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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 6/5/2009 7:02:17 PM
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1nChrist
Posts: 6
Joined: 6/3/2009
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My Dear Friends,
The last four months has been a life changing experience, and because of this and my love for you all who struggle with this battle, I am compelled to share with you my testimony as a loving brother of Christ.
“But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, 'Why have you made me like this?'” Romans 9:20
I grew up in a church home and coming from a pastoral family, the majority of my childhood days were those of being ridiculed by abusive schoolmates. Following rejection and the nature of this lead me to neglect the state of manhood and maturity. I inherently found myself being sexually attracted to the same gender and it was this lie that the devil ingrained telling me I was "different". The desire for acceptance from males did not suffice, and to combat the situation in my own perfect world, I had subjected to viewing online pornography and discovered self-gratification at the age of 14. When I turned 15 my life was given to Christ as I was baptized, and in my dedication to live for God, I committed to serve within the ministry as a musician and sound coordinator. Reluctant to tell others about my problem, I was secretly dealing with my sinful urges for the next 10 years and in doing so, I was deprived and began to distance myself from God and those around me. Thereafter, emotional burdens escalated to a point of betrayal from those I trusted, where being taken advantage of and a severance of personal discrimination led to complete isolation among my peers. My self-awareness and maturity to connect with others became so lost that I had to fake my standards in order to be accepted by everyone, even the church itself. I hated God for being alive, however, all during this time, God was prepping me for what He was solely to do accordingly to His plan in my life.
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
In December of 2007, I came to a state of hopelessness where thoughts of suicide infiltrated my mind, and by a miraculous undertaking it was God's time that I experienced an outbreak where Jesus's love embraced me and I fell completely broken before the Lord truly admitting the need to repent of my sin- the problem was that I didn't know exactly how whereas my actions would show. Through my desperation, I would search for answers on the net and hit the forums to see how others in my situation were dealing with the problem. It was four months ago that a brother online dropped the first indictment of hope with the Door of Hope course at the website, Setting Captives Free. This was a free 60-day Bible study course being offered to those who struggled with sexual impurity, mostly pertaining to homosexuality, so I told myself what was there to lose. Now that I think of it, everything I had cherished in sinfulness I was to let go of, and as hard as it was, it is amazing what greatness the Lord is doing now to replace those desires of past. Instead of being a slave to sin, by the power of the Holy Spirit I am reforming to be a slave of righteousness. The Bible studies in the courses have really spoken in a sense of telling me what I wasn't doing when I thought otherwise, because as a Christian growing up, I didn't fully perceive how to truly walk in the Spirit. Now I understand, that through receiving sanctification by the blood of Jesus Christ on the cross, repentance in amputating all things leading to temptation, and bringing the sin into the light by telling others and being held accountable, is there a way to complete freedom which is that given by God's eternal living water. What I had once believed to be my biggest weakness and lowest estate, the Lord completely turned around and used it to fulfill His sake and glory- what an indescribable joy this is!
"And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ" Philippians 1:6
I am grateful for ministries like these which are sent heavenward by God's grace alone that I am humbly seeking the light through His word and truth, and deepest gratitude to a mentor for guiding and holding me secure in steps of accountability. The relationship with my parents has increased ten-fold since I told them my victory and I felt truly loved in such a joyous and merciful way. Keeping myself daily in God's word, I see growth in serving time with a wonderful and loving church family along with God's calling me into the worship arts ministry. Having the resources we have nowadays, there is just so much I want to do in reaching this life abundant news out to others and to the world, as this is what the Lord has commanded of us as children of God. Sure, there will still be trials and persecution to come across as there are other giants I still need to overcome, but if I remain and abide with the power of God behind me, He will be the ultimate conqueror to destroy any evil that comes in my way. It brings me contentment and peace knowing that we as His disciples are to first love and please God storing up treasures in heaven, and that my life in this world is only a temporary settlement in comparison to the eternal life I can live right here and now. I pray for hope and perseverance to all my brothers and sisters who seek the way to purity in Christ, and also for the lost and fallen generation, because here's the good news to all: no matter what circumstance you think is too hard to handle, there will never be a fix more satisfying then that, which is Jesus Christ our Father and Savior King! God will change you if there is a change in heart to accept the fact that He can. He will heal those empty wounds you have and there is a joy that is so worth it when He starts to live inside of you and you in Him. The Son's death and resurrection is the reason mankind is considered His children- can you imagine that? The all powerful creator of the universe considers you as His very son or daughter. The Father of all in heaven loves you no matter how much you fall and it is by the cross that you are reborn as a new creation and considered pure by receiving the blessing of redemption, sanctification and salvation through Jesus Christ!
"Sing to the Lord, all the earth; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day." 1 Chronicles 16:23
There is freedom from homosexuality, pornography, and self-gratification my brothers and sisters, and that is only through Jesus Christ, our Savior- Not through counseling, 12-step programs, or other man-made procedures. The goal is not to be heterosexual, but as His children we are solely to live out eternal holiness in our Creator who perfectly made us according to His plan- Amen!
Love always in Christ,
Calvin
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 6/10/2009 3:00:02 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Gentlemen,
What a testimony. I enjoyed reading it. I believe many men will be helped by these words. I myself identify with what was said. I believe the Lord will help any man who wished to be helped. The Lord is waiting for you to ask for his help. If you could do it yourself, then why would the Lord want you to ask for his help? God bless.
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 6/18/2009 6:31:32 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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I remember in the past that I felt overwhelmed by the temptations of homosexuality. I thought I would never get out of it. But the following scripture can help in such cases.
Hebrews 4:16, "So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most."
Learning that the Lord is waiting for us to come to his throne should be comforting for us when feeling overwhelmed by sin.
God bless.
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 7/11/2009 12:47:29 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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As I lived with homosexuality, I felt alone sometimes and thought God had left me. I believed that people were shunning me. I had no real proof that that was happening but just the same it was there. Here is a scripture to help in times of need.
A Prayer for Help.
From Psalm 30
From the depths of my despair I call to you,
Lord.
Hear my cry, O Lord;
listen to my call for help!
If you kept a record of our sins,
who could escape being condemned?
But you forgive us,
so that we should stand in awe of you.
I wait eagerly for the Lord's help,
and in his word I trust.
I wait for the Lord
more eagerly than watchmen wait for the
dawn--
than watchmen wait for the dawn.
Israel, trust in the Lord,
because his love is constant
and he is always willing to save.
He will save his people Israel
from all their sins.
I hope this can be of help to some of you. I know it helps me. Especially when I am feeling lonely and out of sorts. Despair is not something anyone should have to live with.
God bless you.
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 7/11/2009 2:24:30 PM
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rdvergeson
Posts: 2
Joined: 7/10/2009
Status: offline
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Sin is sin, as long as we remain chained to that sin, even after we have accepted Christ, if we continue in sin that sin is still a sin. Though we may be forgiven for our past sins, new sins will destroy our relationship with Christ. Therefore, this new sin needs reconcilation with Christ. That is to say a repentant heart, a true repentant heart that leads us back on to the path to Christ. The new man who wears a new cloak in Christ is forgiven of his sins from the point to which he asked Christ in to his life and accepted Christ as his savior. If he should wear that new cloak (Christ) over his old cloak (sin), he can not please God until he has fully and completely given up he old cloak and cast it aside. Then and only then will the new cloak shine with the glory of God.
1 John 2:1-2 "My dear children, I am writing this to you so you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, there is One Who will go between him and the Father, He is Jesus Christ, the One Who is right with God."
Romans: 8:1,4 "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus... [for those] who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit."
1 John 1:7 " If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with on another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin."
2 Cor. 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
1 John 3:6 "No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him."
There are so many scriptures I could use to show what God says about sin. Having used a few scriptures I will get to my point here. Actually it is serious of questions. "Given the fact that there are movements among denominations to ordain homosexuals or elevate them to higher leadership in the church (Bishops). I have an issue with those individuals who call themselves homosexuals serving in the church. If they are still homosexuals and by nature of the Sin, are they still participanting in the sin of homosexuality? If so, then they haven't repented, or forsaken sin, but continue in sin while they confess a life in Christ and all that pertains to the life in Christ. Which basically is leading a sinful life in Christ.
Now those churches who openly ordain men and women who openly state they are homosexuals then are they stating that we continue in our sin, believing it not a sin, but a lifestyle that is sinless? If they are stating the opposite and saying they have been reborn again in Christ free of sin, then why do they say they are homosexuals. When we excepted Christ as our Lord and savior, we become new creatures in Christ. And when we toss off the old cloak and put on the new cloak, we are reborn into a new person free of sin. However, if we as former sinners go around and titled ourselves murderers, rapists, and homosexual to name a few sins. And we use that title to preceed Reverend, or Bishop. To say we are the Murderer Reverend John Doe, or the Rapist Bishop Jane Doe are we saying that God has not forgotten our sins, because we haven't forgotten or the church hasn't forgotten it? To me called the Homosexual Bishop John Doe is like constantly reminding the world that we where Homosexual or may still be.
Christ through His heavenly Father makes it very clear that God forgives and forgets our sins when we accept Jesus Christ as our savior and Lord. I for one would not want to be called Sinner( name of Sin) Bob or addressed Sinner Bob by those who I meet on the street, or in the fellowship of Christ. After all, I am no longer a sinner, and the major part of God's forgiveness and forgetfulness is just that. Forgiven and Forgotten, not only by God but by ourselves when we throw away the Old Cloak and put on the new Cloak.
Now in the case of recent church events when they voted in a Homosexual Bishop, it would seem they voted him in because he was a homosexual person and man of the cloth who still sinned before God. This person had to be ordained in the first place, and why was his past sin not important to the church world to tell everyone he was (past/present) homosexual as to validate his Bishophood. Otherwise, if he was no longer homosexual, then he isn't now a homosexual person and shouln't have to be called a homosexual person of the cloth because he once was homosexual or a murderer, or raptist or candybar theif.
Until the Church (those who have a problem) can reconcile themselves to forget and forgive, align themselves to God's promise, then there wouldn't need to be homosexual Bishops, but Bishops who are worthy to serve God and not because of a certain past (present) sin. Present/past sin needs to be taken to the alter and left there, and when we walk away we no longer have that sin, therefore we need to forget that sin in ourselves and move on with our walk in Christ.
I applaud you walk in Christ and your testimony. It is revealing, forward and courages of you to speak out and share. We live in a world where ones sins are often to public to do good but more harm then intended. I am not saying that we never give testimony of our sins, but rather come to a stage or point in our lifes that to much detail is harmful given the nature of the world we live in. After all, God says we are born sinners and everyone knows that. No denial there. When we take our sins to the alter, it is always and should always be a private thing between God and ourselves. The fact that I am a sinner is a given, and I am of the old school where when in the fellowship of Christ (church), the pastor ask if anyone needs prayer regarding sin (past or present). That pastor will ask you to come forward and the congregation will pray you. The pastor who asks you to detail the sin does wrong, as it will invite the devil to use someone in the fellowship to do harm by that knowledge. No, a pastor should only ask that you reveal that you are a sinner and no details, just simply ask for prayer for your sins. Details can come later when in the privacy of the pastor and under the laws and rules of confession a Pastor is bond by.
Yes, testimony is a path to revealing Gods grace and mercy in our lifes. Details of our sins is the realm of Gods office at the alter. A Testimony that reflects that we are forgiven of our sins, (less harmful details), does confirms that God has forgiven and forgotten our sins. And that we left the details of our sins at the alter of God. You are no longer homosexual therefore, why refer to your life as been homosexual. Step forward as a new creature in God. Therefore you are a new creature in God. Believe in this and you will never have to refer to your past sins or be tempted by your past sins because you are reminding yourself of those past sins by the label the world would put on you. Leave your past sins at the alter of God, the world has no business knowing. If you must describe you past, you where a sinner, but under the Grace and Mercy of God, I have accepted Christ as my savior and Lord, and no longer am I a sinner. Your convictions and faith will tell the world your sincerity in God and your walk in Christ.
Amen.
Forgive me bother for such a long reply, I fear I am blessed with a conviction of my Lords life in me and will get a bit wordy.
< Message edited by rdvergeson -- 7/11/2009 2:34:40 PM >
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 7/20/2009 11:15:34 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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No problem, I get a little wordy myself sometimes.
The following, I found in my Bible, it really speaks to me, I hope it does to you!
"In Romans, sinners are exposed in all of their ugliness. Here Paul poignantly describes depravity and the deep need for a Savior. Although all who have sinned are condemned, God does not leave us to die in our brokenness. Jesus Christ is introduced as the Redeemer who satisfied God's just demand against sin. God offers justification for the sinner through Christ. Although we are lost in our sin, we can be made right through the finished work of Jesus, our Savior and Liberator.
Paul also addressed the struggle between living according to the Spirit and living according to our flesh. We are set free from sin, yet we still struggle daily with the weakness of our flesh. In chapter 8 we read some of the most uplifting and encouraging words in all of Scripture. Through the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives we can walk in victory and live with joy and confidence!"
As we read through the first chapter, we see how Paul condemns those who chose to go against nature and chose to lust after their own sex. We must remember that the Lord will deal with us when we do. Being a Christian and trying to live a life contrary to that, is dangerous. Walk in the Spirit and live according to God's ways.
God bless,
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 7/28/2009 10:04:15 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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"I've found that it helps if I remember that I am not in charge of my day...God is. And while I'm sure He wants me to use my time wisely, He is more concerned with the development of my character and the cultivation of the qualities that make me Christlike within."
Romans 5:3-5
"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
I don't know about you but I want the Lord to be in charge of my life. I really mess it up when I take control. When I feel I know what is best for me, it turns out the be the worst in me. I need help and I think you do too. Am I correct?
In Christ, Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 8/13/2009 12:42:45 AM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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There were times in the past that I felt so low I could dangle my feet on a dime. Jonah had the same feelings and see what the Lord had to say to him.
Jonah 2:2-9
NEVER ABANDONED BY THE LORD
"In my distress, O Lord, I called to you,
and you answered me.
From deep in the world of the dead
I cried for help, and you heard me.
You threw me down into the depths,
to the very bottom of the sea,
where the waters were all around me,
and all your mighty waves rolled over me.
I thought I had been banished from your presence
and would never see your holy Temple again.
The water came over me and choked me;
the sea covered me completely,
and seaweed wrapped around my head.
I went down to the very roots of the mountains,
into the land whose gates lock shut forever.
But you, O Lord my God,
brought me back from the depths alive.
When I felt my life slipping away,
then, O Lord, I prayed to you,
and in your holy Temple you heard me.
those who worship worthless idols
have abandoned their loyalty to you.
But I will sing praises to you;
I will offer you a sacrifice
and do what I have promised.
Salvation comes from the Lord!"
I learned in choir tonight that I am a worship leader in all that I do. I must be an example to others. I must sing praises to my God for all he has done for me. He deserves it! Remember that He loves us and wants to be in control. Praise him and see what difference it makes. Praise and adoration will bring you out of the pits every time.
Sin will take us further that we wanted to go, keep us longer that we wanted to stay and cost us more than we wanted to pay. Remember that the next time you want to sin with someone.
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 8/20/2009 8:14:48 AM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Good morning,
I often wondered how God reacted to me when I was tempted to sin! Well here is the answer.
James 1:12-18
GOD'S HELP IN TIMES OF TEMPTATION
Happy is the person who remains
faithful under trials, because when he
succeeds in passing such a test, he will
receive as his reward the life which God
has promised to those who love him. If a
person is tempted by such trails, he must not say,
"This temptation comes from God.
For God cannot be tempted by evil,
and he himself tempts no one. But a
person is tempted when he is drawn away and
trapped by his own evil desire. Then
his evil desire conceives and gives birth to
sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives
birth to death."
Do not be deceived, my dear brothers!
Every good gift and every perfect present
comes from heaven; it comes down from
God, the Creator of the heavenly lights,
who does not change or cause darkness
by turning. By his own will he brought us
into being through the word of truth, so
that we should have first place among all
his creatures.
Do you realize that our bodies are he temples of God. God lives in every person who professes Him as Savior and Lord. Where ever you go, what ever you do, God is right there with you. The scripture says that we are a living sacrifices Holy acceptable to God. We must act like we are saves, otherwise who would want to follow Christ? If we are going to talk the talk then we must walk the walk. We are living Bibles that people are eager to read. What page are you on?
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 8/23/2009 4:21:52 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Greetings,
Before I began talking to my associate pastor, I was very lonely. I didn't have anyone to talk to about my problem. I felt as if anyone knew me that they wouldn't like me. Or they would run away from me screaming. The 23 Psalm is really helpful. I especially like this version.
"The Lord is my shepherd;
I have everything I need.
He lets me rest in fields of green grass
and leads me to quiet pools of
fresh water.
He gives me new strength.
He guides me in the right paths,
as he has promised.
Even if I go through the deepest darkness,
I will not be afraid, Lord,
for you are with me.
Your Shepherd's rod and
staff protect me.
You prepare a banquet for me,
where all my enemies can see me;
your welcome me as an honored guest
and fill my cup to the brim.
I know that your goodness and
love will be with me all my life;
and your house will be my
home as long as I live."
God is my friend and the best one you could possible have. However I like this story.
A little girl was in her bedroom when a fierce storm came up. She was afraid of the thunder and lightening. She went to her parents room for comfort. Her dad took he back to her bed and tried to comfort her. He told her that God was watching over her and would help her to not be scared. Her answer to him was, "I know God will help me, be sometimes I need someone with skin on."
Sometimes we really need to talk to someone other than the Lord. He provides many people around us to be friends, what we must do is find them. Ask the Lord to guide you to the right person. A true friend will not reject you, they will love you for who you are.
In Christ,
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/3/2009 12:34:51 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Hey guys,
The Bible tells us that we must exercise self-control. Proverbs 25:28 tells us "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control." Many times I showed anger towards God because He wouldn't take my lack of self-control away from me. Then He showed me that it was I who needed to control myself. I am responsible for my actions. I thought God was just letting me fall into sin. It was a very hard and long lesson to learn. Now that I understand it, I do have self-control.
One thing that helps you learn self-control is having an accountability partner. Mine is my associate pastor. He asks questions that require truthful answers. Read 2 Kings 5:1-27 and see the story of Gehaze how he was caught red-handed. This is a good story of a man who at first refused to do it God's way but soon learned that there is only one way. Don't forget about the Holy Spirit and how He will help you with your problems. Trust in Him and his direction.
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/6/2009 4:18:53 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Here is part of a devotion I get in my E-mail from "Moments Together for Couples" by Dennis and Barbara Rainey.
"The devil is called "the father of lies" (John 8:44),and for good reason. He will try to lead you to believe anything that will keep you from turning to God.
One of his greatest lies, I believe, is that God will reject us when we confess our sins to Him and seek to repent. Somehow we start thinking that our sins are too terrible for Him to forgive.
The truth, of course, is tht God loves a contrite heart, welcomes the repentant sinner back and restores "the joy of Thy salvation."
Believing that God will not satisfy our needs is a lie from Satan. God promised to fulfill all our needs according to His riches and glory. Give him the chance. Don't continue to fall into sin because you can't trust the Lord to help you stay away from what you are faced with. Call upon the Holy Spirit and follow his leading and allow Him to endure the temptation. There is no excuse for falling for Satan's tricks and wiles to tear you away from God. There are to many outs for you to take. Look for them and you will see, every time.
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/7/2009 2:21:12 AM
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StephenJ
Posts: 270
Joined: 12/3/2007
Status: offline
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So what do you think about reparative therapy?
_____________________________
Rock on!
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/8/2009 9:51:08 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Hey,
I am not sure what you mean by "reparative therapy", but if I am thinking correctly, you mean therapy to help someone come away from homosexuality! Helping someone look into their life and find out when it began and how long it may take to work through all the past history of that person. If that is what you mean, I am for it. You could say that all the years I spent in my associate pastors office going over my life history to find out what I needed to get my life straitened out, it worked. The Lord has used him and many books to help me get my life on the strait and narrow road to recovery. I do have the homosexuality under control. It does not rule my life any longer, the Holy Spirit does. When I am faced with temptation, I know I can count on the Holy Spirit to give me a way out just as He promised in His word. I hope I have hit on you question through all of this, if not please explain it to me.
Thanks
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/10/2009 2:25:38 PM
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StephenJ
Posts: 270
Joined: 12/3/2007
Status: offline
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I was just wondering, because I've been looking at some of the practices employed by Ex-gay ministries, and some of them seem rather cultish. I've also been reading up on some of the people who've gone through them. Many of these people feel as if they were violated psychologically.
_____________________________
Rock on!
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/11/2009 10:17:53 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Hey,
I can understand what you are saying. I believe that when you think about your life and try to remember when you first new something was different about you, then you can begin discovering how you may have leaned toward same sex attraction. The programs you are probably referring to may not take you to this place in your life, but they are trying. As far as being violated psychologically, I don't think they do it purposely. It may seem that way but if you give them a chance you may find that they are legitimate. Many men have successively been helped out of homosexuality. I am one of them. Their are many programs out there that are generally trying to help. Give them a chance to prove themselves to you.
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/12/2009 7:40:52 PM
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StephenJ
Posts: 270
Joined: 12/3/2007
Status: offline
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Bill521
Hey,
I can understand what you are saying. I believe that when you think about your life and try to remember when you first new something was different about you, then you can begin discovering how you may have leaned toward same sex attraction. The programs you are probably referring to may not take you to this place in your life, but they are trying. As far as being violated psychologically, I don't think they do it purposely. It may seem that way but if you give them a chance you may find that they are legitimate. Many men have successively been helped out of homosexuality. I am one of them. Their are many programs out there that are generally trying to help. Give them a chance to prove themselves to you.
Bill
I'm sorry I think you misunderstand, I'm not gay myself. I wasn't planning on joining such a program.
I was just asking because recently I've been reading and watching some stuff from people who came out of certain Ex-gay ministries.
_____________________________
Rock on!
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/17/2009 9:12:49 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Hey Stephen,
No problem. I just hope that what I said can help someone.
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/17/2009 9:26:15 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
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Many times I would believe that the Lord could help me, but then when I fell, I would become depressed and start believing that God really can't help. When I felt that way, this scripture helped.
It is the story of the man and his demon possessed boy. When the man asked Jesus if he could heal his son, Jesus said "If you can", verse23, "Everything is possible for him who believes." It is that part that frees us. Everything is possible, getting out of homosexuality is possible is you only believe that the Lord can save you from it. Help my unbelief was the fathers response. Believe, believe believe. Mark 9:14-29.
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 9/24/2009 8:44:30 AM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
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I have learned that it is a good idea to be accountable to someone. Not your spouse or girlfriend or someone like that. You need a man to help you stay on track. Jesus had his twelve and they stayed accountable to each other. They encouraged each other and helped each other daily as they needed it. Dennis Rainey said "Accountability helps you in so many ways. For one thing it helps protect you-from isolation, from pride, from sin, from giving in to temptation and weakness. One of the best ways I know to protect you from those weaknesses is to let someone know about them and ask that person to keep you accountable."
It really does work, when you don't know when your accountability partner will ask you how you have been doing? And what have you been doing to help yourself stay away from sin. The best one of course is Jesus. But even He wants us to have someone else. It helps to talk so we can hear ourselves and solve many of our own problems with the Lords help of course. Trust and obey for there is no other way.
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 10/3/2009 1:15:31 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Hay Guys,
I just finished a great book by Charles Stanley called Temptation. It was very informative and most helpful. What I would like to do is tell you what he said in the last chapter. Here are the steps to recovery. There are seven of them and I will write one each time I post.
"1. Repent.
The first stage in the recovery process is repentance. Two counterfeit forms of repentance are often passed off as the real thing. One of them goes like this, "Lord, I am really sorry I got caught." The other sounds like this, "Lord, I am really sorry I sinned. I certainly hope I can do better next time." Both of these are prompted out of guilt or embarrassment, not a heartfelt sense of remorse over the fact that almighty God has been grieved. People who pray such prayers have no intention of changing. They are simply attempting to get God off their backs.
Genuine repentance involves several things. First of all, confession. Not just, "Lord, I am sorry for my mistake," but, "Lord, I have sinned against You." Confession acknowledges guilt. Second, repentance involves the recognition that the sin was against God. Notice what David said,
Against thee, Thee only, I have sinned,
And done what is evil in Thy sight.
Psalm 51:4
Now that does not mean he failed to recognize that he had sinned against Bathsheba and her husband. He was saying that he realized that his sin was primarily against God. Against the backdrop of all the grace and goodness God had showered down upon him, David's sin was primarily against God.
Repentance includes taking full responsibility for our sin. David clearly accepted full responsibility for his actions with Bathsheba. He said,
"Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,
And cleanse me from my sin.
For I know my transgressions,
And my sin is ever before me.
Psalm 51:2-3
I talk from my own experience now. I believe that as a believer the Holy Spirit warns me when I am about to yield to temptation. He warns me that temptation is before me. The warning come to me to help me look for the escape that the Lord has given to me as He promised. You may not agree with the next statement but I believe it to be true. I don't see how a Christian can be happy as a homosexual and still serve the Lord. In my own experience, while I was active in sex with men, I was absolutely miserable because the sin was against God and the Holy Spirit would not let me enjoy what I was doing. I felt remorse and great guilt for what I had just done with another man. I would feel that way until I repented of the action. I had not only sinned against God, but against my wife as well. Now that I have been free for many years, I can live holy before the Lord and live for him. My holiness only last until I sin again. Remember as Christians we leak and must ask forgiveness many times a day, but we have the Holy Spirit to comfort us and bring us back to the Lord.
It is my desire that all of you would let the Holy Spirit guide and lead you away from the sin of homosexuality and find peace in the Lord. We are not perfect but we should strive to be so.
Let the Lord guide.
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 10/13/2009 7:50:17 AM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Hey guys,
Here is the second thing that Charles Stanley had to say about forgiveness.
Accept God's Forgiveness
"Oftentimes this is difficult because we feel so guilty, especially if it is a sin we have repeatedly committed. Sometimes we feel plain stupid coming to God with it again, but that is what we must do.
Remember, when Jesus died on the cross two thousand years ago for your sin, He died for all your sins-past, present, and future. Your sin causes you embarrassment because you expect better of yourself. But God doesn't. He already knew about it. Even as you prayed time before last and promised Him you would never do it again, He already knew you would. And He had already made provision for it. So you need not be embarrassed; you need not avoid Him."
I am talking from my own experience now. I know exactly what Dr. Stanley is saying. I got so tired of repenting so much every time I failed Him. I would say here I am again Lord, I have failed you once again. I really wondered if God was going to forgive me this time, and He always did and you know that He always will. I always thought that I didn't deserve it, but I was always forgiven.
Don't let Satan tell you that God will never forgive you for what you have done. Depression will quickly follow sin when you don't take the time to repent of it. Remember David and Bathsheba, He waited to long to repent and it cost him dearly. Repent immediately and let God cleanse you so you can start fresh. I keep telling you that God loves you and doesn't want you to stay in self pity and anger over what you have done. Repent and live for the Lord.
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 10/21/2009 2:16:31 PM
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Badison
Posts: 301
Joined: 4/15/2006
From: Washington, DC
Status: offline
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quote:
ORIGINAL: StephenJ
I was just wondering, because I've been looking at some of the practices employed by Ex-gay ministries, and some of them seem rather cultish. I've also been reading up on some of the people who've gone through them. Many of these people feel as if they were violated psychologically.
There is a lot of variety in ex-gay ministries, and all of them don't hold to the same practices. While there may be some that are 'out there', the 3 or so years I spent working with a couple of them were great. A lot of loving and caring people. And a lot of support. Professional pastors and psychologists were among the board members, and there was nothing cultist about it in the least--we all had our own churches, etc.
But again, just like with churches, or any type of support group; anyone can start one so it would be best to check credentials.
< Message edited by Badison -- 10/21/2009 2:30:24 PM >
_____________________________
A fool vents all his feelings, But a wise man holds them back. -Proverbs 29:11
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 10/27/2009 9:47:27 PM
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Bill521
Posts: 107
Joined: 3/24/2008
From: Lawton, Oklahoma
Status: offline
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Hey guys,
Sorry it has been so long getting back to you. So, here is number three of what Charley Stanley has to say.
"The next stage in the recovery process is acceptance of God's discipline. Oftentimes we do not recognize the disciplining hand of God. When there are personal consequences resulting from our sin, such as an injury or a financial loss, we can usually recognize those right away. But sometimes God's discipline comes in forms that at first seem to have no relationship to what we have done. In time, however, the truth usually becomes apparent.
When we recognize that we are being disciplined, one indisputable sign that we really mean business for God is that we don't fight it. By willingly accepting His discipline, we are acknowledging our guilt and His sovereign right to exercise authority over us.
When people resist the discipline of God, it is evidence that they have yet to come to grips with their sin and with the nature of sin itself. By resisting God's discipline, they are saying, "I don't deserve this. I deserve better. What I did wasn't really so bad." Their understanding of sin and what it cost God is so deficient that it is unlikely they will do much to guard against repeating the same error again and again."
When I was being unfaithful to my wife and the Lord, I was being disciplined all the while, but I refused to give into the knowledge of it. I was telling myself that it wasn't really that bad, after all I wasn't really hurting anybody. I never thought of the fact that I was destroying the relationship I had with my wife and with God. When you can't see past your own nose, you don't see the danger either. It never occurred to me that I was putting my life and the life of my wife in danger. I never thought of VD of anything else that I could get. AIDS was something that I really didn't think about. I hate to tell you this, but there were times that I hated myself so much that I really didn't care if I got AIDS, at least that way I would die and get away from it all. Isn't it amazing how Satan can get in there and destroy your relationship with those you really love. By the grace of God and God alone, I was spared any kind of disease. Guys, think of someone else for a change and not just of your own passions and lusts. Give the Lord a chance to change you for the better. He really loves you and so do other people around you.
Love you guys,
Bill
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RE: Comming out of homosexuality - 10/31/2009 3:33:37 AM
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pjw85
Posts: 1
Joined: 10/31/2009
Status: offline
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hi men, i'm a 24 year old man, i had a wife and two young sons. I had an affair with a much older man in his 50's and my wife caught us in bed together. She left me taking our sons. she got custody through the courts and i didn't ask for contact rights, i agreed to be banned from seeing them until they are 18. They are 4 and 6 now and i've not seen them for 18 months. It hurts a lot but i know that it was my punishment from God and i deserve it so i take it like a man. I knew it was totally wrong to go with a man but i was weak i gave in to temptation. I am totally ashamed and i pray to God everyday that he will forgive me
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