God's life, or yours? (Jesus, God, service, Lord)

[SoulTYPE]

Then what was your experience of life BEFORE you converted, ND?

(Not off topic btw)

[Scuba Pete]

Well, I see it as incredibly self-centered and selfish. My mom disagrees and points out that I was always helpful. But I was very ego-centric... something which I still struggle with. But I was always open to the truth. I don't mind "flip flopping" as some would call it. It is far better than being stubborn and stupidly wrong and letting pride dictate your beliefs.

[SoulTYPE]

Originally Posted by NetDoc

It is far better than being stubborn and stupidly wrong and letting pride dictate your beliefs.

I totally agree. Pride is a sin anyways. Have some virtual frubals, lol.

[Circle_One]

Originally Posted by lilithu

I do not see the two as being at odds with each other. Concern for my self is a commitment of my life to God, imo. To nourish my body and mind, to cultivate compassion for others - all these are in service to God, imo.

Extremely well put Lilithu!

[SoulTYPE]

Yes lilithu very good, but doesn't things like a rough childhood, peer pressure, etc need to be solved first?

[rivet]

Originally Posted by NetDoc

Ah, well I didn't get my act "together" until after I converted.

I agree. No better time than the present.

[lilithu]

Originally Posted by SoulTYPE01

Yes lilithu very good, but doesn't things like a rough childhood, peer pressure, etc need to be solved first?

Why can't they be done at the same time? I won't presume to speak for God, but I just can't believe that God would want you to put your life on hold - to not live while you are alive. We must all do what we need to do to tend to our own needs. We're no good to anyone else unless we do. The only thing is to be honest with oneself as to what those needs really are. Resolving personal issues is a real need. It's making oneself a better self. And as I said, I think that is part of giving one's life to God.

[rivet]

Originally Posted by SoulTYPE01

Yes lilithu very good, but doesn't things like a rough childhood, peer pressure, etc need to be solved first?

When you give your life to God, the past will lose its importance. What people will think of you will not matter so much.

[SoulTYPE]

Can God always solve these issues though?

[lilithu]

Originally Posted by SoulTYPE01

Can God always solve these issues though?

You mean issues like a rough childhood, peer pressure, etc? I believe that we have to solve these issues ourselves. Faith in God can give us resolve and perhaps put things in perspective, and of course our loved ones help us greatly too, but in the end, it is up to each of us to deal with our own demons.