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I just recently accepted God into my life, I am 22 years old. I realize that by accepting him I now find myself questioning things that in the past I had not. However I also feel more open about some of the things that in the past where and are problems for me, and I find that many of the things I am debating in my mind are ethical and moral problems now. I find myself making a decision but then before acting on it wondering would God approve and I have not really made a decision on anything instead I keep going back to would God approve. I am not sure what to do, and if this will ease with time? Any advice would be helpful. Thanks

2007-07-19 14:59:34 · 21 answers · asked by Butterfly 2 in Society & Culture Religion & Spirituality

21 answers

My friend Butterfly, I'm going to tell you that it's absolutely normal to began questioning things after accepting Jesus as your savior. When I first came to Christ myself, I went through a similiar period of questioning. I became convicted every time I said a swear word, every time I found myself on a website that wasn't really appropriate, and that little voice I once knew as my concience was replaced by the voice of the Holy Spirit who tended to speak up a great deal more often. You may even end up questioning whether or not you should be associating with your current friends anymore and be forced to make a decision about how much of what they're doing should be a part of your life as well.

As for "would God approve?" That depends entirely upon what we're talking about, and without more specific information I can only say that through studying the Bible and learning from your minister (whether through Sunday sermons, or private consultation [I recomend both]) will you come to know what is and isn't what God wants you to do. This is understandably a slow process and in the mean time I always would recomend that if you have a feeling that something you're doing, or planning to do wouldn't sit well with God that you stop or don't do whatever that may be without seeking an answer first (through prayer, bible reading, and personal consultation with your minister).

and of course if you need anything else, I'd be more than happy to help however I can. My best wishes to you and your future walk with Christ.

God Bless,
Chake-Ri Shcos

2007-07-19 15:54:12 · answer #1 · answered by Chake-Ri Shcos 2 · 0 0

It can go two ways.
One approach would be to think like so many Christians do, that God is "testing" you by giving you all these challenges. And that by "passing" these "tests" you'll be stronger in your faith as a result.
The other approach might be that you've drawn some false conclusions about what God is and what he expects. That's one to put on the back burner for a while, since you're new and a youngster to your spiritual approach.
This is a really great question for a spiritual director (Catholics sometimes can find those, if they look hard enough, so maybe other Christians have them too).
And finally, I would suggest that you read a lot of C.S. Lewis, who was also a convert and had many of the difficulties you describe.

2007-07-19 15:07:53 · answer #2 · answered by Mandaladreamer 5 · 0 0

Congratulations! This shows that you actually are thinking before you act (which so few people seem to do). If in doubt, read the Bible or look at your nearest bookstore for religious reference books, as these can be a great help when trying to figure out whether God approves of a certain action. Don't look at this as a problem; see it more as a chance to think about questionable things you may do and become a better person.

2007-07-19 16:19:39 · answer #3 · answered by Lycanthrope777 5 · 0 0

I think it is wonderful that you are wanting to be obedient to the Lord. You must realize that as you grow things that were once ok may not be any more. As we grow and mature in our relationship the father requires more obedience from us in our lives. In addition no one ever said serving Christ would be a walk in the park without challanges. You must remember your way of thinking is changing as well. However there is nothing greater than embracing the father and walking in obedience.

One thing i just thought of is the lyrics to a song that I think will help you.
It is done by the Crabb Family and it is so true..the chorus goes

He never promised that the road would be easy, that the hill would not be hard to climb, he never promised our victories without fighting but he said help would always come in time. Just remember when you'r standing in the valley of decision and the advasary says give in, just hold on our lord will show up and he will take you through the fire again.

2007-07-19 15:05:46 · answer #4 · answered by Becca 2 · 0 0

Congratulations on your decision! I believe that God wants us to be as close to Christ as possible. It is great that you are trying so hard to be pleasing to God, but the most important thing (in my opinion), is your personal relationship with God. Talk to him often, treat him as your closest friend and confident. God understands that we are not perfect, and he loves us anyway. No man on earth has ever been perfect except Christ.
Sometimes in life, when it comes to morals, we just have to realize that we don't HAVE to have an opinion on EVERYTHING. We won't always be right about everything, and we don't have to understand everything, because God meant for the most important part of our lives to be on the other side of the grave, in Heaven. Once we realize these things, it will all ease with time. Just try to relax, and give thanks to God, and trust that he will lead you to make the best decisions in life. The first decision is, to accept him. And you're on your way! Prayers to you, good luck!

2007-07-19 15:07:16 · answer #5 · answered by SouthernBelle 3 · 0 0

What you are experiencing is common. You don't need to be alarmed. Since your new to the faith you still have to learn and grow in it. After time and prayer you'll begin to see your overall view and outlook change into that of Christ's. It's a lifelong process. It just takes plenty of time.

You're going to fail and sometimes you'll fall hard. Never beat yourself up over it. That's exactly what Satan wants you to do. This is God's way of molding you into His image. A quote I like says, "How do you know how victory feels unless you've felt defeat?" You pick yourself up and try harder the next time.

Constant prayer is essential as well. Always pray for wisdom to do the right thing. It most likely won't happen overnight but you'll see dramatic changes within you in the next few years to come if you stick with it. Jesus never said following Him is easy.

Peace be to you!

2007-07-19 15:06:43 · answer #6 · answered by stpolycarp77 6 · 0 0

life is all about a variety of choices. With God as your guide - you trust in the Lord with your descisions. There can be a lot of things that come up - like for instance, I enjoy wine. I love the study, the drinking, etc. But, even though the first miracle Jesus performed was turning water into wine - I have to be careful, I dont want to appear like 'one of the world'. the point is - w/ God as your barometer - you have a reason for living. God gives you peace and joy. Life is not easy - but you are chosen and have purpose!

2007-07-19 15:31:54 · answer #7 · answered by eaw 1 · 0 0

I never go as far as superstition but base my ethical decisions on real reason and logic ;based on whether
the idea supports life or goes against it . the idea of pleasing
a supreme being can vary from supporting slavery to other issues like war crimes in his name . Use your head .
If there is a such thing than you should for all things considered be covered if there isn't than you will have lead a better life on your own volition.

2007-07-19 15:06:50 · answer #8 · answered by dogpatch USA 7 · 0 0

Yes, yes and more yes!!!

When you become a child of God, you will start learning about God and what he wants from us on a day to day and minute to minute basis.

The more we read and understand what God wants from us, the more we are understanding of the fact that we were really living in the world and have to get further and further away from it (spiritually, not physically).

When you find yourself at odds with what you should do, and what you want to do, generally go with the should do. Always ask God in prayer about it, read his word, its how he communicates with us.
There is nothing wrong with praying and reading Gods word at the same time or in tandem. ITs a great one two punch for our own understanding of troubles and turmoils that we take to God for comfort and relief and for understanding of what he is waiting for us to learn and understand.

2007-07-19 15:08:13 · answer #9 · answered by cindy 6 · 0 0

What morality do you believe in?
Realism or Mysticism?
My God is a DJ. Because the world is magical and moral enough for me already.

2007-07-19 15:06:37 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0 0

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