[MindOverMatter]

First of all, I just want to say that I feel like I have gone through a spiritual revelation this year. I was raised a Christian (JW). I have nothing against my parents religion, in fact I still attend meetings and such. But, my revelation or shall I say, my new way of thinking is that I believe in God but I dont believe in religion.

I feel this way because of the following points:

1. Shouldnt spirituality involve the individual. Isnt it about cultivating a relationship between you and a higher power?

2. If people will be judged, won't they be judged Individually? Not by groups,right? So what is the point of an organization.

3. How can you put your entire trust in "your religion" being right, when all mankind is imperfect? Therefore, wouldn't there imperfection be shown in their interpretation of the holy text and their philosophy.

4. Religion seperates people instead of bringing people together. It is just another way to classify a group of people.

5. Why is it that there are so many translations of the bible? Is it possible that various religions use their translation of the bible to support their philosphy.

6. I can major flaws in every religion. People will argue about who is right and who is wrong even within just the Jewish religion or the Christian religion.
Who is right and who is wrong?

Reasons that people turn to organized religion:

Family tradition
Fear
Longing for socialization
Belonging
and on and on....

What do you think of my concept?

I know a number of people who have gone a similar way to you... They believe in a personal God (as you do) and they might well attend religious rituals (church attendance, bible study groups etc) but they don't accept any of the standard interpretations of the Bible (or of God's will) that is endorsed by any of the standard religions.

i've been in The Christian Church, The Episcopal Church and The Methodist Church.

i now believe in my own personal higher power and Mother Earth. the older i've become, the more i've gone my own way.

[nothemama8]

as long as we believe , we live

[bebop]

seems to me this one could turn into a debate lol

it doesn't have to ;-)

though... i don't believe and i'm still alive...

[kimmydawn]

Mindovermatter,

I so hear what you're saying. I've often asked myself, or been confronted with the thoughts of, these same questions.

What I settled with was choosing what is best for me and my personal convictions by taking the most of what I can get when I find it appropropriate. I don't "lock myself into" a strict adherence of anything because it's then when I begin to feel discouraged by either viewing myself or others too harshly.

Possibly you may do the same...knowing your own understanding and applying it to what you feel comfortable and appropriate to bring about your own personalized spriritual experiences.

My personal beliefs can be found in bits and pieces of several religions...but it's my unique understanding and practice. It's where I've been the happiest.

I wish you so well and don't hesitate to PM if you want.

Have a great one,

KD

[sparkling]

MindOverMatter, I'm 100% with you. I stopped attending church when I was 11. God yes, religion no.

[Rapunzel]

Religion as an organization is only good insofar as it serves God's purposes, bringing us closer to Him. If it is a barrier to your direct relationship with God, then it isn't serving His purpose. Bad things have been done in the name of religion, and that is a tragedy, I think. But I also believe that it doesn't have to be that way. When God is the true leader, and the earthly leaders get their direction from Him, rather than making it up as they go along, or doing what serves their own purposes or makes them popular, etc., then it is good. Your personal relationship with God is essential, and religion should not circumvent that. We have to reason things out for ourselves and take it to God and find out personally what is right and of Him.

[(JD)]

Hmmm what good is a faith in God if it does nothing to help those around you? Without congregating, how can you support each other? How can you learn more about what there is to learn, if you don't go to where someone can teach you? What if what you think you know doesn't fulfill your needs, or isn't correct, how can you find another view to ponder? How can you further your own belief if not with another?

I, myself, follow what I believe to be God's Word, which tells me to "forsake not the assembling of yourselves together" and also gives many reasons for gathering together...to share money, time and talent for the good of all.

[mlyn]

Good topic.

[Rhapsody]

Just wanted to let you know that I understand what you are saying and that I fully lend my support unto YOU..... doing as YOU need.

While I do believe in the Bible - I do not feel that one cannot find GOD if they are not in church.... for the church as we know it is just a building - were as the "Church of GOD" lives with in us all (given to us by the blood of Christ)..... we just need to unlock the door and He will come in and lead us by His SPIRIT.

LoVe,
Rhapsody -

P.S.
I personally have not been emotionally or mentally able to walk into the doors of my church for about 6 years now, and yet I have not lost my way, for Christ allows GOD to live within ME, and I can hear Him if I but only listen.