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Post by tlsitd on Apr 16, 2018 10:11:15 GMT -5
I am requesting prayer for spiritual strength and comfort.
(I hesitated to post this request: It's taking a risk on my part, as I know there are some who would like to do me harm (hopefully not on this forum), and I've suffered a lot of pain from other Christians, which causes me to be very cautious about what I share about myself---lest I have pain added to my pain. It's a shame that it is this way, but most of the pain I've suffered in my Christian life has not come from unbelievers but from other Christians or professing Christians; and given my particular calling and the nature of the times, which I know, that is to be expected. Knowing this, however, doesn't make the experience any easier for me. So this is a risk for me, posting this request here, not knowing what may be done with the information; but it's a risk that I've decided to take, in the hopes that good will come of it, both for myself and for others.)
I am accustomed to serving and strengthening others---which is as it should be, and which I do by God's grace; but I seldom receive the same: It's largely a one-sided service. I give far more than I receive; and it's tiring, to be always giving and giving of what the Lord has given me to give and to have it rejected or repaid with evil, and also not to receive much spiritual refreshment from others myself, even when they do appreciate what I do for them. I'm not resentful, nor am I grumbling; just stating a fact. And I am tired; mentally and emotionally worn out.
If Jesus did not strengthen me by His grace day to day, I wouldn't be able to function. When I say that the Lord is sustaining me, I mean that quite literally. He keeps me from sinking into utter depression and becoming debilitated, which I have every rightful reason to be, given what I've been through and continue to go through, according to His will. He carries me, but it's not pleasant or easy.
I recognize, at least in part, the reason for my suffering, which is by God's will for me and has a purpose---besides just being a consequence of the times in which we are living and my choice to deny myself and take up my cross daily in order to follow the Lord. And He does indeed sustain me, which I am very thankful for and frequently rejoice on account of and am amazed by. (The benefit of weakness, hardships and personal helplessness is experiencing God's power and faithfulness, as Paul wrote; and I can attest, from personal experience, that what he wrote is true.)
Whether I have prayers or encouragement from others or not, I know that Jesus Himself will sustain me to the end of my course, one day at a time, and enable me to do whatever He wills in His own strength. But I would appreciate prayers from other Christians for Him to do this for me and to comfort me, because I do not have an easy or pleasant lot. My strength is Jesus; I'm not superhuman. I'd have given up and crumpled up long ago if it weren't for Him reviving me and holding me up.
So that's my prayer request: That the Lord would strengthen me spiritually and comfort me in doing whatever He is pleased for me to do and to do through me, and to endure whatever I have to endure according to His will, for my own benefit and that of others.
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Post by frienduff on Apr 16, 2018 11:21:15 GMT -5
I am requesting prayer for spiritual strength and comfort. (I hesitated to post this request: It's taking a risk on my part, as I know there are some who would like to do me harm (hopefully not on this forum), and I've suffered a lot of pain from other Christians, which causes me to be very cautious about what I share about myself---lest I have pain added to my pain. It's a shame that it is this way, but most of the pain I've suffered in my Christian life has not come from unbelievers but from other Christians or professing Christians; and given my particular calling and the nature of the times, which I know, that is to be expected. Knowing this, however, doesn't make the experience any easier for me. So this is a risk for me, posting this request here, not knowing what may be done with the information; but it's a risk that I've decided to take, in the hopes that good will come of it, both for myself and for others.) I am accustomed to serving and strengthening others---which is as it should be, and which I do by God's grace; but I seldom receive the same: It's largely a one-sided service. I give far more than I receive; and it's tiring, to be always giving and giving of what the Lord has given me to give and to have it rejected or repaid with evil, and also not to receive much spiritual refreshment from others myself, even when they do appreciate what I do for them. I'm not resentful, nor am I grumbling; just stating a fact. And I am tired; mentally and emotionally worn out. If Jesus did not strengthen me by His grace day to day, I wouldn't be able to function. When I say that the Lord is sustaining me, I mean that quite literally. He keeps me from sinking into utter depression and becoming debilitated, which I have every rightful reason to be, given what I've been through and continue to go through, according to His will. He carries me, but it's not pleasant or easy. I recognize, at least in part, the reason for my suffering, which is by God's will for me and has a purpose---besides just being a consequence of the times in which we are living and my choice to deny myself and take up my cross daily in order to follow the Lord. And He does indeed sustain me, which I am very thankful for and frequently rejoice on account of and am amazed by. (The benefit of weakness, hardships and personal helplessness is experiencing God's power and faithfulness, as Paul wrote; and I can attest, from personal experience, that what he wrote is true.) Whether I have prayers or encouragement from others or not, I know that Jesus Himself will sustain me to the end of my course, one day at a time, and enable me to do whatever He wills in His own strength. But I would appreciate prayers from other Christians for Him to do this for me and to comfort me, because I do not have an easy or pleasant lot. My strength is Jesus; I'm not superhuman. I'd have given up and crumpled up long ago if it weren't for Him reviving me and holding me up. So that's my prayer request: That the Lord would strengthen me spiritually and comfort me in doing whatever He is pleased for me to do and to do through me, and to endure whatever I have to endure according to His will, for my own benefit and that of others.
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Post by John on Apr 16, 2018 11:21:23 GMT -5
What you are describing is something that a lot of servants of God have to deal with, the feeling of being isolated, and also having to deal with persecutions for telling the truth. Jeremiah knew what that was like, as did Elijah. There are few I can count on in this life to stand with me.
I have made a commitment to pray for everyone who is part of Narrow Way, and so I have already been praying for you, but since you have mentioned specific things you are dealing with, I will be more direct in my prayers on your behalf. Be encouraged. If you are being persecuted, you are in good company. The ones that have reason for concern are those everyone speaks good about, as that is how it was for the false prophets. Those who continue to stand for God will have a great reward in heaven.
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Post by frienduff on Apr 16, 2018 11:24:02 GMT -5
Sister you loved . We will be praying in agreement with you . The lambs love CHRIST and they love and look out for all who are of HIM. So you just rejoice in the LORD SISTER . prayers are coming your way. For its by the SPIRIT we pray one for another . And just one quick reminder of what you already Know, OUR RICHES are IN HEAVEN , JESUS IS OUR RICHES and HE shall recompense us at the resurrection of the just . SO you sing that song with much joy . And we will be praying for you . You loved sister , the lambs of the GREAT SHEPARD will love one another too and look out for one another .
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Post by tlsitd on Apr 16, 2018 11:31:42 GMT -5
What you are describing is something that a lot of servants of God have to deal with, the feeling of being isolated, and also having to deal with persecutions for telling the truth. Jeremiah knew what that was like, as did Elijah. There are few I can count on in this life to stand with me. I have made a commitment to pray for everyone who is part of Narrow Way, and so I have already been praying for you, but since you have mentioned specific things you are dealing with, I will be more direct in my prayers on your behalf. Be encouraged. If you are being persecuted, you are in good company. The ones that have reason for concern are those everyone speaks good about, as that is how it was for the false prophets. Those who continue to stand for God will have a great reward in heaven. Thank you for this, brother. The reminder is much appreciated, as are your prayers.
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Post by 2fw8212a on Apr 16, 2018 12:14:20 GMT -5
I am requesting prayer for spiritual strength and comfort. (I hesitated to post this request: It's taking a risk on my part, as I know there are some who would like to do me harm (hopefully not on this forum), and I've suffered a lot of pain from other Christians, which causes me to be very cautious about what I share about myself---lest I have pain added to my pain. It's a shame that it is this way, but most of the pain I've suffered in my Christian life has not come from unbelievers but from other Christians or professing Christians; and given my particular calling and the nature of the times, which I know, that is to be expected. Knowing this, however, doesn't make the experience any easier for me. So this is a risk for me, posting this request here, not knowing what may be done with the information; but it's a risk that I've decided to take, in the hopes that good will come of it, both for myself and for others.) I am accustomed to serving and strengthening others---which is as it should be, and which I do by God's grace; but I seldom receive the same: It's largely a one-sided service. I give far more than I receive; and it's tiring, to be always giving and giving of what the Lord has given me to give and to have it rejected or repaid with evil, and also not to receive much spiritual refreshment from others myself, even when they do appreciate what I do for them. I'm not resentful, nor am I grumbling; just stating a fact. And I am tired; mentally and emotionally worn out. If Jesus did not strengthen me by His grace day to day, I wouldn't be able to function. When I say that the Lord is sustaining me, I mean that quite literally. He keeps me from sinking into utter depression and becoming debilitated, which I have every rightful reason to be, given what I've been through and continue to go through, according to His will. He carries me, but it's not pleasant or easy. I recognize, at least in part, the reason for my suffering, which is by God's will for me and has a purpose---besides just being a consequence of the times in which we are living and my choice to deny myself and take up my cross daily in order to follow the Lord. And He does indeed sustain me, which I am very thankful for and frequently rejoice on account of and am amazed by. (The benefit of weakness, hardships and personal helplessness is experiencing God's power and faithfulness, as Paul wrote; and I can attest, from personal experience, that what he wrote is true.) Whether I have prayers or encouragement from others or not, I know that Jesus Himself will sustain me to the end of my course, one day at a time, and enable me to do whatever He wills in His own strength. But I would appreciate prayers from other Christians for Him to do this for me and to comfort me, because I do not have an easy or pleasant lot. My strength is Jesus; I'm not superhuman. I'd have given up and crumpled up long ago if it weren't for Him reviving me and holding me up. So that's my prayer request: That the Lord would strengthen me spiritually and comfort me in doing whatever He is pleased for me to do and to do through me, and to endure whatever I have to endure according to His will, for my own benefit and that of others. OK, I already have experienced something similar to what you have described.
An advice would be to ignore all evil and depressive thoughts as they are coming to put you down.
I know this is not as easy to do when we are weak. But I believe harder challenges come to test ourselves.
"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." - James 1:2-3
And try not to think about negative past experiences, but seek to erase them from your memory.So that's my prayer request: That the Lord would strengthen me spiritually and comfort me in doing whatever He is pleased for me to do and to do through me, and to endure whatever I have to endure according to His will, for my own benefit and that of others. Praying for you...! You are loved.
Focus on the Lord and His words, He will surely recover you from such state sooner than you think.
"So Jesus answered and said to them, Have faith in God." - Mark 11:22
God bless you in Jesus' name!
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Post by Deleted on Apr 16, 2018 14:47:57 GMT -5
The journey can sometimes seem long and we can get tired at times. Maybe take a break from other demands to just spend some time alone with the Lord and let Him minister to you for a while sister, and recharge and recalibrate. You matter to Him as much as those you are serving. Feeling depleted might be His way of drawing you aside to be alone with Him for a bit.
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Post by John on Apr 16, 2018 14:58:03 GMT -5
The journey can sometimes seem long and we can get tired at times. Maybe take a break from other demands to just spend some time alone with the Lord and let Him minister to you for a while sister, and recharge and recalibrate. You matter to Him as much as those you are serving. Feeling depleted might be His way of drawing you aside to be alone with Him for a bit. That is good advise. In addition, it might be good to stay away from places where non-stop attacks and confrontation takes place, or possibly just say your peace, and don't hang around to see the responses. We are responsible to speak what the Lord has told us to, but not to stress over the reactions or argue to try to win people over. If they don't receive us, shake the dust off your shoes, and go elsewhere. We are only human, and can only take so much. Never disobey God, but I have never seen where he commands us to continue to strive with people that reject his words.
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Post by 2fw8212a on Apr 16, 2018 16:22:05 GMT -5
...it might be good to stay away from places where non-stop attacks and confrontation takes place, or possibly just say your peace, and don't hang around to see the responses. We are responsible to speak what the Lord has told us to, but not to stress over the reactions or argue to try to win people over. If they don't receive us, shake the dust off your shoes, and go elsewhere. It is very intriguing when people say you are wrong for doing what you were commanded to do.
But if believing, and consequently practicing the Word of God is something wrong in this world... Then I do not want to be right.
"It is a joy for the just to do justice, But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity." - Proverbs 21:15
This world is lost, completely lost. Its end should probably be the lake of fire... And who are following it?!
It is much better to follow Jesus... This world and demons will try to discourage and fight against you, but in Christ we are winners.
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." - John 16:33...Never disobey God, but I have never seen where he commands us to continue to strive with people that reject his words. "...but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe." - 1 Corinthians 14:22
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Post by John on Apr 16, 2018 18:00:44 GMT -5
...it might be good to stay away from places where non-stop attacks and confrontation takes place, or possibly just say your peace, and don't hang around to see the responses. We are responsible to speak what the Lord has told us to, but not to stress over the reactions or argue to try to win people over. If they don't receive us, shake the dust off your shoes, and go elsewhere. It is very intriguing when people say you are wrong for doing what you were commanded to do.
But if believing, and consequently practicing the Word of God is something wrong in this world... Then I do not want to be right.
"It is a joy for the just to do justice, But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity." - Proverbs 21:15
This world is lost, completely lost. Its end should probably be the lake of fire... And who are following it?!
It is much better to follow Jesus... This world and demons will try to discourage and fight against you, but in Christ we are winners.
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." - John 16:33...Never disobey God, but I have never seen where he commands us to continue to strive with people that reject his words. "...but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe." - 1 Corinthians 14:22The way I see it, if God tells you to continually argue back and forth with people that reject you, never disobey God. I just know that Jesus told his disciples that if they enter into a city and are rejected, to shake off the dust as a testimony against them and go to another city. I am coming from the standpoint of a person who has been made weak from endless attacks and needs to take a break from the strife for their own spiritual well being. If you feel like you are ready for a fight, and the Lord is directing you to do battle, you should do it. You can't listen to the advise of someone who would tell you to disobey God. Paul had well meaning people tell him not to go to Jerusalem, but he went anyway. They weren't bad people or false prophets. What they said would happen did happen. They were just concerned for Paul's safety.
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Post by tlsitd on Apr 16, 2018 18:19:58 GMT -5
...it might be good to stay away from places where non-stop attacks and confrontation takes place, or possibly just say your peace, and don't hang around to see the responses. We are responsible to speak what the Lord has told us to, but not to stress over the reactions or argue to try to win people over. If they don't receive us, shake the dust off your shoes, and go elsewhere. It is very intriguing when people say you are wrong for doing what you were commanded to do.
But if believing, and consequently practicing the Word of God is something wrong in this world... Then I do not want to be right.
"It is a joy for the just to do justice, But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity." - Proverbs 21:15
This world is lost, completely lost. Its end should probably be the lake of fire... And who are following it?!
It is much better to follow Jesus... This world and demons will try to discourage and fight against you, but in Christ we are winners.
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." - John 16:33...Never disobey God, but I have never seen where he commands us to continue to strive with people that reject his words. "...but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe." - 1 Corinthians 14:22I follow the Lord's leading with regard to what I say and how much and to whom (and for how long). I don't quarrel, and I don't waste my time with people who are contentious and insincere, though I may continue to pray for them. Still, I'm not unaffected. If you don't love, you don't feel pain. But the more deeply you love, the more deeply you hurt. It's not only my own pain that I feel, but Jesus' too. And that's something I cannot help.
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Post by frienduff on Apr 16, 2018 21:39:18 GMT -5
...it might be good to stay away from places where non-stop attacks and confrontation takes place, or possibly just say your peace, and don't hang around to see the responses. We are responsible to speak what the Lord has told us to, but not to stress over the reactions or argue to try to win people over. If they don't receive us, shake the dust off your shoes, and go elsewhere. It is very intriguing when people say you are wrong for doing what you were commanded to do.
But if believing, and consequently practicing the Word of God is something wrong in this world... Then I do not want to be right.
"It is a joy for the just to do justice, But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity." - Proverbs 21:15
This world is lost, completely lost. Its end should probably be the lake of fire... And who are following it?!
It is much better to follow Jesus... This world and demons will try to discourage and fight against you, but in Christ we are winners.
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." - John 16:33...Never disobey God, but I have never seen where he commands us to continue to strive with people that reject his words. "...but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe." - 1 Corinthians 14:22
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Post by frienduff on Apr 16, 2018 21:41:13 GMT -5
Well be blessed letters . This lil place seems to want to follow the Lord and talk about those things pleasing in His sight . its far more peaceful at a place where the people who gather are just wanting a closer walk with the Lord and exhort to do the things pleasing in His sight .
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Post by Sister on Apr 17, 2018 0:44:48 GMT -5
I am requesting prayer for spiritual strength and comfort. (I hesitated to post this request: It's taking a risk on my part, as I know there are some who would like to do me harm (hopefully not on this forum), and I've suffered a lot of pain from other Christians, which causes me to be very cautious about what I share about myself---lest I have pain added to my pain. It's a shame that it is this way, but most of the pain I've suffered in my Christian life has not come from unbelievers but from other Christians or professing Christians; and given my particular calling and the nature of the times, which I know, that is to be expected. Knowing this, however, doesn't make the experience any easier for me. So this is a risk for me, posting this request here, not knowing what may be done with the information; but it's a risk that I've decided to take, in the hopes that good will come of it, both for myself and for others.) I am accustomed to serving and strengthening others---which is as it should be, and which I do by God's grace; but I seldom receive the same: It's largely a one-sided service. I give far more than I receive; and it's tiring, to be always giving and giving of what the Lord has given me to give and to have it rejected or repaid with evil, and also not to receive much spiritual refreshment from others myself, even when they do appreciate what I do for them. I'm not resentful, nor am I grumbling; just stating a fact. And I am tired; mentally and emotionally worn out. If Jesus did not strengthen me by His grace day to day, I wouldn't be able to function. When I say that the Lord is sustaining me, I mean that quite literally. He keeps me from sinking into utter depression and becoming debilitated, which I have every rightful reason to be, given what I've been through and continue to go through, according to His will. He carries me, but it's not pleasant or easy. I recognize, at least in part, the reason for my suffering, which is by God's will for me and has a purpose---besides just being a consequence of the times in which we are living and my choice to deny myself and take up my cross daily in order to follow the Lord. And He does indeed sustain me, which I am very thankful for and frequently rejoice on account of and am amazed by. (The benefit of weakness, hardships and personal helplessness is experiencing God's power and faithfulness, as Paul wrote; and I can attest, from personal experience, that what he wrote is true.) Whether I have prayers or encouragement from others or not, I know that Jesus Himself will sustain me to the end of my course, one day at a time, and enable me to do whatever He wills in His own strength. But I would appreciate prayers from other Christians for Him to do this for me and to comfort me, because I do not have an easy or pleasant lot. My strength is Jesus; I'm not superhuman. I'd have given up and crumpled up long ago if it weren't for Him reviving me and holding me up. So that's my prayer request: That the Lord would strengthen me spiritually and comfort me in doing whatever He is pleased for me to do and to do through me, and to endure whatever I have to endure according to His will, for my own benefit and that of others. Luke 12:32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. I can completely relate to what you are saying. I have prayed with the others for you to keep up the strength to endure. Your posts, replies, rebuttals, are written so eloquently and are so powerful. No one can speak like that with so much truth unless they have the spirit of God. As soon as I read your very first post on Worthy I knew immediately you were of the small flock. I have learnt from you sister, with the spiritual reminders and wisdom you so freely share. I hope that you can learn of me and the others also because the Lord gives us all a different measure and reveals different things. Our backgrounds are all so different, and what we fight against is different, but the same enemy. Sister, be encouraged, the devil never gives up day nor night. The more powerful our message becomes, the more he will put against us. If any of us do not feel the way you do then there is something wrong in our walk. This journey is a labour of love and we often get weighed down or feel a little flat because it feels like sometimes no one is listening. What you pour out are the real jewels of the spirit. I feel so blessed to have you in my life, and if you are sad then I am sad. I will mourn and rejoice with you for in Christ we are truly one.
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Post by tlsitd on Apr 17, 2018 4:15:21 GMT -5
I am requesting prayer for spiritual strength and comfort. (I hesitated to post this request: It's taking a risk on my part, as I know there are some who would like to do me harm (hopefully not on this forum), and I've suffered a lot of pain from other Christians, which causes me to be very cautious about what I share about myself---lest I have pain added to my pain. It's a shame that it is this way, but most of the pain I've suffered in my Christian life has not come from unbelievers but from other Christians or professing Christians; and given my particular calling and the nature of the times, which I know, that is to be expected. Knowing this, however, doesn't make the experience any easier for me. So this is a risk for me, posting this request here, not knowing what may be done with the information; but it's a risk that I've decided to take, in the hopes that good will come of it, both for myself and for others.) I am accustomed to serving and strengthening others---which is as it should be, and which I do by God's grace; but I seldom receive the same: It's largely a one-sided service. I give far more than I receive; and it's tiring, to be always giving and giving of what the Lord has given me to give and to have it rejected or repaid with evil, and also not to receive much spiritual refreshment from others myself, even when they do appreciate what I do for them. I'm not resentful, nor am I grumbling; just stating a fact. And I am tired; mentally and emotionally worn out. If Jesus did not strengthen me by His grace day to day, I wouldn't be able to function. When I say that the Lord is sustaining me, I mean that quite literally. He keeps me from sinking into utter depression and becoming debilitated, which I have every rightful reason to be, given what I've been through and continue to go through, according to His will. He carries me, but it's not pleasant or easy. I recognize, at least in part, the reason for my suffering, which is by God's will for me and has a purpose---besides just being a consequence of the times in which we are living and my choice to deny myself and take up my cross daily in order to follow the Lord. And He does indeed sustain me, which I am very thankful for and frequently rejoice on account of and am amazed by. (The benefit of weakness, hardships and personal helplessness is experiencing God's power and faithfulness, as Paul wrote; and I can attest, from personal experience, that what he wrote is true.) Whether I have prayers or encouragement from others or not, I know that Jesus Himself will sustain me to the end of my course, one day at a time, and enable me to do whatever He wills in His own strength. But I would appreciate prayers from other Christians for Him to do this for me and to comfort me, because I do not have an easy or pleasant lot. My strength is Jesus; I'm not superhuman. I'd have given up and crumpled up long ago if it weren't for Him reviving me and holding me up. So that's my prayer request: That the Lord would strengthen me spiritually and comfort me in doing whatever He is pleased for me to do and to do through me, and to endure whatever I have to endure according to His will, for my own benefit and that of others. Luke 12:32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. I can completely relate to what you are saying. I have prayed with the others for you to keep up the strength to endure. Your posts, replies, rebuttals, are written so eloquently and are so powerful. No one can speak like that with so much truth unless they have the spirit of God. As soon as I read your very first post on Worthy I knew immediately you were of the small flock. I have learnt from you sister, with the spiritual reminders and wisdom you so freely share. I hope that you can learn of me and the others also because the Lord gives us all a different measure and reveals different things. Our backgrounds are all so different, and what we fight against is different, but the same enemy. Sister, be encouraged, the devil never gives up day nor night. The more powerful our message becomes, the more he will put against us. If any of us do not feel the way you do then there is something wrong in our walk. This journey is a labour of love and we often get weighed down or feel a little flat because it feels like sometimes no one is listening. What you pour out are the real jewels of the spirit. I feel so blessed to have you in my life, and if you are sad then I am sad. I will mourn and rejoice with you for in Christ we are truly one. Amen, thank you, and praise the Lord. You are in my prayers also.
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