Quote:
Originally Posted by The Lemon
during my struggle, I have missed some services - I have been sat down - I know what it feels like to feel you need to perform for approval and opportunities to share what God has given you. I play music, and am licensed, if I go away with my family for a weekend - you can bet the following Sunday, I am not asked on the platform to play. No words spoken, but a silent rebuke is just as loud as a verbal one, believe me.
I have noticed when I do all that is expected, dress the part, attend, give and all in betweens, I am included - if I hiccup, boom, it changes. It is sad, and speaks nothing of relationship, but screams religion loud and clear.
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Wow. This hits so close to home, it's almost like looking in a mirror.
Months back, we had a "special service" announced just days beforehand...when our family had already made plans months ago to another (non-church) commitment. And then comments are made over the platform that if you "don't change your plans to attend this special service" (that we just announced, three days in advance) "you must not love children." What message is that sending to my children to raise them in this type of atmosphere where comments like undermine the spiritual authority we should have in our home? Not wanting to hi-jak this thread, but I just had to point out that it's a common theme, and others are struggling with very similar issues and decisions.