Let's face it, we all have some types of problems in our lives. Some small, while others are a bit bigger. Sometimes we create our own problems when we don't mean to. Then we try to solve them on our own. While in this process we may be stepping on our friends and all we end up doing is putting ourselves into a deeper hole then we were already in. But let me tell you this, there is always a way out. You are never stuck in your mess, because all you have to do is ask for help. You aren't alone. There are over 1.2 billion people on this earth and someone is bound to help you. Weather it be a friend, family member, or someone you don't even know. We've all had our share of problems and some of us have gone through similar situations. So no matter what problem you have, someone can help you. You are more then the problems you create. You are more <3.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Saturday, July 28, 2012
You Are More; Mistakes
Post 2:
photo: screenshot from my phone. It's been taken from instagram by instagod_
This post is closely related to Choices. As stated in the photo, Your mistakes don't define you. When you do something wrong, you can either learn from it or let eat you alive (figuratively...). And that is my little tidbit of knowledge until the next post. (:
Friday, July 20, 2012
You Are More; Choices
Post 1:
Life is nothing but choices. Our everday lives are based off of choices made by us and other people. Sometimes we make good ones, while other times we may not. Good choices may not always make life easier, but when it all boils down to the point, they are about doing the right thing. Bad choices always make life harder. A poor desicision made by someone else may affect your life but you can't let it define who you really are. Example: A man get drunk at a bar and decides to drive home intoxicated. He crashes into to your car (with you in it) and now you are both severly injured. Based off of his bad choice he has now also affected you. But that's the focous of this post.
We are human, we are going to made poor choices, and we are going to mess up, but that doesn't mean you should let bad choices rule our lives. You are more then the choices that you make (Tenth Avenue North reference) One bad choice does not define who you are or who you are going to be. You shouldn't let it rule your life. You are more.
Life is nothing but choices. Our everday lives are based off of choices made by us and other people. Sometimes we make good ones, while other times we may not. Good choices may not always make life easier, but when it all boils down to the point, they are about doing the right thing. Bad choices always make life harder. A poor desicision made by someone else may affect your life but you can't let it define who you really are. Example: A man get drunk at a bar and decides to drive home intoxicated. He crashes into to your car (with you in it) and now you are both severly injured. Based off of his bad choice he has now also affected you. But that's the focous of this post.
We are human, we are going to made poor choices, and we are going to mess up, but that doesn't mean you should let bad choices rule our lives. You are more then the choices that you make (Tenth Avenue North reference) One bad choice does not define who you are or who you are going to be. You shouldn't let it rule your life. You are more.
You Are More - Tenth Avenue North
This song has helped through a lot of stuff. I Absolutely adore this song.
NEW! Mini Series!
Hey everyone! Just got back from my 2nd vacation to Concan, Tx (deffinetly cooler then Arkansas) and while I was floating down the Frion Rio, I got got some bueno (good) ideas (:
So with out futher delay I present to ya'll my new mini series called You Are More!! It's based off my favorite song You Are More by Tenth Avenue North and it will consist of seven "lessons" or posts. After this I plan on having another mini series call Dear God (coming soon). In the past 2 years or so I thought it would be cool to write to God (This was before I knew about the movie Letters to God) and in that series there will also be seven "lessons" or posts. Anyway I hope you enjoy the next seven posts cause they will be awesome. (The first one doesn't count though because it's the music video for the actual song).
So with out futher delay I present to ya'll my new mini series called You Are More!! It's based off my favorite song You Are More by Tenth Avenue North and it will consist of seven "lessons" or posts. After this I plan on having another mini series call Dear God (coming soon). In the past 2 years or so I thought it would be cool to write to God (This was before I knew about the movie Letters to God) and in that series there will also be seven "lessons" or posts. Anyway I hope you enjoy the next seven posts cause they will be awesome. (The first one doesn't count though because it's the music video for the actual song).
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
What the world is doing to our (my) generation
I've been thinking a lot lately. In today's world, we almost have everything at the push of a button. Quite frankly I find it somewhat ridiculous sometimes. And technology is moving so quickly, it's becoming harder to keep up with. You can buy a phone and two weeks later (I kid you not) the next latest and greatest version comes out!
Then everyone wants what other people have. I can honestly say I am completely guilty of this. For example someone could have a grand piano (I'm in love with those!!) and I can't help but want it soooooo badly! Or someone is better at something that I am and I'm jealous. We can't help!
Now here we have our (my) generation. We are becoming greedy, inconsiderate and violent. (really I could go on and on)Why? Because of television, the internet, music, and the way society is playing out. We may not know it but, TV is flashing all of this stuff in our face constantly. It's always have the greastest body, or the prettiest skin. And it's not like MTV is helping or anything. 16 and pregnant? If I got pregnant at 16 I'd get slapped in the face and grounded for life!? Not a television show!!
Here we have the matter of violence. You have all these influences around us and it's hard not to give in. Video games for example. I play Modern Warfare 2, 3 and Black Ops. Yes it is rate M and I think it would be smart if parents payed attention to labeling.... Anyway, I have my live chat on so I can talk to anyone who has there mic on. A good 95% of the people I hear talking are kids probably under the age of 13 cusing me out. That nerves me the most. You're 13 for cying out loud! You shouldn't be cusing people out or playing this game in the first place! The sad part is, this all translates into real life.
Then there's clothing. Have you walked into your local Target or JCP? I've been in the childrens clothing department and it is a MESS.. Half the clothing is stuff a teenager my age would be wearing! Ripped jeans, "sexy" tops and crap like that. What are we doing to kids these days?
1. We are spoiling the crap out of them! I know you want them to have a better life then you did, but eventually you have to realize when it's time to say no. All we are doing is teaching them that they can have whatever they want whenever they want it.
2. We are overprotective. Yes I understand with all this madness in todays society you want to keep your kid safe. I understand that. But there comes a time when you have to stop and just let things happen or let them figure it out on their own...
3. Not everyone wins... As harsh as it may sound, it's true. Come on, everyone wins sports? That in my opinion is a step to far. It's like little kids communisim. Everyone is equal. If she gets this you can have it too. As much as we wish it could work out this way, it just doesn't. Real life still goes on.
Music. The one sacred art of mine that society has managed to pervert! We have songs about sex, and songs about drugs and getting high. Seriously? Are we trying to mess people up? Raps about violence and thugery (<-- word?) You'd be suprised what kid and teens pick up through music. I pick up a lot from music. Music for me is inspiring. It shouldn't be about how you get high at parties.. Owl City (aka Adam Young) and Tenth Avenue North write amazing music. I wish more music was written this way. It's inspiring and doesn't teach you how to smoke a joint...
It's the stuff like this that sets me off. It bothers me and I hate watching society play out like this. I really wish there was an easy way to fix everything (sadly there is not). I am terriffied of my generation and what we have set up for ourselves. Are we going to crash and burn? Or can we fix the mess we've made?
Now I'm not telling you how to parent your kids, cause I'm just a teen myself. But I am noticing all of this and I want this out there, beacuse it's all true. I know a lot of people could care less, but I do care. And if I'm the only one, that's fine with me. But I can't just sit here and watch anymore. It's just driving me insane...
Then everyone wants what other people have. I can honestly say I am completely guilty of this. For example someone could have a grand piano (I'm in love with those!!) and I can't help but want it soooooo badly! Or someone is better at something that I am and I'm jealous. We can't help!
Now here we have our (my) generation. We are becoming greedy, inconsiderate and violent. (really I could go on and on)Why? Because of television, the internet, music, and the way society is playing out. We may not know it but, TV is flashing all of this stuff in our face constantly. It's always have the greastest body, or the prettiest skin. And it's not like MTV is helping or anything. 16 and pregnant? If I got pregnant at 16 I'd get slapped in the face and grounded for life!? Not a television show!!
Here we have the matter of violence. You have all these influences around us and it's hard not to give in. Video games for example. I play Modern Warfare 2, 3 and Black Ops. Yes it is rate M and I think it would be smart if parents payed attention to labeling.... Anyway, I have my live chat on so I can talk to anyone who has there mic on. A good 95% of the people I hear talking are kids probably under the age of 13 cusing me out. That nerves me the most. You're 13 for cying out loud! You shouldn't be cusing people out or playing this game in the first place! The sad part is, this all translates into real life.
Then there's clothing. Have you walked into your local Target or JCP? I've been in the childrens clothing department and it is a MESS.. Half the clothing is stuff a teenager my age would be wearing! Ripped jeans, "sexy" tops and crap like that. What are we doing to kids these days?
1. We are spoiling the crap out of them! I know you want them to have a better life then you did, but eventually you have to realize when it's time to say no. All we are doing is teaching them that they can have whatever they want whenever they want it.
2. We are overprotective. Yes I understand with all this madness in todays society you want to keep your kid safe. I understand that. But there comes a time when you have to stop and just let things happen or let them figure it out on their own...
3. Not everyone wins... As harsh as it may sound, it's true. Come on, everyone wins sports? That in my opinion is a step to far. It's like little kids communisim. Everyone is equal. If she gets this you can have it too. As much as we wish it could work out this way, it just doesn't. Real life still goes on.
Music. The one sacred art of mine that society has managed to pervert! We have songs about sex, and songs about drugs and getting high. Seriously? Are we trying to mess people up? Raps about violence and thugery (<-- word?) You'd be suprised what kid and teens pick up through music. I pick up a lot from music. Music for me is inspiring. It shouldn't be about how you get high at parties.. Owl City (aka Adam Young) and Tenth Avenue North write amazing music. I wish more music was written this way. It's inspiring and doesn't teach you how to smoke a joint...
It's the stuff like this that sets me off. It bothers me and I hate watching society play out like this. I really wish there was an easy way to fix everything (sadly there is not). I am terriffied of my generation and what we have set up for ourselves. Are we going to crash and burn? Or can we fix the mess we've made?
Now I'm not telling you how to parent your kids, cause I'm just a teen myself. But I am noticing all of this and I want this out there, beacuse it's all true. I know a lot of people could care less, but I do care. And if I'm the only one, that's fine with me. But I can't just sit here and watch anymore. It's just driving me insane...
OK IM BACK!
Hey (: I'm finally back.. I know i dropped off the map for a while, but I've had some stuff going on.. Anyway I am trying to not leave such a large gap in between postings. Maybe a week max between posts (and that's a goal I intend to keep hopefully)
Till then, stay awesome (:
Taylor Ray
Till then, stay awesome (:
Taylor Ray
Monday, June 25, 2012
Vacation?
Hey!
I wanted to let all of you lovely people know that I'm am leaving for a vacation. Where I am going, phone service and internet are non-existant... Ergo I shall not be posting for about a 1 1/2 weeks tops. So don't freak out :3 I shall return soon (: Untill then enjoy reading some older posts you might not have read OR check out my other blogs of total randomness..
Adios amigos!
I wanted to let all of you lovely people know that I'm am leaving for a vacation. Where I am going, phone service and internet are non-existant... Ergo I shall not be posting for about a 1 1/2 weeks tops. So don't freak out :3 I shall return soon (: Untill then enjoy reading some older posts you might not have read OR check out my other blogs of total randomness..
Adios amigos!
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Video Blog (Vlog)
Anyway this blog is about being yourself. Not letting anyone tell you otherwise. Just be you.
Song in background: A Story Forever - Mike Peralta
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
"Safe and Sound" - Taylor Swift (ft. Sam Tsui and Kurt Schneider)
An extremely beautiful rendition of Taylor Swift's "Safe and Sound" By Sam Tsui and Kurt Schneider. Thought I might share it with all you lovely people (:
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Child-like Faith
blog: 6/17/12
When we were 5, we believed in Santa Clause and the Easter Bunny. When we were 10, we believer in the Tooth Fairy. It didn't matter what other people said, they were real and we had faith in that.
It's amazing that people have faith in the strangest things, but they don't have faith in God. Why is it that as we get older we begin to lose that faith we had as a child. We begin to question and doubt everything around us. Why do we lose that child-like faith??
I'll tell you why. We begin to lose that faith when we begin to understand the difference between right and wrong. We begin to question things and ask why? Instead of ask why, we should be asking why not. Become like a child again in your faith. Accept the grace God has given you. Luke 18:17, "Assuredly I say to you, whoever deos not recieve the Kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it."
Believe without a doubt and become like a child again, because "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1)."
When we come to God, we should come to Him with a child-like faith. Without and doubts; No worries, no nothing. Just like a child.
When we were 5, we believed in Santa Clause and the Easter Bunny. When we were 10, we believer in the Tooth Fairy. It didn't matter what other people said, they were real and we had faith in that.
It's amazing that people have faith in the strangest things, but they don't have faith in God. Why is it that as we get older we begin to lose that faith we had as a child. We begin to question and doubt everything around us. Why do we lose that child-like faith??
I'll tell you why. We begin to lose that faith when we begin to understand the difference between right and wrong. We begin to question things and ask why? Instead of ask why, we should be asking why not. Become like a child again in your faith. Accept the grace God has given you. Luke 18:17, "Assuredly I say to you, whoever deos not recieve the Kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it."
Believe without a doubt and become like a child again, because "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1)."
When we come to God, we should come to Him with a child-like faith. Without and doubts; No worries, no nothing. Just like a child.
God and Evil
Forgot to post this one (:
blog: 6/15/12
Why is there evil in the world? A question asked by many. Evil is also known as sin. Sin came into the world after The Fall. It's a consequence we have to live with.
Some philosophers say if God exists, then evil cannot. If evil exists, then God cannot. Well that's hog wash. The both exist together, but seperate. There is only one explination as to why God allows evil to exist and it's because of our free will.
We can distinguish the difference between right and wrong. God has given us the free will to choose between the two. This doesn't mean God can't make you choose good, because He could. He chooses not to though because He's given us free will.
God wants us to choose good though, so we may be closer to Him. We should strive to do good each and every day. Dare to be unique in Christ. (:
blog: 6/15/12
Why is there evil in the world? A question asked by many. Evil is also known as sin. Sin came into the world after The Fall. It's a consequence we have to live with.
Some philosophers say if God exists, then evil cannot. If evil exists, then God cannot. Well that's hog wash. The both exist together, but seperate. There is only one explination as to why God allows evil to exist and it's because of our free will.
We can distinguish the difference between right and wrong. God has given us the free will to choose between the two. This doesn't mean God can't make you choose good, because He could. He chooses not to though because He's given us free will.
God wants us to choose good though, so we may be closer to Him. We should strive to do good each and every day. Dare to be unique in Christ. (:
Friday, June 15, 2012
Thursday, June 14, 2012
New designs
Please leave feedback, 'cause I'd love that (: Thanks!!!
- Taylor Ray <3
He Love, He Came, He Gave (The Xchange)
(c) 2012 Taylor Ray
Top Left: He exchanged His life for ours, shouln't we do the same?
Bottom Left: The Xchange
Bottom Right: The Xchange, The Xception, The Xpectation
(c) 2012 Taylor Ray
The Xchange <3
(c) 2012 Taylor Ray
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Through the Storm
Mark 4:35-41. To sum up, it's the story of when Jesus calmed the storm. When I was at frontier Camp, we a devotional (or devo for short) on this and I though I should share it with you and add my own little twist. (:
When something bad happens in our life, we try to handle it ourselves. And when it doesn't go our way we tend to blame God for our failure. That's like cheating on your friends test, then blaming your friend because you failed. Makes no sense right?
There comes a time when we can't so things on our own and we need help. God is always there with us during the storm. He's waiting, watching, and ready to help. We just have to put aside pride and ask for His help. Part of Deuteronomy 31:8 says that God will never leave you or forsake you. We mean to much to Him and God would never leave us "hanging". He loves us and doesn't want to see us hurt.
There will be many storms in this life and it won't always be easy to hold on. We just have to call on God for help, because we aren't strong enough to do it on our own.
When something bad happens in our life, we try to handle it ourselves. And when it doesn't go our way we tend to blame God for our failure. That's like cheating on your friends test, then blaming your friend because you failed. Makes no sense right?
There comes a time when we can't so things on our own and we need help. God is always there with us during the storm. He's waiting, watching, and ready to help. We just have to put aside pride and ask for His help. Part of Deuteronomy 31:8 says that God will never leave you or forsake you. We mean to much to Him and God would never leave us "hanging". He loves us and doesn't want to see us hurt.
There will be many storms in this life and it won't always be easy to hold on. We just have to call on God for help, because we aren't strong enough to do it on our own.
For Brenna and Maggie (:
Thanks for everything, you guys are truly amazing!
Thursday, May 17, 2012
God's Chisel
This is a video called God's Chisel made by The Skit Guys. Now the first time I saw this was at school during our chapel time. Honestly I could't watch it because I didn't want to cry. It's so true that it kinda catches you off gaurd and you think, wow, I'm just like that and it makes you think what you're doing in life.
It's about letting God take control of your life and I can honestly say I don't do that very well... But it's a work in progress. He keeps chiseling untill we are perfect. Trust me, God knkows what He's doing. He's been doing it for a long time.. God doesn't make junk, He makes masterpieces...
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Ah, young love
Have you ever wanted something so bad that it hurt? Or maybe you liked someone and they didn't know? I have experienced both and am actually dealing with one right now... There is this really cute guy at my school and he's really sweet. He's tall, cute, artistic, he's even a photographer!! He's everything I could ever think of! We have one class together, Art 2. Both of us love art, except he paints and I prefer pencil paper. Anyway I have had a huge crush on him for 2 years now and he's graduating this year. He does have a younger brother and I'm convinced he set us up for homecoming. It was sweet yes, but I still like him and I think he already has a girlfriend and I don't wanna mess anything up. It's hard not to look for him on a regular day though or trying not to stare at him during art class ('cause that's awkward)... Oh, love, why must you be so complex!? </3
Sometimes we can't always get what we want and sadly I know that expression all to well.. Things happen and you can't do anything about. For example, My crush may never know I like him and that's just the way it will be. 'Cause I'm not one to confess my feelings to the whole school like some people... It drives me crazy! Love hurts and doesn't play fair sometimes, but that's just the way the world goes 'round. *sigh*
Sometimes we can't always get what we want and sadly I know that expression all to well.. Things happen and you can't do anything about. For example, My crush may never know I like him and that's just the way it will be. 'Cause I'm not one to confess my feelings to the whole school like some people... It drives me crazy! Love hurts and doesn't play fair sometimes, but that's just the way the world goes 'round. *sigh*
Don't foget about...
I actually have two blogs :3 This one and Upon My Every Whim. That one is a little less structred, meaning I post whatever I want there. LOL! The link is down below. Don't forget to check it out and enjoy!
uponmyeverywhim.blogspot.com
uponmyeverywhim.blogspot.com
Monday, April 23, 2012
A second chance
She puts on a smile,
A show for all to see,
She talks like they want her to,
She walk like they want her to,
She does what they want.
It's just a show.
Behind that smile is somthing more though,
A broken heart waiting for love,
A broken smile waiting for joy,
A broken spirit waiting for hope,
Broken.
She stands alone in her room,
Alone because no one wants her,
Alone because she's afraid,
Alone because it's all she's ever known,
Alone.
He see her there,
In a show that's not her's,
In a broken state she doesn't desrve,
All alone with no faith,
Faith.
He gives her a chance,
A chance to change,
A chance to be who she wants,
A chance to live again.
Life.
No longer does she have to do what they want her to do,
No longer does she have to be broken,
No longer is she alone without hope,
She's free.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
The Bible and Gay people.
FOREWARNING: This is more or less two posts in one (in a strange way). Now some of my posts might be extremley controversial, which is understandable because everyone has their own view point. Now even this is a touchy subject for me. while some don't care, some do and I'm going to introduce it.
Is it wrong to disagree with the Bible? I am dead serious, yes I just said that. I have been told flat out yes. Yes it is wrong to disagree with the Bible, because God wrote the Bible and it's what He gave us. Now don't get me wrong, they are true and have a point. But I tend to question a lot of questions, tough questions, that I will never know the answer to. Honestly you can't help but wonder about everything in the Bible.
Now I'm not out to pick the Bible apart, I just want answers. Here is something that is stated in the Bible that i don't agree with. Gay people are bad. I've always liked them, and I love being around them. Not that I am one, I don't swing that way... Anyway, I had a conversation with a friend one time, and she showed me the points in the Bible where it clearly states that it's wrong. I just have a hard time grasping it though. "Love the sinner, hate the sin" is what I remember her saying... Now as a friend i value her opinion. Good insight and you should always stay open-minded to others, but like I said, I just can't wrap my mind around it.
God created everyone special right? He would never turn His back on anyone right? So He wouldn't turn His back on these people right? Question, but no answer. Now I'm not trying to defy God by asking trick questions, I'm just confused.
You say, "God didn't creat gay people just the person. Being gay is a sin, it's not good.
I reply, "They feel forced into this position. They feel different like they don't belong."
You say, "It doesn't matter it's still wrong."
I reply, "Put yourself in their shoes, see what it's like to be mocked by people every single day just because they are different. They are special, and I'm sure God has something special in mind for them. He loves them too you know. It's not just us on this sad little planet."
Like I stated earilier, I can't wrap my mind around the fact that they would go to hell for something that feels natural to them. I have a friend and he (not gonna mention a name cuz i don't wanna upset him or anything) was harassed all of middle school because he, being a guy, liked High School Musical. People made fun of him, told he was gay, and that he was a weirdo, a freak. I love him to death and I felt awful. I became really close friends with him, because I know what it's like to not have many friends cause your weird or something like that. Anyway, because people told him he was gay and that he wasn't normal, he became bi. He believed eveything they told him and he felt like it was the only way out. I love him regardless and you can judge him if you want, but he's a good friend and always will be.
I can't come to terms with that one small thing in the Bible, and I don't know if I should feel bad or if I should feel bad at all. Disagreeing with the Bible is a big thing, because supposedly your going aginst God and I would never do that. But again (and yes, i do keep restaing this) I just can't wrap my mind around it... No man left behind right?
Is it wrong to disagree with the Bible? I am dead serious, yes I just said that. I have been told flat out yes. Yes it is wrong to disagree with the Bible, because God wrote the Bible and it's what He gave us. Now don't get me wrong, they are true and have a point. But I tend to question a lot of questions, tough questions, that I will never know the answer to. Honestly you can't help but wonder about everything in the Bible.
Now I'm not out to pick the Bible apart, I just want answers. Here is something that is stated in the Bible that i don't agree with. Gay people are bad. I've always liked them, and I love being around them. Not that I am one, I don't swing that way... Anyway, I had a conversation with a friend one time, and she showed me the points in the Bible where it clearly states that it's wrong. I just have a hard time grasping it though. "Love the sinner, hate the sin" is what I remember her saying... Now as a friend i value her opinion. Good insight and you should always stay open-minded to others, but like I said, I just can't wrap my mind around it.
God created everyone special right? He would never turn His back on anyone right? So He wouldn't turn His back on these people right? Question, but no answer. Now I'm not trying to defy God by asking trick questions, I'm just confused.
You say, "God didn't creat gay people just the person. Being gay is a sin, it's not good.
I reply, "They feel forced into this position. They feel different like they don't belong."
You say, "It doesn't matter it's still wrong."
I reply, "Put yourself in their shoes, see what it's like to be mocked by people every single day just because they are different. They are special, and I'm sure God has something special in mind for them. He loves them too you know. It's not just us on this sad little planet."
Like I stated earilier, I can't wrap my mind around the fact that they would go to hell for something that feels natural to them. I have a friend and he (not gonna mention a name cuz i don't wanna upset him or anything) was harassed all of middle school because he, being a guy, liked High School Musical. People made fun of him, told he was gay, and that he was a weirdo, a freak. I love him to death and I felt awful. I became really close friends with him, because I know what it's like to not have many friends cause your weird or something like that. Anyway, because people told him he was gay and that he wasn't normal, he became bi. He believed eveything they told him and he felt like it was the only way out. I love him regardless and you can judge him if you want, but he's a good friend and always will be.
I can't come to terms with that one small thing in the Bible, and I don't know if I should feel bad or if I should feel bad at all. Disagreeing with the Bible is a big thing, because supposedly your going aginst God and I would never do that. But again (and yes, i do keep restaing this) I just can't wrap my mind around it... No man left behind right?
I'm so lost at this point and I can't speak for God.
So why should you?
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Religion
Did you know there are about 21 major religions in the world today? Not to mention all the smaller religions that are unknown. Catholicism is the largest with 2,039 million members. It was founded around 30 CE. Islam is only second with 1,570 million and is suprisingly one of the fastest growing religions out there. Now with this being stated, why are there so many different religions?
Honestly it's quite strange in my view. What is religion anyway? Well I decided to Google that definition and here is what I found: The belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, esp. a personal God or gods. Interesting right? That's what I thought too. Me? Well, I don't define religion very well. I don't have a "fine line" of what religion is. Technically I am a Catholic, born and raised. Now I have no clue what I am. Does it even matter really? Honestly and truely, does it matter at all? I don't even go to church that often. So does this make me any less of a Catholic. In the eyes of others; yes. In my eyes; no. I still believe in God one way or another.
So back to the main point. Why are there so many different religions. All they do is fight against one another. Each one thinks they are right while the other is wrong. It's all view point and perspective. Some religions are so closely related it's rediculous, while others stand worlds apart. Take Luthernism and Catholisim for example. They are almost the same thing. When you boil it all down and take a deep look inside, Luthernism is derived from Catholisism. So in reality all religion is derived from another religion.
Spliting open religion:
Now lets "split open" a religion. Lets go with Muslim. Pretty much the same as Islam Maybe even the same from what I've read/heard. They believe in the Prophet Mohammed. Now they've heard about Jesus, but belive that He was just a sub-minor prophet. Now, Lutherns and Catholics (and yes I'm pairing these two again) believe that Jesus came to earth and died for our sins. That He is the Son of God. Do you see where I'm going here? Three (or two considering i paired those up there) religions, two completely different views. It's amazing really.
Religion is restricive in my opnion. When i was younger, I went to a private Catholic school. I think back to it all the time and realize how many rules there were. How strict and straight lined everything was. At one point I didn't want to be Catholic anymore. Honest truth. One of the teachers made feel like this everyday. Made me feel like i knew nothing about Catholisism. But, I made a promise to a friend, and I'm going to keep it. No easy way out. So I've had my ups and my downs and I still have them. The one promise I'm determined to keep, even if she doesn't remember it.
Some people use religion to manipulate others. Yes I just said that. It's sad, but true. They put others in a continuous loop of doubt and self conciousness. Eventually they (being the other people mentioned in the last sentence in case you were lost) feel stuck and lose hope. Don't be one of those people. Find a way out. Find a way to believe again because giving up isn't an option and it never should be.
Religion seperates people. It keeps them from seeing everyone around them. They look down on eachother. They hate eachother. They even fight against eachother. They are blind. Blind to the point of wanting to get rid of others. They teach their kids that one religion is bad and wrong and theirs is right. One day, we are going to mess up big and the only way to get ourselves out is to help eachother. We are digging ourselves a big hole. I promise you that. And when we fall into this proverbial hole, we will be stuck.
Striping down these boundries is an enormous task. It may never happen and I for find that very true. We need to stop fighting eachother before we blow up the world and start World War III. If WWIII ever becomes a reality (and I pray to God that it doesn't) it will be because of reigion. (my opinon and a huge accusation. Yes I know...) Stop playing the blame game people. This includes me. How do you thinks WWII started? It started with laying the blame on someone else. Take responsibility. Learn to face your mistakes.
Now I know I may be judged for this statement, but here goes. I tend to leave people alone. I don't go out and convert every person I see. I enjoy seeing everyones view because everyone is different. Now I've had many conversations with many differen people about religion and God; Gay, no religious view, Mormon and Luthern. I try to be diverse. Understand others to better understand yourself. No judgement understand? If you judge others you should probably judge yourself first. No I'm not going to form my own religion because there is absolutley no point in that. But you don't absolutly need religion to believe in God. You just need faith.
Honestly it's quite strange in my view. What is religion anyway? Well I decided to Google that definition and here is what I found: The belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, esp. a personal God or gods. Interesting right? That's what I thought too. Me? Well, I don't define religion very well. I don't have a "fine line" of what religion is. Technically I am a Catholic, born and raised. Now I have no clue what I am. Does it even matter really? Honestly and truely, does it matter at all? I don't even go to church that often. So does this make me any less of a Catholic. In the eyes of others; yes. In my eyes; no. I still believe in God one way or another.
So back to the main point. Why are there so many different religions. All they do is fight against one another. Each one thinks they are right while the other is wrong. It's all view point and perspective. Some religions are so closely related it's rediculous, while others stand worlds apart. Take Luthernism and Catholisim for example. They are almost the same thing. When you boil it all down and take a deep look inside, Luthernism is derived from Catholisism. So in reality all religion is derived from another religion.
Spliting open religion:
Now lets "split open" a religion. Lets go with Muslim. Pretty much the same as Islam Maybe even the same from what I've read/heard. They believe in the Prophet Mohammed. Now they've heard about Jesus, but belive that He was just a sub-minor prophet. Now, Lutherns and Catholics (and yes I'm pairing these two again) believe that Jesus came to earth and died for our sins. That He is the Son of God. Do you see where I'm going here? Three (or two considering i paired those up there) religions, two completely different views. It's amazing really.
Religion is restricive in my opnion. When i was younger, I went to a private Catholic school. I think back to it all the time and realize how many rules there were. How strict and straight lined everything was. At one point I didn't want to be Catholic anymore. Honest truth. One of the teachers made feel like this everyday. Made me feel like i knew nothing about Catholisism. But, I made a promise to a friend, and I'm going to keep it. No easy way out. So I've had my ups and my downs and I still have them. The one promise I'm determined to keep, even if she doesn't remember it.
Some people use religion to manipulate others. Yes I just said that. It's sad, but true. They put others in a continuous loop of doubt and self conciousness. Eventually they (being the other people mentioned in the last sentence in case you were lost) feel stuck and lose hope. Don't be one of those people. Find a way out. Find a way to believe again because giving up isn't an option and it never should be.
Religion seperates people. It keeps them from seeing everyone around them. They look down on eachother. They hate eachother. They even fight against eachother. They are blind. Blind to the point of wanting to get rid of others. They teach their kids that one religion is bad and wrong and theirs is right. One day, we are going to mess up big and the only way to get ourselves out is to help eachother. We are digging ourselves a big hole. I promise you that. And when we fall into this proverbial hole, we will be stuck.
Striping down these boundries is an enormous task. It may never happen and I for find that very true. We need to stop fighting eachother before we blow up the world and start World War III. If WWIII ever becomes a reality (and I pray to God that it doesn't) it will be because of reigion. (my opinon and a huge accusation. Yes I know...) Stop playing the blame game people. This includes me. How do you thinks WWII started? It started with laying the blame on someone else. Take responsibility. Learn to face your mistakes.
Now I know I may be judged for this statement, but here goes. I tend to leave people alone. I don't go out and convert every person I see. I enjoy seeing everyones view because everyone is different. Now I've had many conversations with many differen people about religion and God; Gay, no religious view, Mormon and Luthern. I try to be diverse. Understand others to better understand yourself. No judgement understand? If you judge others you should probably judge yourself first. No I'm not going to form my own religion because there is absolutley no point in that. But you don't absolutly need religion to believe in God. You just need faith.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
What is God like?
Weather we belive in God or not, the real question eventually comes to mind; "What is God like?" Now I, being myself, have always pondered this question. (most recently too) I've tried to imagine it and have unsuccessfully figured it out, that is until recently. See, the answer is so simple and it's right there. sometimes we just look to hard.
God is love. Not just love, but never ending love. He loves us so much that it's impossible to wrap your mind around. I can't even to begin to imagine how much he loves us. Out of everything in the world, He chose to love us, even after all the bad things we do. Even if we don't love Him back, He'll always love us. (John 3:16) "For God so loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son. so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but have eternal life." And today being Easter, this is the most perfect example anyone could give you <3.
God is unchanging. He's the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.(James 1:17) "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." He is as constant as the northern star.
God is all-knowing. He knows everything about us (See Psalm 139). There is nothing we cannot hide from Him. Jeremiah 23:24 "Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?” declares the LORD." It's impossible to hide anything from God.
These are just a few key points as to what God is like. He is everything and more. I garentee it (: <3
God is love. Not just love, but never ending love. He loves us so much that it's impossible to wrap your mind around. I can't even to begin to imagine how much he loves us. Out of everything in the world, He chose to love us, even after all the bad things we do. Even if we don't love Him back, He'll always love us. (John 3:16) "For God so loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son. so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but have eternal life." And today being Easter, this is the most perfect example anyone could give you <3.
God is unchanging. He's the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.(James 1:17) "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." He is as constant as the northern star.
God is all-knowing. He knows everything about us (See Psalm 139). There is nothing we cannot hide from Him. Jeremiah 23:24 "Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?” declares the LORD." It's impossible to hide anything from God.
These are just a few key points as to what God is like. He is everything and more. I garentee it (: <3
Sunday, April 1, 2012
God and the Bible
One day i was talking to a friend about Paul Harvey's "If i were the devil" speech. As we were talking she mentions that someone had asked her this question the other day; "If God wrote the Bible, wouldn't He give everyone a copy?" Now i personally have never been asked this question. To me it sounds a bit smug, like a trick question. Now, I have no clue if this person was serious or not, but it prompted me to write this; God and the Bible.
Let me make this clear, God didn't literally, phyisicaly write the bible Himself, it's God inspired or "God-breathed". (2 Tim 3:16) "All scripture is inspired by God", notice the word inspired. God used people, like you and me, to write the bible using their own voice, style, and perspective. "The Bible is not divine dictation. The writers were not in some kind of trance..." (1312). They were inpired by God (Yes I am stressing this point...) to write their book of the bible. Now some of you may be getting clever and saying, 'but it was written by people', people. So it's wrong because people aren't perfect. No, sorry it doesn't work like that. Remeber the bible is God inspired, not people inspired. God is never wrong, it's just not in his nature. (If you would like to argue this leave a comment and I'll get to it eventually.)
Part two of plan one, God gave us freewill. Genesis 2, god created man/woman (Adam/Eve) and places them in the Garden of Eden. He gives them one rule; don't eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. One simple rule. Now in Genesis 3, sneaky little Satan, desgised as a snake, comes along and convinces them that the tree is good and okay to eat. Basically he's really good at re-wording sentences. Anyway, this leads to The Fall. See God had given Adam and Eve the freewill to do/eat anything in the garden (minus the tree rule..), but in this case they abused it.
Now back to that question; "If God wrote the Bible, wouldn't He give everyone a copy?". My answer is no. Why? Back to Genesis 2. God gave us freewill. Simple. Life without freewill isn't much life at all and God wisely gave it to us. Now how you use that freewill is up to you. God is not going to force us to believe in Him, but He'd like you too. We have to make the decision ourself. The reall question is, "Where do you stand?"
Source:
Apologetics Study bible for Students; HCBS Version
Let me make this clear, God didn't literally, phyisicaly write the bible Himself, it's God inspired or "God-breathed". (2 Tim 3:16) "All scripture is inspired by God", notice the word inspired. God used people, like you and me, to write the bible using their own voice, style, and perspective. "The Bible is not divine dictation. The writers were not in some kind of trance..." (1312). They were inpired by God (Yes I am stressing this point...) to write their book of the bible. Now some of you may be getting clever and saying, 'but it was written by people', people. So it's wrong because people aren't perfect. No, sorry it doesn't work like that. Remeber the bible is God inspired, not people inspired. God is never wrong, it's just not in his nature. (If you would like to argue this leave a comment and I'll get to it eventually.)
Part two of plan one, God gave us freewill. Genesis 2, god created man/woman (Adam/Eve) and places them in the Garden of Eden. He gives them one rule; don't eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. One simple rule. Now in Genesis 3, sneaky little Satan, desgised as a snake, comes along and convinces them that the tree is good and okay to eat. Basically he's really good at re-wording sentences. Anyway, this leads to The Fall. See God had given Adam and Eve the freewill to do/eat anything in the garden (minus the tree rule..), but in this case they abused it.
Now back to that question; "If God wrote the Bible, wouldn't He give everyone a copy?". My answer is no. Why? Back to Genesis 2. God gave us freewill. Simple. Life without freewill isn't much life at all and God wisely gave it to us. Now how you use that freewill is up to you. God is not going to force us to believe in Him, but He'd like you too. We have to make the decision ourself. The reall question is, "Where do you stand?"
Source:
Apologetics Study bible for Students; HCBS Version
I am in no way a teacher
Let me be the first to say, I am no way a teacher. Recently I've been prompted to write some things that have been on my mind. And sometimes the sound "teachy" (teachable??). So with that said, lets begin. (:
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