I wish I had more of the Holy Spirit of God.

[Suzana]

The best advice I received during my own trial was from one of our pastors -- he came to our house, could tell we were sort of feeling sorry for ourselves, and didn't just cry with us. Unlike Job's friends, he didn't tell us it was our fault, but did tell us that we had a responsibility to be used by God in the circumstance and that God wanted our response, itself, to be a shining example of our faith in Him. So, that completely changed our perspective and from the outset recognized that whatever happened, it was beyond what God had in store even to test "us." We who want to praise God in the midst of our suffering tend still to think our trials are only for our own benefit, but we may be the tools (like Job) God is using to demonstrate His power to others (perhaps including Satan).

just what I was beginning to suspect - it's not all about me...

[Michelle]

The best advice I received during my own trial was from one of our pastors -- he came to our house, could tell we were sort of feeling sorry for ourselves, and didn't just cry with us. Unlike Job's friends, he didn't tell us it was our fault, but did tell us that we had a responsibility to be used by God in the circumstance and that God wanted our response, itself, to be a shining example of our faith in Him. So, that completely changed our perspective and from the outset recognized that whatever happened, it was beyond what God had in store even to test "us." We who want to praise God in the midst of our suffering tend still to think our trials are only for our own benefit, but we may be the tools (like Job) God is using to demonstrate His power to others (perhaps including Satan).

just what I was beginning to suspect - it's not all about me...

Oh yeah. I keep forgetting that. Thanks!

[mattrose]

If it weren't for James 5:11 I would be pretty open to interpreting "Job" as a theological parable of sorts (not an actual historical account). Certainly the point of "Job" being in the canon of the Old Testament has little to do with whether he was an actual guy or not. The message of the book is theological, dealing specifically with the problem of pain. I love the book of Job.

As for spiritual dry spells, I think a lot of it is personality based. Some people are more emotional by nature and so their lives, even their spiritual lives, seem more like a roller coaster. I, on the other hand, have been called 'robotic' from time to time. This certainly couldn't have been a reference to my physical strength or super intelligence. It was in reference to my lack of emotion. I just am not a very emotional guy. I don't seem to experience a roller coaster type of faith. I don't feel like I have big dry spells, nor do I feel like I experience waterfalls of faith.

I think people like me often envy those who have 'spiritual high' experiences. And emotional people, when they are down in the dumps, often envy those who seems so steady and consistent. Surely we need to encourage one another in our diversity.

Without getting nosy, though, I'd say this: If you're dealing with a dry time, that's one thing (described above). But if the issue is sinful behaviors, that's another thing. I believe sins are choices. You can stop. Certainly you need to ask for the Spirit, but there's something to be said for flat out obedience too.

[brody196]

Thanks guys and girls for all of your responses in my "I wish I had more of the HS thread".. All of you have given some very good advice and wisdom. The reason I am starting another thread is because I am taking the conversation in a very different direction, and I am eager to hear/read your thoughts on what I am about to share.

I feel as if I should share a little more background on what I am talking about. Please know that before I tell my personal struggle, that I understand if you do not understand what I am about to say.

For about 11 or so years I have struggled with a very strange issue. I have a phobia or problem leaving my town. When I attempt to leave, I get a very sick feeling, almost like a panic attack. This is very inconvenient considering the small size of the town in which I live. I have had breakthroughs here and there, but I lose the majority of the time. I was not there for either of my children' births(they were born 30 miles from my town), and I have missed many good opportunities because of this rare and strange condition.

I was very fortunate to be blessed with an understanding and loving wife, who has never got to experience going on vacations with her husband, out to eat at nice restaurants, ETC... My little girl is in tee ball now, and I shudder to think that I am going to miss her first game because I can't travel just nine miles to watch her game. I have also been in some serious pain due to dental problems that have developed in the last year or so, but as you probably have guessed, the nearest dentist is 30 miles from my town.

My attitude is very positive about all of this, God has really been there for me, and I can't really complain one bit. I glorify Christ in this matter, and will never give up. But I do get weary sometimes, and I am sure that this problem has some kinda purpose. Though I have no clue what that purpose is.


On a final note, I have been to several Doctors and such, but there only cure comes in the form of very addictive mind altering drugs. I absolutely refuse to take anything that turns me into a walking corpse. I trust that God can heal me.

What do you think?

[selah]

darinhouston,

I am sorry for being unclear. I meant that Christians recognize God's sovereignty and worship Him in every situation, and then He keeps His promise to guard our hearts and minds.

Do you understand now? Would you let me know because if you still think what you wrote, then I want to help you understand.

Thank you,
selah

[selah]

I went through all of the posts on this thread and see that Brody mentioned a very personal and serious subject, showing trust in the forum readers.

Brody, I will pray for you! I will search for your next thread and read it...and I commend for your bravery online! The Lord be with you! Matt. 8:26; Luke 8:24.