(a) true statement

(b) I believe that everything written in the Bible is inspired by the absolute and unfailing word of God, written by a speaker of an ancient language and translated into English by someone who may have been influenced by any number of things. The Bible, as presented to us, is far removed from the original source, so at best it is a representation of God’s relationship with humanity and should be followed prayerfully and with common sense as to interpretation. We should live our lives according to the basic guidelines of loving (respecting) each other in a way that follows the example of Jesus the Christ.

(c) I believe that by following the example of Jesus, and allowing for the frailty of humanity; relying on my knowledge of right and wrong and yet accepting that my free will tempts me always to do what serves my own needs, the Bible provides a blueprint for my faith-life and examples of how God interceded when humans believed and when they didn’t. The bottom line is we are not perfect and God understands that, so Jesus came to show us perfection in life as well as in death upon the cross followed by resurrection and an eternity with God.

Your frustration, I would guess, comes partly from feelings of guilt at not being able to live according to your interpretation of the Bible. Again, the most basic lesson is to love or respect others as you do yourself. Treat others as you want to be treated. Pray for understanding and ask for forgiveness. Everything we do boils down to love (respect) for ourselves and others, including God. Ask yourself if what you are about to do would be disrespectful to someone else and rethink your plan if you need to. I know that is a simple way of expressing a concept that is vastly complicated, but really the beauty of God’s creation is in the complex simplicity of it all.

Do your best to live as you know you should. Pray on and contemplate your plan of action. Only do what you can truly say is respectful and loving. If you can’t, then there is something you have to change.

I hope you don’t beat yourself up about this Troy. Pray on this and ask for guidance. Look into your own heart and the beauty of creation that is within you will speak volumes. Listen for the still, small voice that guides you and see where it leads. Be open to where it takes you and learn what you can from the experience. Allow time. You must be ready before something so important can be revealed to you.

I wish you the best, Troy. You seem to be struggling. Resources are guidelines. Your own heart is a great resource too. It’s all printed there along with the perfect love that created you.
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