muskateerette, It's so wonderful that you got a chance to get to know God more intimately. That might not have happened if you had 'religiously' attended church every week. Taking a break from church has really enlightened me in the sense that I realise that it is my relationship with God which matters, not whether or not I attend every prayer meeting, ladies' evening, bible study, etc. I think I have allowed myself to be pressured and guilt-tripped into burning myself out trying to serve the Lord, when in reality I've been too busy to spend proper time in relationship with Him. Joyce Meyer is currently teaching on this very subject and it has really spoken to my heart. For the first time in my life I have realised that God loves and accepts me unconditionally and I can't make Him love me more by striving all the time.

I think sometimes churches manipulate people by teaching them that if we dare not attend everything regularly then something bad will happen. For example, I was once told that if I chose to go out with my family instead of attend church we might have a car accident because God would not look after us if we were being disobedient! Isn't that a rotten thing to plant in someone's heart?? I disregarded it but other people might really believe that stuff. Anyway, I'm discovering some wonderful truths and it's so refreshing!

Thank you for caring about my daughter, prayers would be appreciated. xx

I use the New Revised Standard Version and I have the Life Application Bible. I absolutely love it.

I don't like religion that instills guilt. I don't beleive God works like that. I had to shed that from my catholic upbringing and it took awhile. I'm glad those feeling are gone. They can make you crazy.

countrygirl, I was so blessed by using John Eldredge's books and journals during these years. I learned that the thing the Lord wants above all else is an intimate relationship with ME. I am that valuable. The church tends to teach that service is the priority. How can we really serve others if we are empty inside? How can we share the Lord with others if we don't really know him, because we never spend time with him, because we are way to busy running in circles? My eyes have been so opened to how hungry I was for intimacy. The kind of intimacy that can only come from him. It is wonderful sharing with you, thank you. Blessings

Dotsie, I rarely hear of anyone who uses Revised Standard anymore. I have asked hubby for the New King James version for Christmas because my bible is so "war torn" I'm concerned about how frail the pages are getting. I understand it is excellant.

muskateerette, sounds like you went through the journey I'm travelling at the moment...I'll look out for John Eldredge's books, thank you. God Bless you and yours, xx

Hi countrygirl, I started with "The Sacred Romance", and the journal to go along with it, and had my heart opened to a whole new world in my relationship with the Lord. Blessings on your journey

muskateerette, thank you. God Bless, xx