Does anyone else struggle with the '' all or nothing '' thinking ? I do. I'm a Christian, and I know we aren't supposed to worry, but a lot of my anxiety is what I call '' religious anxiety.'' I wonder if God WANTS me to have '' all or nothing '' thinking. What makes me say that is that scrpiture that says something about being '' hot or cold.'' I'm probably misinterpreting wrong. Any insight into this ? Thanks !

What do you mean by "all or nothing"? Do you mean following all that the Bible teaches? Are you struggling with some aspect of the Bible or your religion? If so, I'd suggest talking with your minister. They can help so much when you're struggling with your thoughts and ideas.

As for me, I had a lot of religious anxiety growing up, mainly because my family didn't attend church. My parents are Christians, but felt like we should make our own choices about religion, so nothing was pushed upon us except that there is a God and all good things come from Him.

I live in the bible belt, so if you don't go to church, you're pretty much ridiculed and people tell you that you're going to Hell. Not a great thing to hear when you're a little kid. When I was a sophomore in high school, I went to a church twice, then was asked (more like forced) to join. So I did. I was scared out of my mind. I did it because they wanted me to, not because I wanted to. After that night, I didn't return to church until I was 28 years old.

Now, I have found a church where I am happy. I have decided my kids will be raised in our church because I don't want them to go through what I did as a kid, the self-doubt, the ridicule. If they join the church will be up to them.

Sorry this was so long!
AnnieG

I know how you feel.
I still struggle with this in my own life but it is getting so much better.
I was always trying to be perfect trying to be the person God wanted me to be, then I would think but I can't be perfect so why even try.
My Dad came over one day and explained to me that
there is nothing I can "do" God has already done everything for me, he told me to quit trying to do something and listen. You have a still small comforting voice inside you that will guide you.
Listen to it and then follow it. If its out of fear then its not from God.
I have also started listening to Joyce Meyers she has put alot of things in perpesctive for me.
I hope this helps you.
Sherra

Hey becbeliever!

Im a Christian too and I am empathetic of some of your anxiety. I tend to misinterpret alot of what the bible says and then worry about it. I misenterpret what some sermon messages say and what people who try and help me say. What's the bible verse about being hot or cold, or the jist of it, maybe I can help you interpret it. I don't think God expects us not to worry, he understands how imperfect we are and definately shows his grace to us, but I think what God wants more than anything is for us to go to Him first, that we depend on Him to take care of all of our needs and to trust Him instead of worrying. He wants us to tell him all of our anxiety so He can hold on to it, he doesn't want us to be so stressed. 1Peter 5:7 "Cast all of your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." I don't think God wants you to have all or nothing thinking as your only thinking, although I have to admit alot of passion can brew from all or nothing thinking. But I think God is all about black, white and grey thinking. There is alot of grey out there that can be very anxiety producing, because we don't like not knowing something but I think the grey areas are the areas God wants us to trust Him most, which can be challenging. One day at a time though! Please let me know what verse you are talking about, I would love to help you. Have a great day!

PSALM 18 ,
Thank you for your reply. Sorry it's taken me so long to respond. The scripture I was referring to is Revelation 3: 15+16 '' I know your deeds, that you are neither hot nor cold.I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm - neither hot nor cold I am about to spit you out of my mouth. ''

quote:

Originally posted by becbeliever:
[qb]Does anyone else struggle with the '' all or nothing '' thinking ? I do. I'm a Christian, and I know we aren't supposed to worry, but a lot of my anxiety is what I call '' religious anxiety.'' I wonder if God WANTS me to have '' all or nothing '' thinking. What makes me say that is that scrpiture that says something about being '' hot or cold.'' I'm probably misinterpreting wrong. Any insight into this ? Thanks ![/qb]

My dearest Bech,

The Scripture you are referring to is speaking to the "angel" at the Church of Laodicea.

The word "Angel" comes from the Greek word "aggelos" which mens a "messenger" or a "Pastor".

As God holds his children accountable (you and I) he holds those who serve his Church and take care of his flock even MORE ACCOUNTABLE. (Pastors)

The particular Scripture you referr to is being addressed to the LEADERS of the Church as being "hot or cold" as they affect the "flock" (you and I).

Keep in mind Bech that God loves us (you) in an untold and immeasureable manner BEYOND comprehension. He will do ALL to keep you for himself and IF you should slip away will stop at NOTHING to retrieve you.
You belong to him eternally, and Nothing, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING will keep him from you INCLUDING spitting out of his mouth those (Pastors-Aggelos) who could affect you and hurt you if they should turn Lukewarm or cold.

It always help Bech, to keep in mind, that you are on a "walk" with God. And when you walk with God he will always let you know when something is wrong, while loving you at the same time.

Think of Peter. Aren;t you glad Peter existed before us? I mean, complete denial? And yet Jesus Loved him, and took him right back.

God Bless

Jimp,

Oh, thank you SO much for your reply. How insightful and true. I think '' you know who '' likes to twist scriptures around to instill fear in us, however NOT looking further into something that doesn't bring peace can also open that door as well. Guess I never really looked into that one. When I read your reply, I was under the impression that you are in ministry ?

quote:

Originally posted by becbeliever:
[qb]Jimp,

Oh, thank you SO much for your reply. How insightful and true. I think '' you know who '' likes to twist scriptures around to instill fear in us, however NOT looking further into something that doesn't bring peace can also open that door as well. Guess I never really looked into that one. When I read your reply, I was under the impression that you are in ministry ?[/qb]

Bech,

I have been in the Ministry of a cell group leader for several years.
Of course recently (last year) when my son was diagnosed with OCD some things became very difficult for us plus there was some changes in Church.
One day I wish to do cell group again but as of now God has me helping my son the best I can.