afraid only believe". How simple, how to the point, and yet even the most knowledgeable, Bible learned , have yet come to grips with death. This is the subject that is the underlying reason why Christ came and died on the cross! As many times as I have read the scripture, physical death is and remains thee most difficult reality we face! It is in fact, the most unnatural occurrence we face in this life! Oh, that I could say the words of Thomas as he put his fingers into Christs side, and felt the wounds in His hands!"My Lord and my God"! Comprehending Christ words, understanding His will,are as simple as only believing! Unlike anything in this world, hearing His word, prayer, these are what we have, even the promise of eternal life! I believe the kjv is the spoken word of Jesus Christ! When you read this BOOK, you are hearing precisely from the creator of heaven and earth! My heart yearns to know Him as He is! Is this the same yearning we have when we loose a loved one? I have lost my little brother, and yet even after all these years ,I feel like He has never left. God Bless You, give you comfort in knowing that He is the great "I AM".
I am also concerned that maybe you have not experienced a new birth in Christ. This is essential as I shared in my initial four pages to you. Without being transformed by the Spirit of God, all you'll continue to have is an outward semblance of Christianity without the forgiveness, new life & power of God in you. Is that how you feel now or have you experienced a spiritual change in your life?
You also said that you haven't found a Church yet. I really feel that in your transitional position, you need a Church Pastor or Elder to counsel you & guide you in ways that we can't do here on this Site. Maybe if you find a Church near to you (as I mentioned in my previous comment) & call them & explain your position & grief since losing your Mother, they may be able to send someone to visit you to share & advise you. Please don't neglect attending a Church fellowship as Jesus has built His Church - His Body for a special reason (i.e. not Protestant or Catholic, etc.) but those that have come to Him by faith through the Cross. You're not saved by attending or belonging to a Church - salvation is through Christ alone. And when you meet with other believers & learn from the Bible together, then you grow in your faith & knowledge of God & you have folk who will support you in prayer & friendship. Do try to speak to someone to get help with this matter: it's very important.
May the Lord be with you at this time. Our prayers are with you Barbara.
Hello Barbara. I remember you well even though over two months have gone by. Thank you for writing again & letting us know of your welfare. You know, we're always around to share with you, help & encourage you in your often difficult life. So sorry to learn of your medical issues, but the Lord has brought you through & sustained you, for which we can praise & thank Him.
In regards to prayer & the Roman Catholic aspects of it, I realize that that is what you've learned & are accustomed to, but prayer is just 'talking with God': praising Him for Who He is & the life He has given you; praying for your concerns & for those you are concerned for; & asking Him to help you understand His Word, the Bible, that it will become real & precious to you. The Hail Marys, reciting the Rosary & any formative approach to God achieves nothing; what God wants from you are the words from your heart. I know that this is something you may not feel comfortable in doing but just get on your knees & talk to God as you would have talked & shared with your dear Mother. No appeal is needed to Mary or the saints - only to God alone. He always listens and He always answers when we come in faith & love.
I am so blessed to hear of how you are doing now. I lost my Mom a few years ago. Every time I start missing me, seeing her in her rocking chair; I think of her in heaven. It truly makes me happy.
Another story: after I was saved I lost my bar hopping friends rapidly. I invited them to sit with me at church. I was so lonely. I asked Jesus to help me make some new friends. Bam! I met an older gentleman at church who counseled me after I was saved because I had been in the occult; and had to learn spiritual warfare real quick.
He introduced me to his daughter and her husband who had a storefront church; all of sudden I have lots of new friends. That's when I got into street ministry. I had so much fun! I bless the Lord for carrying his baby lambs to all the right places and people.
Since I had been delivered from evil spirits, I was afraid when they would want to pray with me to receive the Holy Spirit. I had to be taught Who he is. John 16 and 17. Years later I knew the Holy Spirit was with me that first day I met Jesus.
Find a Church that greets you when you show up...every time.
Find out if they have a singles group, people your own age. We had potlucks or went to I-hop and got nachos for 6 ! It was great to hear how everybody came to believe in Jesus.
I guess to have friends, you have to be friendly. This is a whole change of direction in your walk with Jesus. Your mother is happy where she is; and probably making all new friends too. There's many gems of wisdom in Proverbs about making friends.
Song of Solomon is a book about how much Jesus loves us: I am My Beloveds...and my beloved is Mine!
One time I was trying to move a huge cedar chest down a hallway with un-tacked carpet. I was exhausted and prayed: I need my Beloved to help me move this, because I can't do it alone. Thank you Lord. I get up, put my hands on it and it moved easily where I had wanted it to go.
I was raised Catholic, went through all like Baptism, Confession, Communion, Confirmation, Holy Matrimony and attended Church on Sundays and other Religious days, But I do not ever remember reading a Bible. As a matter of fact, I don't think I ever really looked at a Bible, except for the Missles we had, till I was an adult. Also I sort of left the Catholic Church after a time. I started questioning things as a teen, and then later after a while just left it. I was always taught that it was a sin for Catholics to go to others churches, and I never understood that. But now I am hearing/learning/?? that I am not saved? If that is so, How do you know that I am not saved? Who says so and how do I get saved if I am not? Who will save me? What version of the Bible is the best for a beginner to start with??? And if I feel the need to talk to someone about this subject, who would that be?? I cannot talk to anyone I know, because the emotions flow out thru tears and I have a hard time with that. Sometimes, as old as I am I just feel like a lost soul. I KNOW that I am NOT a Satanist, but I am a sinner according to the 10 Commandments and I think I have always believed in God. Except for a time, when I thought Aliens might have hand a hand in our origins. But I sense that God or his spirit, or goodness has always been with me, even more so recently, though I could not for the life of me understand why. If you have any answers for me that would be awesome. I am open to it. Thanks and God Bless.
C: Confess. Romans 10:9: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." You need to tell others about what God has done for you & in you. This is important in your bold stand for the Lord your Saviour that will help you to also talk to others about the Gospel.
You will need to find a good Bible believing Church near you & speak to the Elder or Pastor about your salvation, that in time you may be baptized in water (full immersion) & not a sprinkling that you received as a baby. My suggestion of a Baptist Church, Brethren Assembly, Church of Christ or Assemblies of God, generally will welcome you & provide a sound fundamental teaching from the Bible. Maybe there will be someone there (the Pastor will know) who also has been an RC in the past & now saved through Christ. That believer will certainly be able to guide you through some of your concerns. Also, you can always write here to get a brief explanation on those.
You asked about an easy version of the Bible to read: I like the King James version, but if the older English is not easy for you, then maybe the New King James or New American Standard versions will be easier. I know I've written a lot here, but just wanted to encourage you to truly seek the Lord with all your heart - He is at your heart's door knocking waiting to come in & fellowship with you as His very own. ( Rev 3:20). You're in my prayers to this end.
That's all you need is faith in Him - nothing else - no added good works to guarantee salvation. ( Titus 3:5: "Not by WORKS of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost"). And Ephesians 2:8,9 "For by grace are ye saved through FAITH; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: NOT OF WORKS, lest any man should boast". If we add anything to faith for our salvation, then it's no longer of faith, but of works - & that is not God's salvation ( Romans 11:6).
So, we summarize knowing & receiving Salvation using our A B Cs:
A: Acknowledge. To understand & accept that Jesus is God's Son & that He came to give His Life for you & me on the Cross. This can only be done by Jesus, no one else. I know you will acknowledge this great Truth.
B: Believe. To repent of your sins, your old way of living, your old beliefs that were contrary to what the Bible teaches, & give all of that wrongdoing to Jesus to be put to death with His death. It is to say, "I'm sorry with all my heart Lord Jesus, for all my sin that I have done, so please forgive me & make me a new person & come in & fill me with your Holy Spirit Who makes me a child of God". But you must truly be convicted by the Spirit to cry for forgiveness. Just to say a prayer or repeat some words doesn't do anything - this is because we're talking about God changing your heart & giving His Spirit, not some contract. You may need to spend time talking to God about how you're feeling & start reading the Bible that will draw you to that point of being convicted of sin & able to truly repent from your heart & not your mind.
The Bible says: that there is only "one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" ( 1 Timothy 2:5; "If we confess our sins (to whom?), he (Jesus) is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" ( 1 John 1:9).
The Eucharist bread & wine mystically changed to the actual Body & Blood of Christ so you partook of Christ each time at Mass. The wafer tasted like a wafer, but you were required to believe that a physical change in them took place because Jesus was being crucified afresh each time. The Bible says in Romans 6:9,10: "Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth NO MORE; death hath NO MORE dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin ONCE: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God." The Eucharist (we call the Lord's Table) also has the bread & the wine but they are representative only of His broken Body & shed Blood for us at Calvary. If they were supposed to change into His actual Body, then His disciples should have rather eaten his flesh when they ate together in the Upper Room ( Luke 22:19,20). But they ate the bread & drank the wine instead, which were only emblems of His Body & Blood. So, the apostles & the Church (then & now) do not re-crucify Jesus each time but we remember His Death in this way as Jesus instructed.
I've only mentioned a few things that are important for you to know, but there is much more. The matter of not praying to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, or praying to the saints, or believing in purgatory, & many more RC teachings that are not in the Bible.
Yet, to answer your question: "how do I know if I'm saved?" Firstly, you need to know that Christ's salvation is only by having FAITH in what He did for you on the Cross: faith in His dying for your sins, taking your place; His Resurrection back to life showing that God accepted His Sacrifice; His Ascension back into Heaven & His intercessory work for you right now.
Barbara, thank you for being bold enough to share what you did & even though it's not possible to deal with all your questions fully, we can touch on some of the basics that may cause you confusion. I do share the Word with Roman Catholics occasionally & so am aware of their ingrained beliefs accompanied with the fear that holds them bound to the Church. Also to state, the very fact that you're troubled by this very important matter now, tells me that God's Spirit is at work in you to give you His Salvation. All your past history with the RC Church was for a season & for a reason, so that you may come to this time now when you realize that "I must be sure of being forgiven, of being in God's family & of an eternity with Him in Heaven - I don't want to feel lost or rejected anymore".
Well, the good news is that the Bible has all the answers for each one of us. What you had learnt about the Deity (Father, Son & Holy Spirit) is true: one God revealed to us in His three persons. If one part of God was missing, then He wouldn't be God & we would all be damned for our sins. Catholic teaching has evolved over time: at one time you were not allowed to read the Bible because you were told that you couldn't understand it & it was up to the priest to teach you from it. Now they allow you to read it for yourself. (See 2 Timothy 3:16).
You were told that it was only through the Church you could be saved; the Bible teaches that it is only through Jesus Christ we can be saved ( John 3:16: "whoever believes IN HIM shall not perish but have everlasting life". Acts 4:12:"for there is NONE OTHER NAME under Heaven, whereby we must be saved"). Once, you had to go to Confession, to a priest who acted as God's intermediary for you & you could then be absolved of your sins.
I think God is calling you into a deeper relationship with Him. I know it's hard to switch to a different kind of church. More important is to combine it with a commitment to read the KJV Bible. Start in 1, 2, 3, John, in the back and read all the way through it. Underline 1 John 1:9. Jesus is who we confess our sins to. For me it was like an emergency room I had to go to a lot. Chris thinks the New King James Bible is easier to read.
Right now my phone is going dead and I will have to write back tomorrow evening, since I am child sitting a frisky 7Yr old grandson tomorrow. I'm going to copy something after this that will help you explore and navigate this website for studying purposes. God hold this child under your wings and keep her safe from all enemies: in Jesus Name.
*****
If you don't understand something; enter this website and use the SEARCH box. Type in a few words from the verse you want explained. Hit the New Testament only button; if that is where your scripture is.
Tap on the verse and it should turn yellow. Scroll downward till you see the COMMENTARY box. Open it and read what elder Scholars have commented on that scripture.
Really good Bible Study helps!
If the search engine can't find your scripture you'll see another BOX to take you directly to Google. I find a LOT of verses that way.
There's some really good links on the opening page to go to to learn new scripture or explanation.
Scroll to the red area and click or tap on: become a Christian. You can do this. You can ask Chris to help you. He knows what you're going through.
Until tomorrow. Be at peace. Mishael
I haven't found a church yet, as I don't get out much. Since my Mother passed in '95, losing my best and dearest friend, and the other friends all moved away, as life goes, I more or less pulled inside myself with my grief. I did try to make new friends, but I do not seem to be the person I was, and just couldn't get past or trust my aching heart. So I just kept to myself. I know now that I should have gotten some grief counseling, as I ended up have carotid artery surgery and then a tripe by pass, which really brought me down, and that is a very long story.
I did buy a bible, however, after I found this site, although I am not sure I am getting much out of it. But I am going to do as Mishael suggested and start at the end...John. I say my prayers most every night, the RC Act of Contrition, The Hail Mary, the Lords Prayer, and end with the Glory Be, like on the Rosary beads. I am now starting to wonder about the Hail Mary. I have listened to The Growing Awareness, on Utube as well as GoodDog. And have heard so much stuff that quite frankly amazes me, and they claim it's all in the bible. Some is quite amazing and uplifting, some seems a little frightening, and some, I really cannot quite wrap my arms around.
The Satanic stuff really scares me. And the human trafficking is overwhelming. But since learning about the vatican etc...I am really glad that I got out of that. I believe my eyes are open now to a lot of the things that I did not see.
One thing I do know, is that God is great and he has been with me through my trials. I know that now. He has been leading me where I believe he wants me to go, and he has healed me when I needed it most. God Bless.
I am also concerned that maybe you have not experienced a new birth in Christ. This is essential as I shared in my initial four pages to you. Without being transformed by the Spirit of God, all you'll continue to have is an outward semblance of Christianity without the forgiveness, new life & power of God in you. Is that how you feel now or have you experienced a spiritual change in your life?
You also said that you haven't found a Church yet. I really feel that in your transitional position, you need a Church Pastor or Elder to counsel you & guide you in ways that we can't do here on this Site. Maybe if you find a Church near to you (as I mentioned in my previous comment) & call them & explain your position & grief since losing your Mother, they may be able to send someone to visit you to share & advise you. Please don't neglect attending a Church fellowship as Jesus has built His Church - His Body for a special reason (i.e. not Protestant or Catholic, etc.) but those that have come to Him by faith through the Cross. You're not saved by attending or belonging to a Church - salvation is through Christ alone. And when you meet with other believers & learn from the Bible together, then you grow in your faith & knowledge of God & you have folk who will support you in prayer & friendship. Do try to speak to someone to get help with this matter: it's very important.
May the Lord be with you at this time. Our prayers are with you Barbara.
Hello Barbara. I remember you well even though over two months have gone by. Thank you for writing again & letting us know of your welfare. You know, we're always around to share with you, help & encourage you in your often difficult life. So sorry to learn of your medical issues, but the Lord has brought you through & sustained you, for which we can praise & thank Him.
In regards to prayer & the Roman Catholic aspects of it, I realize that that is what you've learned & are accustomed to, but prayer is just 'talking with God': praising Him for Who He is & the life He has given you; praying for your concerns & for those you are concerned for; & asking Him to help you understand His Word, the Bible, that it will become real & precious to you. The Hail Marys, reciting the Rosary & any formative approach to God achieves nothing; what God wants from you are the words from your heart. I know that this is something you may not feel comfortable in doing but just get on your knees & talk to God as you would have talked & shared with your dear Mother. No appeal is needed to Mary or the saints - only to God alone. He always listens and He always answers when we come in faith & love.
I am so blessed to hear of how you are doing now. I lost my Mom a few years ago. Every time I start missing me, seeing her in her rocking chair; I think of her in heaven. It truly makes me happy.
Another story: after I was saved I lost my bar hopping friends rapidly. I invited them to sit with me at church. I was so lonely. I asked Jesus to help me make some new friends. Bam! I met an older gentleman at church who counseled me after I was saved because I had been in the occult; and had to learn spiritual warfare real quick.
He introduced me to his daughter and her husband who had a storefront church; all of sudden I have lots of new friends. That's when I got into street ministry. I had so much fun! I bless the Lord for carrying his baby lambs to all the right places and people.
Since I had been delivered from evil spirits, I was afraid when they would want to pray with me to receive the Holy Spirit. I had to be taught Who he is. John 16 and 17. Years later I knew the Holy Spirit was with me that first day I met Jesus.
Find a Church that greets you when you show up...every time.
Find out if they have a singles group, people your own age. We had potlucks or went to I-hop and got nachos for 6 ! It was great to hear how everybody came to believe in Jesus.
I guess to have friends, you have to be friendly. This is a whole change of direction in your walk with Jesus. Your mother is happy where she is; and probably making all new friends too. There's many gems of wisdom in Proverbs about making friends.
Song of Solomon is a book about how much Jesus loves us: I am My Beloveds...and my beloved is Mine!
One time I was trying to move a huge cedar chest down a hallway with un-tacked carpet. I was exhausted and prayed: I need my Beloved to help me move this, because I can't do it alone. Thank you Lord. I get up, put my hands on it and it moved easily where I had wanted it to go.
Give Jesus a Chance to be a friend.
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