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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 5 of 5. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by WorryGirl on February 26, 2003, at 17:48:58
Do any of you christians out there feel that every day is often an emotional struggle? If we are supposed to be happy because of our faith in Jesus (or whatever God/supreme being you choose to believe in), why do I so often feel sad and isolated? If I am to share my love with others, shouldn't I radiate happiness? Instead, it's all I can do to leave my house and face people in general. I have entirely too many rejection issues. I guess I'll just keep on praying and maybe one day I'll get it right.
Posted by rayww on February 26, 2003, at 23:51:48
In reply to Happier or suffer more as christians?, posted by WorryGirl on February 26, 2003, at 17:48:58
People of all beliefs struggle with these issues. When I have a question, if I start writing, I'll usually end up writing myself an answer, just as you did.
Nevertheless, I have found that in the life of a Christian there are preparation times and trial times. Part of being a true Christian involves getting to know Jesus Christ and the emotions he felt/feels. When I think of it that way it gives me strength.
When I feel betrayed and come unto Christ I feel empathy. When I am rejected and come unto Christ I feel forgiveness. When I am sad because of the way others live, and come unto Christ, I am filled with hope. When I have physical pain it helps me understand the pain He felt. When I understand his pain and his joy I feel closer to Him because I know Him better. Embrace your emotions.
Posted by WorryGirl on February 27, 2003, at 8:58:23
In reply to Re: Happier or suffer more as christians?, posted by rayww on February 26, 2003, at 23:51:48
Thanks for your words. I have been wondering what my purpose is and wondering how I can even accomplish it if I am so intimidated by others. Jesus could do it, but I am obviously much weaker. I don't want to waste all of this time in fear when I could be helping others.
Posted by rayww on February 27, 2003, at 10:33:27
In reply to Re: Happier or suffer more as christians? » rayww, posted by WorryGirl on February 27, 2003, at 8:58:23
I think it is good that you are wondering what your purpose is. As long as you are wondering, you are looking toward it. As long as you are looking toward your purpose and potential, and toward God, you are on the path that will get you there. There is purpose in every step along the way. Because of what you are going through, you will have more understanding and empathy and more capacity to help others. Embrace your emotions.
http://scriptures.lds.org/query?words=Matthew+11%3A28-30&search.x=34&search.y=10
Posted by jturner795 on May 16, 2003, at 15:24:45
In reply to Happier or suffer more as christians?, posted by WorryGirl on February 26, 2003, at 17:48:58
I just wanted to add that I grew up in a very fundamentalist home (my father was a preacher, I know laugh it up) I was beaten over the head with the idea that I was walking a very thin tight-rope over hell fire itself and that any word action or deed I did, not pleasing to God could potentially send me careening into eternal damnation. These tools of guilt, and fear are how most religions keep control of their followers. After switching to anthropology as a major in college I was exposed to many new ideas from all over the world. Including many I find appealing from eastern philosophy. One of the most profound was the concept of one of the teachings of the Buddah which simply states: You do not have to act, behave, rely on anything or anyone other than yourself. Everything you need to live a happy fulfilling life God has already given you. After many years of personal research and self-discovery you owe it to yourself to step back from what you have been "taught" and start your own path of self-actualization. It is scary at first "working without a net" so-to-speak but I believe that is why "God" gave us Ego and a sense of self. So that we would seek a personal relationship with him on our own and not be dutified to follow blindly. Good luck to you.
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