What Now?

Faith is not blind. It is "the evident demonstration of realities though not beheld.” — Hebrews 11:1.



The sun, for example, appears to revolve around the earth— rising in the east, moving through the sky, and setting in the west. However, evidence from astronomy and mathematics reveals that the earth is not the center of the solar system. Once you become familiar with that evidence and accept it as true, you have faith that the earth revolves around the sun— despite what your eyes tell you. Your faith is not blind. On the contrary, it gives you the ability to see things as they really are, not merely as they seem to be.



As such, true faith is based on reason and evidence, not on mysteries and confusion. What evidence, then, can you use to build your faith in God? Everything you need to know about God and his purposes can be found in the instruction manual he left you - the Bible.



It's true, many maintain that the Bible is nothing more than a book of human wisdom. Some believe that it is historically inaccurate. Others claim that the Bible’s counsel is impractical or out-of-date.



However, oftentimes, those who question the reliability or usefulness of the Bible have not investigated the matter for themselves. They merely repeat what others say. However, the Bible warns: “Anyone inexperienced puts faith in every word, but the shrewd one considers his steps.” — Proverbs 14:15.



Instead of blindly accepting what others say, why not follow the example of the first-century Christians who lived in Beroea, in what is now northern Greece? They did not just accept what others told them. Rather, they had a reputation for “carefully examining the scriptures daily as to whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11) Let us briefly consider two reasons why you can have confidence that the Bible is the inspired Word of God.



Over the years, skeptics have challenged— and continue to challenge— the Bible’s accuracy regarding the names of people and places it mentions. Time and again, though, evidence has proved the skepticism to be unfounded and the Bible record to be trustworthy.



For example, at one time scholars doubted the existence of Assyrian King Sargon, mentioned at Isaiah 20:1. However, in the 1840’s, archaeologists began unearthing the palace of this king. Now, Sargon is one of the best-known Assyrian kings.



Critics questioned the existence of Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who ordered Jesus’death. (Matthew 27:1, 22-24) But in 1961 a stone bearing Pilate’s name and rank was discovered near the city of Caesarea in Israel.



Regarding the historical accuracy of the Bible, the October 25, 1999, issue of U.S.News & World Report said: “In extraordinary ways, modern archaeology has affirmed the historical core of the Old and New Testaments— corroborating key portions of the stories of Israel’s patriarchs, the Exodus, the Davidic monarchy, and the life and times of Jesus.” While faith in the Bible does not hinge on archaeological discoveries, such historical accuracy is what you would expect of a book inspired by God.



Long before the discovery of microorganisms and their role in spreading disease, the Bible recommended hygienic practices that are still relevant today. (Leviticus 11:32-40; Deuteronomy 23:12, 13) Family members who apply the Bible’s advice about how to treat one another are happier. (Ephesians 5:28– 6:4) A person who lives by Bible principles may become a more conscientious employee or a more reasonable employer. (Ephesians 4:28; 6:5-9) Applying Bible principles is beneficial for emotional health as well. (Proverbs 14:30; Ephesians 4:31, 32; Colossians 3:8-10) Such practical advice is what we would expect from our Creator.



The wisdom found in the Bible can make even an inexperienced person wise. (Psalm 19:7) In addition, once we gain confidence in the Bible, it can help us as no other book can in taking the next step toward having stronger faith.



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Well geeter39 I've read some of these comments left by other members and trusting Him is the right way to go. I have recently had some issues myself and I was really stressing about the whole ordeal. I walked over to my window and looked at the sky and told God that I didn't know what to do. I asked Him to tell me what to do and I told Him that I would do it. He said "Trust me and let it go." and I did. The stress went away and I felt better. Once I stopped focusing on the problem and started focusing on Him I started to see all that He was doing. It was amazing! The Lord took care of everything. I hope this helps you. I am praying that you trust in the Lord and that you find the path that He has chosen for you. I am praying for peace and direction for you.

You mention luck, but in fact I believe there is no such thing, because everything happens for a reason, our futures change according to the actions we take today, and so when you are faced with a choice, it is in fact your decision, which path to take, and based on your choice, this may be a good or a bad decision, however it is your choice, and yours alone.

God will respect your decision, whether it is right or wrong, that is why, when you ask God for something and he doesn't think it is good for you, it just doesn't happen, unless you really persist and in that case he may well grant your prayers, so you can discover for yourself, that it wasn't right for you.

Some are tested with lack of wealth, some are tested by immense wealth, some are tested with health problems, etc. etc..

But we must remember a poor, but good soul, has a better chance than a rich but mean one.

So make your decision and choose your path, always bearing in mind what affect it will have on you and those around you.

AllAboutLaffs, willful does not play into it at all and I seek guidance all the time.



Either direction looks both good and bad. Selfish and selfless. With potential to be both painful and perfect at the same time. Either way, I gotta commit like you say CC and do something because the inaction, while noble and easy on everyone, leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Timing, though, is everything.

Ah, more askees like me. It is comforting to know you aren't the only one. Doesn't make the decision any easire though, does it?

I think our part is to weigh up the options, think it through, consult with those it affects, seek counsel from those who have a good or better understanding, and ask Him for guidance. Then make a decision and commit it to Him. Making the decision with the facts before you, wise counsel etc may or may not give you a sense of peace. However, when you've done the work, I believe the outcome will be the right one.

Very often we want the journey to be easy, and the destination perfect. But sometimes the journey is our training ground, and the destination our crucible. It's hard, but at least we have a Companion and Comforter. X@

Thanks TH although it is not much of a story. Mainly just questions? It appears my actions, no matter which way I turn, will cause repercussions for others I can't quite see. Like a stone dropping in the water, it has no idea of the ripples or waves it creates. Maybe I think too much about the ripples and not enough about the stone or the water or, as you put it, how much fun it is to actually be IN the water! Thanks for making me think about that!!!!!1

Wise advice Trinity. Are you a Matrix fan?

I wonder what the Oracle would say?

Funny but looking back a lot of where we end is a result of chance meetings, hasty decisions, and events out of our control. Intuition can play a role in the major decisions but luck and timing as well. Sometimes, too, you have to let things soak a bit.

Well, my best advice to you is to follow your intuition. My experience has been that it is usual correct even when logic doesn't support it. And often times we really already know the answers to our own questions. Also, as wise men typically say nothing risked, nothing gained. It's better to look back and say I know then to wonder what if. It's the what if scenarios that more often than not lead to regret.

I have the same feeling,



Most of the time!



I wish I had some answers, or something close to an answer!



If you found out something, please share

Thanks. I already know. It is just hard to make the turn.

I have a feeling that when the time is right you will know which way to turn geetar. God Bless!

Good point. Thanks TP!