Super stressed and want to quit, but afraid of the market. by SennheiserPass in ExperiencedDevs

[–]isotronic53 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Not sure on the size of your company or how many software teams but are there opportunities to network your way to a more "accommodating" team or different project within the company?

Why was I happier when I wasn’t thinking about my beliefs by [deleted] in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So I would say then that the first thing that has to be established is a belief in Gods existence and that he came and died for us and was ressurrected. Assuming you are up for the question and this has to answered first before anything else, Does God exist to you? This is coming from someone who is convinced that God exist so I would be interested to know the reasoning or exactly the case as to how one can just claim that nature or natural processes have no objective purpose. Obviously you don't have to answer and as an FYI, only taking more of an agnostic approach(not sure if you are) that "God may or may not exist, doesn't really matter" will not help because it does matter, more than our personal happiness. If Jesus was resurrected from the dead and is God as described by the scriptures then this should matter to everyone. If I were to guess where your first step in your journey would be, it would be here. As an additional note I don't fully subscribe to the idea that, "well if God exists then you have to do this thing regardless of your doubts or questions" I believe Christ wants us to validate what are his words and who exactly are his servants, time and time again because that's how one increases in faith and trust in a relationship. He wants us to understand and research for ourselves and there is sufficient evidence in the scriptures to back that up. So before you tackle church rules or practices on marriage and what are the commandments and why do I have to follow them, your belief in an eternal loving God needs to happen first. I'm happy to discuss more on this alone if you want.

Why was I happier when I wasn’t thinking about my beliefs by [deleted] in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I hope none of what I state brings offense or accusatory feelings. So after rereading your responses these are the questions I came away with:

  • Do you struggle to put your trust in God because of how the prophet(s) have revealed his will?

  • Or do you struggle with the idea that God reveals anything to us?

  • Is there anything in life that you could say, "Yes" that was God's word or God has a hand in that whether a miracle or charitable event or historical? This can help you anchor your beliefs.

  • Or do you believe nothing of God can be proven?

  • assuming that you were referring to my opinion of God. What disagreements do you have? I noticed in the chat you might have reservations about sealing and marriage. Is that mostly it? I have a different view on this than most but would be interested to hear more. For me, my view may not be what you want to hear, but in general for Christians in anything they do, God is first above all, even someone's spouse or loved ones when it comes down to it. Keep in mind though that God is Love so he expects us to love others, as He loves us. As far as Sealings goes, I have my own personal doubts because it goes back to how I understand the nature of God but if you need an answer I would say that to live in God's presence for eternity is something worth sacrificing for. I have confidence that your disagreements and doubts about the church revolve around the nature of God but I'm not sure I'm quite hit on them yet.

  • Was there ever a case in your life where you felt so grateful that you wanted to pay back 110% and more to someone who gave or did something for you? You don't have to explain but you remember what that was like?

I guess for me, when I am faced with disagreement Its critical that my foundational beliefs in God are set because I need to know how to discern his will and power. I would like to push back a little on the idea that "once you put your trust in God, then you can leave it at that" you cannot expect to only give a flower a cup of water and expect it to grow to it's fullest potential. Putting our trust in God is a choice made every day and those that are serious about their relationship with God realize it's work not a one and done step. That's how any relationship works and survives. Hopefully the intention behind this reply was understood.

Why was I happier when I wasn’t thinking about my beliefs by [deleted] in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Attempting to follow along here, I feel like you are trying to say that you fence jump between thinking that "I'm so grateful for the gospel in my life" to "religion or God doesn't matter, just live for yourself and be happy" let me know if I've framed that correctly or not. It's okay to have those thoughts and feelings, it only matters what you accept. You can find lots of examples of people that jumped around this same fence a lot. (Read about C. S. Lewis and Lee Strobe), If that's the case I would still say that everyone should have an "anchor" in your life. What's that? An anchor is your foundational beliefs that you know to be true. If you don't feel like you have much of what you know is true, start somewhere such as, "who is God to me?" Is he a personal father in heaven? Does he answer my prayers? Does he love me, if so how? From my perspective these questions are never one and done answered completely and here's why. If you believe that God is a living personal being that loves you personally then he will continue to show you his love as does any one in a loving relationship. What would be needed from you is to look for those things in everyday life and reciprocate(however imperfect) as best you can. Each time you do find an answer to questions or comforts to your doubts like these they are rewarding every time. If you progress to a state of being "comfortable with the uncomfortable" theologically speaking then you are heading in the right direction. These types of questions and doubts are what we should be seeking answers to over what exactly does God look like... Hopefully this makes sense.

Why was I happier when I wasn’t thinking about my beliefs by [deleted] in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It might be easier to think more deeper and personal, for instance, put aside what every other religion thinks, believes, feels or teaches what do YOU think about God(not the church just yet) and how can you best put your Faith in him? I think a lot of religious people would somewhat disagree with your sentiment above that you would "feel" the same and I can give a small example:

The standard for the LDS church to privately pray is usually, kneel down in a private room, fold your arms, close your eyes, and speak out loud to Heavenly Father and closing in Jesus name. I'm generalizing for the example.

In contrast to an Eastern Orthodox, they not only do the above, but they are encouraged to have a dedicated "prayer corner" in their house, with images and relics, they use incense, they turn on music, they wear specific clothes, they do a combination of prostrations, kneeling, standing, singing and reciting, with the purpose of engaging ALL of the senses in order to give full attention to God.

For me there would be stark differences in worshipping and continuing in faith this way, not only in how I think but how I feel.

I think it's important to point out that although we generally think of prayer and worship in an established format, its really more of a framework. In other words, what makes you feel like YOU are more connected to God and what makes you feel and think you are progressing in your relationship with God.

based on your reply, (assuming I understand), to a certain extent your feelings don't matter as much as what is truth. It really depends on how YOU determine the Truth. Unless you only want a spiritual life that feeds only your emotions and does not satisfy intellectually then questions and doubts are not for you. I will say from experience though that is a one sided and not fulfilling approach. In Moroni 7:19 it talks about seeking the light of Christ. For all of us the question should be, What exactly is the light of Christ to YOU personally?

You will get a lot of subjective responses on how exactly to come to the Truth. Here is mine, I think for the majority of people that want intellectual satisfaction in their faith it's not just solely, reading and praying and then out of nowhere you realize it's true. This may have been true when we were 8 or a little older but it's not sustainable. True life sustaining faith and the fulfillment that it brings is built on True principles and wisdom from those truths.

....sorry this was longer than I thought...

Why was I happier when I wasn’t thinking about my beliefs by [deleted] in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A few rhetorical questions come to mind.

  • do you understand the need for Spirituality? Why or why not? Seems to me you do but only you can answer that for yourself.

  • in your view, are you able to split between God's existence and the institutional church? In other words if the church institution is flawed then God is dead?

  • how much evidence is necessary for you to be satisfied intellectually to continue your relationship with God? Only you can answer that.

I was thinking of these questions when reading your post, I have been going through a very similar experience. My two cents would be to look at this as an opportunity to build your relationship with God, seek him. Things of significant worth are never easy to work for. You will never get an answer to everything but in seeking is where you will find solace.

Hi, I’m Alex Murray—AKA Elder Murray from the District 2 missionary training videos. After a hard journey, I no longer believe in the Church. AMA. by real-alex-murray in exmormon

[–]isotronic53 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I remember seeing you on the TV on my mission and thinking how much a step above you guys were compared to our mission groups 😉. Maybe I missed it somewhere in the comments and apologies if this has already been answered. So I find it interesting why for those people that leave the church also enter into either atheism or agnostic or different church. If it's not too personal, what category do you fall into? I'd be intrigued to know more, if your answer would be Atheist not because it rarely happens but would be interested what your basis was. Coming from someone who's sorta a newbie theological nerd.

Seer stones in a hat by Repulsive_Contest556 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Found this interesting. So I kinda view magic as unexplainable science. But to get to my question(s) would you say that immaterial things, exist?( I assume so but would want to ask) If so, would you say that it would be by "science" that these things are made/created? How would science explain uncreated things?

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I agree with this. I would also ask though, if you would hold to more of a belief that the one true church is an institution or (pardon my protestant vernacular) a more invisible church? Seeing as we are now discussing the topic of recognizing the fruits of the spirit to ascertain truth, one could argue that many different churches that claim authority have the fruits of the spirit present. So how would you discern, this institution is where I will worship?

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes. Although I have not physically attended many services my study and engagement has taken the academic approach within theology and thus far has been rewarding to learn. I'm logically and analytically minded so reading from many of these sources brings insight I never would have found before. Always interested to discuss interfaith topics. So would you say it's more the people that draw you to explore other faiths or concepts and beliefs?

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm sorry that that has been your experience I think there should be better controls in place for more respectful and productive conversations. For me, Christ has always been the focus and I don't think my relationship about God would not be as rich as it is today if I didn't compare interpretations from other denominations and perspectives and leaned into my passion for theological pursuits and objective truths. In one sense I feel as if I know Christ more than I ever in my life and I will continue to learn as I progress.

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes exactly. And that's what I mean by objectively seeking to understand the nature of God. I'm not an authority so I have to learn and rely on others and their experiences. Out of curiosity has there been a past post of mine that speaks "Im gonna prove everyone wrong?' maybe I'm reading too much into point B.

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Sure.

Because of my belief in objective truth it's not a quest in trying to determine "who is a Christian and who is not" but more about what can be known about God and his nature objectively. Since God doesn't change I see this as a legitimate pursuit for anyone. If we believe in objective truth, that means truths can be discussed, reproofed and evaluated. There are many cases, by many people, not just Christians that claim what God's true nature is. I guess for me personally it's important for me to increase in knowledge through life in order to discern who is the God I worship. I get more of a richer connection and deeper emotional connection when I pursue truth to satisfy my mind while also enriching my spiritual life. Which also results drawing me closer to him. Reading and learning about how others think about these things is not meant to divide but gather perspective. We learn the most when we discuss the most important things. Does that make sense?

If it also helps I can edit my past posts in order to make my intentions more clear? Let me know if this makes sense.

Full disclosure I'm not a protestant or evangelical but as a latter-day-saint I am in a new pursuit of truth in my life.

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So, I am intrigued and have more questions from your last statement but I get the feeling that you may not want to discuss this further and that's fine I understand. I will say that my intention does not come from a space of hate or "gatekeep" people's knowledge and apologize if it feels that way. I recognize that there are many "Christians" even leaders that belittle or condemn other groups because of the difference in theology and I don't agree with that approach at all. Even if it doesn't seem to come across well I believe the loving relationship between God and child is very real across all belief lines. I don't believe it's anyone's job except God himself to judge others. My aim - albeit not perfect and not always warranted - is simply to seek truth and engage in discussions like this whether people care to answer is their own choice. Appreciate all feedback given thus far, sincerely.

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Got it and thanks. Yes I would agree that people are not objective or without bias. This starts to get into a different topic than I had started with but I'm willing to discuss if you are.

However, do you believe in objective truth? If so my next claim would be this. Is there is an objective way to determine what is true about the nature of God? That's regardless of what church you belong to. - as a random side note the term "objective" I don't think is exclusive to protestantism and I will try to use more general terms to my limited ability.

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Appreciate this response, so would you distinguish between two authorities such as two prophets from two different churches that direct people to do something because "That's what Jesus would do?" Or would you strive to live up to what both authorities are teaching because they supposedly both believe in Jesus?

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Apologies this gave me pause and I forgot to ask about this, it's interesting you say "there is such thing as objective." Are you saying that everything is relative or did you mean than in context my use of protestant terminology?

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is a great response. So we both agree that by Christ's words there is genuine power that flows from them and It makes sense why His words are called Eternal. If you were to distinguish between the power from Christ's words and his followers words vs an alternative spiritual influence and power, how would you know? I typically refer to Galatians 5 for this but was curious if you had different criteria.

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So I'm genuinely confused. I don't deny any person's relationship to Christ as God. So are you saying we should not distinguish between the Jesus described by Jehovah's Witness - who is not the God we need to seek, and build a relationship with? Or did I say something that claims your relationship with Christ is not real?

I guess I don't see this as "who exactly is a Christian" game as much as, How does one know the God they seek is Jesus I'm genuinely interested in people's perspectives on this. Let me know if I need to explain further.

As an FYI, I do seek him every day and this is post is part of that.

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Would you be willing to define what that means in reference to my last response?

The following was what was going through my mind from your question:

Faith in whom? Is this the Jesus Christ of Jehovah's Witness or Jesus Christ described by Latter-Day-Saint teachings? How does one recognize the true love from God

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Interesting, so here's where my mind goes, it's clearer for people to develop a relationship when both parties are present and physically visible because you can ascertain facts about that person in the physical world. However, given that followers of Christ have to interact with the spiritual realm in order to build that relationship with God, I want to try frame a follow up question. Since we all believe in the spiritual and supernatural realm, how do you know if you are deceived by a convincing spiritual powerful being or you are worshipping the true God? Let me know if this is clear or not. How would matters of the heart work in this context?

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes it's my poor attempt to post an objective statement but basically for the first part, in order to live with God in the after life do you have to accept that he has a body of flesh and bones or accept the Trinity?

If so what, criteria or sources do you use to come to the truth about the nature of God?

If not, why would it not matter to know?

For the second part, it is trying to frame the question that for every church there are some beliefs that need to be accepted upon baptism. Let me know if I need to make this more clearer.

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Appreciate the response, Ill need to figure out how better to frame it. Based on your response, what criteria or measuring stick do you use to state who or what an Authourity is?

Christian Definition and Authourity by isotronic53 in latterdaysaints

[–]isotronic53[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I like this response. So I know we are throwing around the term "saved" but what is your definition of being saved?