| Author | Message | ||
| Honestwitness Registered user Username: Honestwitness Post Number: 12 Registered: 7-2005 |
I just officially left the SDA church last week, although I've been leaving it in my mind for 15 out of the 16 years I was in it. The inner turmoil of finally making this decision is like being in a choppy, churning sea, figuratively speaking. I know this may sound strange, but here's how the Holy Spirit communicates with me sometimes. I was turning my inner spirit to Him, like a satellite dish, seeking His guidance on which church to go to. The TV was on the Weather Channel in the other room, and I heard someone say a word that sounded like "Thessalonians," only I know it wasn't that word. But my spirit immediately perked up and I thought, "Maybe the Lord is about to tell me something." Then I thought, "I just need to listen to the next words that are said that have any numbers in them, and I'll know which chapter and verse to go to for my answer. The next numbers I heard were 1 and 15. I knew there may not be a verse 15 in Thessalonians, so I thought, "Maybe He's saying 1 Thessalonians 1:5." When I opened my Bible, I read that verse, which says, "For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake." I was blown away! I knew immediately He was telling me what criteria I am to look for in a church. One that proclaims the Gospel not only in word, but in power, in the Holy Spirit and with much assurance. And the people in the church must be leading godly lives, as were the apostles. I'm just now starting on my research project, but every church I evaluate will be measured by these criteria. Thanks to all of you for your very powerful prayers, and thanks to the Holy Spirit for being concerned about me and accessible to me. | ||
| Flyinglady Registered user Username: Flyinglady Post Number: 2023 Registered: 3-2004  |
Honestwitness, Congratulations!!! God has led you through all the turmoil and kept you safe in His awesome arms. He will take you to the church He has prepared for you. Hallelujah and Praise God. Diana |
