|
|
|
|
Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Christians?
View related threads:
(in this forum
| in all forums)
|
Logged in as: Guest
|
|
Users viewing this topic:
none
|
|
Login  | |
|
Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Christi... - 5/28/2008 2:43:03 PM
|
|
|
Knolt
Posts: 169
Joined: 2/13/2007
Status: offline
|
Do you think Christians, at least here in America, don't fare any better in trials and afflictions any better than anybody else? would ou agree with that? why or why not? Please share some examples if you don't mind.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/28/2008 4:17:47 PM
|
|
|
jn1010lf
Posts: 244
Joined: 4/20/2005
Status: offline
|
Hello Knolt
Have you ever been to the very end of your rope and called out to God in utter desperation? You will never answer that question if you've never gotten to that point. As times get worse, more people are finding it necessary to call out to God.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/28/2008 4:36:22 PM
|
|
|
LCannon
Posts: 1231
Joined: 2/22/2007
From: Lebanon, OR
Status: offline
|
Since(roughly)general health is half lifestyle, half heritage(genes)and the less 'high risk' involvement the more quality of life. Probably the more family/ community/church, etc. intimacy one has and feels regardless of health issues, though important, counts less then longevity. It's pretty hard to quantify the effect one's faith(even Christianity)but the quality of personal faith/maturity can be measured.
_____________________________
"I will behold Thy face for I shall be satisfied when I awake to Thy likeness."
(Psalm 17:15)
"To see God and to be like Him; what more can I desire? I believe it and I expect it."
(CH Spurgeon)
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/28/2008 7:36:50 PM
|
|
|
Liveloved
Posts: 1620
Joined: 1/22/2008
Status: offline
|
quote:
don't fare any better in trials and afflictions
I'm not sure what you are asking. What do you mean by 'faring better'? Are they more apt to survive an illness? Or do they deal with trials and afflictions better than unbelievers?
Anyway, I'm confused. Can you help? 
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/28/2008 8:50:42 PM
|
|
|
deliveredarling
Posts: 1899
Status: offline
|
Are you asking about a comparison between American Christians vs Christians in other countries based on their coping skills or their persecution?
Christians here in America face very little persecution compared to elsewhere so in that sense we should fare better. Or are you asking if we (Americans) handle crisis and tragedies better or worse than others? If that's the case, it really doesn't matter where a Christian comes from, it totally depends on the depth of their faith.
I personally feel like American Christians would have a very difficult time, if we had to face the persecution like some of a missionary counter parts, right here in the US. Our churches have not fully equipped us for it, nor do they hold us accountable for learning truth. So many prefer the feel good doctrines because it is easy and without responsibility. True persecution here in the states would open many, many eyes. That path would seem really narrow and the cost much too high for many of "us".
_____________________________
"Now no one after lighting a lamp covers it over with a container, or puts it under a bed: but he puts it on a lampstand, in order that those who come in may see the light."
Luke 8:16
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/29/2008 12:48:42 PM
|
|
|
Knolt
Posts: 169
Joined: 2/13/2007
Status: offline
|
I'm not necessarily talking about persecution. I'm talking about trials and afflictions in general. Do you think most Christians are just as likely as anyone else to get angry, complain, have a bad attitude, etc. in trying times?
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/29/2008 1:10:20 PM
|
|
|
LCannon
Posts: 1231
Joined: 2/22/2007
From: Lebanon, OR
Status: offline
|
Well, I try to avoid 'angry, complain, have a bad attitude, etc. in trying times' folks, Christian or not. I can cry with those hurting and rejoice in one's victories but I have trouble empathizing with whiners.
< Message edited by LCannon -- 5/29/2008 1:33:10 PM >
_____________________________
"I will behold Thy face for I shall be satisfied when I awake to Thy likeness."
(Psalm 17:15)
"To see God and to be like Him; what more can I desire? I believe it and I expect it."
(CH Spurgeon)
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/29/2008 1:17:17 PM
|
|
|
deliveredarling
Posts: 1899
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: Knolt
quote:
I'm not necessarily talking about persecution. I'm talking about trials and afflictions in general. Do you think most Christians are just as likely as anyone else to get angry, complain, have a bad attitude, etc. in trying times?
Of course, we are human. it's how we handle those things that makes us different. A non-Christian doesn't have God to run to. Do we always, in every situation do this, no. However, I believe that the closer we walk with Him, the less likely we are to act like us.
_____________________________
"Now no one after lighting a lamp covers it over with a container, or puts it under a bed: but he puts it on a lampstand, in order that those who come in may see the light."
Luke 8:16
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/29/2008 2:40:18 PM
|
|
|
rcjames
Posts: 5250
Joined: 7/15/2005
From: Oklahoma
Status: offline
|
Well the promise is that throught Christ Jesus we can do (handle) all things.
That passage
Php 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
is best read in context with the prior verse;
(Php 4:12) I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
(Php 4:13) I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
That promise from God is for Believers, so yes true Believers far much better than non-believers during trials, temptations, and yes, even good times.
Thanks
RC
_____________________________
Just a country Preacher's humble opinion
Read the first chapter of my latest book here;
http://www.deliveranceofsara.com
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/29/2008 2:52:42 PM
|
|
|
Liveloved
Posts: 1620
Joined: 1/22/2008
Status: offline
|
quote:
Do you think most Christians are just as likely as anyone else to get angry, complain, have a bad attitude, etc. in trying times?
I guess another question you could ask is "do you think most Christians are babes?" And my answer would be yes.
Spiritual maturity requires an ongoing desire to know the Lord and in the knowing, be known by Him and be conformed to His image. And that leads to another question "is growing up for a Christian optional?" I won't answer because that's a totally different subject.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/29/2008 8:05:03 PM
|
|
|
1love1God1way
Posts: 2188
Joined: 5/16/2005
Status: offline
|
Sometimes I think Christians do worse. The reason I think that is because sometimes we like to think of God as our magic genie, that when things stop going our way, we can just ask him, and he will automatically grant our wish and make our lives peachy.
And of course, when that fails. . . we pout.
_____________________________
love.ben
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/29/2008 9:45:27 PM
|
|
|
SonInMe1
Posts: 3526
Joined: 4/16/2005
From: my mom by God
Status: offline
|
quote:
so yes true Believers far much better than non-believers during trials, temptations, and yes, even good times.
...or they earn acadamy awards for acting.
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/29/2008 11:16:06 PM
|
|
|
BibleL7
Posts: 493
Joined: 2/1/2008
Status: offline
|
The general outcome of a trial or tribulation may be the same for Christian and non-Christian yet for the Christian we have the Lord to help us through the trials and tribulations to help us be better built up and able to help others who may go through the same. The outcome may not be as good for us yet the lessons we gain build character in us when relying on the Lord to help us through them, then we can also tell others that the Lord will be with them and let them be encouraged that they will also see growth as the ends and not necessarily look at the situation as being hard as looking at it as growth potential.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/30/2008 8:07:52 AM
|
|
|
SonInMe1
Posts: 3526
Joined: 4/16/2005
From: my mom by God
Status: offline
|
I think we should act better in tribulations. Its just not true all the time. I ain't sanctified completely...yet. Got some work to do. I think many christians...if not most...are in reality, closer to my position than to the perfect always happy christian.
Sometimes life...sucks....and its not easy getting through it and I also think that is a good thing. Growth usually doesn't happen without some pain and if we deny our pain, I think we deny the growth God wants for us.
I know...the teaching...about always being happy and all things are possible in Christ Jesus and I love having confidence in Christ and we all should...its just not reality.
I would rather be real than to hide my faults behind christianese and a fake smile.
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/30/2008 3:38:27 PM
|
|
|
Knolt
Posts: 169
Joined: 2/13/2007
Status: offline
|
I'm known by some Christians use a few choice words when I talk about my current afffliction(s). I have a tendency to get so angry sometimes in my trials and afflictions I can't help it. I've also been known to pray like this to God, "God I know Your Word says to be thankful for all your trials and tribulations," I would then yell up to heaven, "Well I"m not thankful for this at all!! THIS SUCKS! WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE THIS WAY!!?"
Funny though, years ago i would have thought that prayer to have been totally sacriligious.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/30/2008 3:57:14 PM
|
|
|
terryjohn
Posts: 450
Joined: 3/23/2007
Status: offline
|
It depends by what you mean fare better. If you mean survive better in this world, then perhaps not, for the truth and faith will get us killed and our unwillingness to submit to idols and our willingness to die for our fellow man cuts short our lives somewhat, whereas, if we were unbelivers we may well lie, cheat and steal and even sleep with the devil to save our worhtless hides in this life.
Then again if you mean fare better at the judgment seat of Christ, then death really is gain.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/30/2008 4:07:53 PM
|
|
|
Knolt
Posts: 169
Joined: 2/13/2007
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: 1love1God1way
Sometimes I think Christians do worse. The reason I think that is because sometimes we like to think of God as our magic genie, that when things stop going our way, we can just ask him, and he will automatically grant our wish and make our lives peachy.
And of course, when that fails. . . we pout.
Do you think people try to kiss up to God in times of afflictions to try to get God to make life better for them?
< Message edited by Knolt -- 5/30/2008 4:13:58 PM >
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/30/2008 8:45:10 PM
|
|
|
SonInMe1
Posts: 3526
Joined: 4/16/2005
From: my mom by God
Status: offline
|
I think people act differently in church than they do in public.
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/31/2008 5:25:30 PM
|
|
|
Knolt
Posts: 169
Joined: 2/13/2007
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: SonInMe1
I think people act differently in church than they do in public.
I think so too. there's pressure upon you to wear a mask and act happy and like a goody two shoes. church for the most part isn't as stressful as out in the world. (which is a good thing) The stress of life that we encounter out in the world, i.e. financial problems, having a bad day at work, or even just someone cutting you off in traffic, can cause a good church going person to act in ways totally unbecoming of a Christian.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 5/31/2008 10:35:44 PM
|
|
|
Carleejoan
Posts: 968
Joined: 9/1/2007
From: Canada
Status: offline
|
Without my church family, believing Christian family I don't know where we'd be. Our church prayed for us, appeared there for us in the different hospital rooms my husband had to be in. They held us up when we couldn't pray for ourselves. Yes Christians fare better because we have this instant POWERFUL support system that are there in good times and when the bad times do come we have the power of their prayer and encouragement! Yes we do fare better! I can say that as a Christian that's been walking with the Lord for close to 30 years now. We've been through our tough times including my husband's cancer and subsequent entrance to heaven last January leaving me and my 11 year old daughter without our daddy and husband. sometimes it's "felt" like we're alone but feelings are deceitful and we've the love of our church family unbelievabley wonderful!!! Thank you Lord.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 6/1/2008 1:55:18 AM
|
|
|
1love1God1way
Posts: 2188
Joined: 5/16/2005
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: Knolt
quote:
ORIGINAL: 1love1God1way
Sometimes I think Christians do worse. The reason I think that is because sometimes we like to think of God as our magic genie, that when things stop going our way, we can just ask him, and he will automatically grant our wish and make our lives peachy.
And of course, when that fails. . . we pout.
Do you think people try to kiss up to God in times of afflictions to try to get God to make life better for them?
all the time.
_____________________________
love.ben
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 6/1/2008 2:33:00 AM
|
|
|
Little_1
Posts: 1230
Status: offline
|
From a Christian point of view - I think the response to the original question depends on how much we allow God into our situation (i.e. are we willing to surrender to God). From a non Christian point of view - I know I would have gone to bits this past week if I was not looking unto God and if that means I am a weakling in the eyes of the world then I happily accept this. However, it does not alter the fact that with God I am no weakling for I have found that when I am weak - then GOD IS STRONG. Hallelujah.
Christians can look for what God is wanting to teaching them in their trials and learn to depend on God's strength or they can give up in their own strength and become disillusioned! The choice is ours.
I know from personal experience that the Lord gives grace in times of need and that His grace is sufficient to uphold us in our trials and I'm sure many, many Christians echo what I am I saying. I choose to believe in God in our situation - God's Word says that "those who look to Him [God] will not be put to shame." I choose to believe this and God has not let us down. [Thank You Lord].
Trials very definately determine in each individual's life what we really believe about God and how much we know Him in relationship.
MY HUBBY AND I HAVE PROVED GOD'S SUFFICIENT GRACE OVER AND OVER DURING THE PAST WEEK IN ONE OF THE MOST DIFFICULT SITUATIONS OF OUR LIVES AND I WANT TO THANK GOD FOR HIS STRENGTH AND GRACE. God does not give His children any more than we can cope with and makes ways of escape (relief) when the trials become wearisome. We have experienced this time and again this past week.
We are looking to God to guide us in what He wants to teach us through our trials. We are leaning on Him very much and His grace IS sufficient. "A bruised reed He will not break and a smoking flax He will not quench." This has been a verse we have each lived out this past week.
I hope one day to be able to tell our story in a way that will bring glory to God. God's Word is truth. He is our hope. He is faithful. This comes from someone in a 'storm' at the moment but we are looking unto God because we could not go through what we are without Him (and very few people could - one person has already been signed off their work as a result this week and they have but a minor role in comparison. They are not Christian but they are considered mentally strong). I know God has a purpose for our suffering. God Word gives us hope. God is our hope. Thank You God - You are faithful.
< Message edited by Little_1 -- 6/1/2008 3:13:14 AM >
_____________________________
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." ROMANS 12:12
Testimony
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 6/1/2008 5:08:34 AM
|
|
|
Carleejoan
Posts: 968
Joined: 9/1/2007
From: Canada
Status: offline
|
I disagree with 1love1God1way. Unless you've been through some really tough things in your life you don't understand what people are going through plain and simple. To judge as you just have is cold and heartless.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 6/1/2008 7:30:06 AM
|
|
|
scottmcc1
Posts: 74
Joined: 4/11/2008
Status: offline
|
Knolt said; "Do you think Christians, at least here in America, don't fare any better in trials and afflictions any better than anybody else? would ou agree with that? why or why not? Please share some examples if you don't mind."
__________________________________
By faring better you mean getting well when sick? Get money when poor?
My view is that most Christians are not mature and will act and respond to the problems of life the same as non-Christians. Mature Christians will fight for the promise God has given them and will come to a place of peace in the trial or overcome the trial by the power of the Holy Spirit.
__________________________________
Knolt said; "I'm not necessarily talking about persecution. I'm talking about trials and afflictions in general. Do you think most Christians are just as likely as anyone else to get angry, complain, have a bad attitude, etc. in trying times?"
__________________________________
This is what I am working on in my life. I remember as a kid the Sunday school teacher saying that he had no idea what was meant by James 1:2-4 Rejoicing in trials.
The basis for the Christian life is not to have a good time but to be a light in the world and love God and others. We don't come to this conclusion by living life on a silver platter. So I think God uses problems to get us to become more mature in our Christian walk.
We will not come to maturity by complaining. 1 Cor 10. We come to maturity by worshiping God and rejoicing with God no matter what life throws at us. James 1:2-5
__________________________________
rcjames said: "(Php 4:12) I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
(Php 4:13) I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
That promise from God is for Believers, so yes true Believers far much better than non-believers during trials, temptations, and yes, even good times. "
__________________________________
For a long time I wondered what the difference was between - I can do all things because Christ strengthens me and I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.
The faith that Jesus was working in the situation and giving it to Him to work is the difference for me. Many overlook the verses before 4:13 which is 4:6,7 Be anxious for nothing but by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And God's peace will come.
We are to pray till peace comes. If it doesn't come keep praying. Who teaches this concept? Who talks about or teaches praying all night over a problem? I got on this forum today to look for a topic on prayer strategeies. Are there any here? Are we just intellectual Christians with no real substance? How can we have substance to our Christian life without prayer?
__________________________________
1love1God1way said: "Sometimes I think Christians do worse. The reason I think that is because sometimes we like to think of God as our magic genie, that when things stop going our way, we can just ask him, and he will automatically grant our wish and make our lives peachy.
And of course, when that fails. . . we pout. "
__________________________________
That has been my life many times in the past. But now I want to take Phil 4:6,7 lliterlly and pray over a problem till I have an answer. The Christian life is not a life of understanding so much as it is a life of prayer and faith with love.
__________________________________
SonInMe1 said: " I know...the teaching...about always being happy and all things are possible in Christ Jesus and I love having confidence in Christ and we all should...its just not reality.
I would rather be real than to hide my faults behind christianese and a fake smile. "
__________________________________
We can be real and suffer and be victorious all at the same time. The difference is not our problem but our life. Do we look to Jesus or to ourself? Rom 8:6 the mind set on the flesh is death but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.
__________________________________
Knolt said: "I'm known by some Christians use a few choice words when I talk about my current affliction(s). I have a tendency to get so angry sometimes in my trials and afflictions I can't help it. I've also been known to pray like this to God, "God I know Your Word says to be thankful for all your trials and tribulations," I would then yell up to heaven, "Well I"m not thankful for this at all!! THIS SUCKS! WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE THIS WAY!!?"
Funny though, years ago i would have thought that prayer to have been totally sacriligious."
__________________________________
Is our goal in life to have a good time to have personal peace and affluence? Or is our goal to follow Jesus? If we choose to follow Jesus we will have tribulation that others may not have because it is promised to those of faith. Are we willing to roll up our sleaves and go to work or do we want to kick back and have a good time?
Join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God.
No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life that he may please the one who has enlisted him as a soldier. 2 Timothy 1:8; 2:3,4
How we respond to trials will depend on our purpose and outlook in life. Failure is a test showing our need to seek God.
PS I really do want to find people that discuss prayer here.
_____________________________
(My Bible study web page)
http://www.freewebs.com/wftr/index.htm
(comments on nature)
http://www.verde33.blogspot.com
Thoughts on my Christan walk
http://www.verde34.blogspot.com
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Do Christians fare no better in trials than non-Chr... - 6/1/2008 9:47:20 AM
|
|
|
LoyalGypsy
Posts: 1902
Joined: 4/12/2005
Status: online
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: Knolt
I'm known by some Christians use a few choice words when I talk about my current affliction(s). I have a tendency to get so angry sometimes in my trials and afflictions I can't help it. I've also been known to pray like this to God, "God I know Your Word says to be thankful for all your trials and tribulations," I would then yell up to heaven, "Well I’m not thankful for this at all!! THIS SUCKS! WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE THIS WAY!!?"
Funny though, years ago i would have thought that prayer to have been totally sacrilegious.
Greetings,
Just recently I had the same conversation as I came up against the world system, so this is a natural manifestation in the testimony I will give…not a Spiritual one….
Let me explain in principal what I was allowed to glean
I remembered that is written that all things have become new, therefore many of those past afflictions that Satan had control in affairs of the governing authorities over me before I saved, haven’t come into its season, (fulfillment) which is written in verse 18 below (and quite frankly there is nothing we can do until it does)
In this particular case it is concerning my application for unemployment comp and the Lord saw to it that I had just enough $$ to qualify, in the amount $12.00, because the State rigged an amount that came up short monetarily
I presented this correction and all hell broke loose within the system, so when these ugly situations came up again and again, as in the past where I had no victory….I had no victory because I never rebuked it, simple because in the past the law was not fulfilled in my life in principal and Satan kept getting the victory.
…..This was the last time, because I knew it was the Lord who allowed me to find that one pay stub that made me eligible by $12.00….
So it is up to us to pay attention to stuff like that.
Needless to say when I did they sought every which way to find a way to keep me form getting my compensation.
…..But from the very beginning I knew who I was up against, so by FAITH I turned it over to the Lord and kept the mindset that they had absolutely nothing to produce that would keep me from recei | | | |
Forum Tools
Printable Version
