I can just see my family & friends rolling their eyes at this post but that is exactly why I’m writing it. To prove that I’m at least trying to find faith.
So, it was suggested by some friends of mine that I give “The Case for Christ” a read. A book about a journalist who absolutely didn’t believe in Jesus, etc and set out to investigate and prove that he didn’t/doesn’t exist.
It was a 21mth long investigation and while I don’t know the outcome, I can assume. You see, I’m a lot like the person that wrote this book. I’m one of those that doesn’t believe for the most part. I truly do want to believe but having experienced several major bad things in my life, my mom’s life, in other’s lives…it’s hard for me. I’m one of those that says, “If there’s a God, then why does all this bad happen?”, “Why did he take such a good person?”. Yep, that’s me.
So anyways, I’m on page 30 of the book and I love it. It’s the student version and easy to understand and it’s “real”. Meaning, it’s not preaching to me or telling me what I SHOULD believe, it’s giving me both sides of the story and allowing me to make my own assumptions and conclusions.
It is true that the older you get, the more you start looking for faith? I would love to hear from you…….except, no preaching please. It makes me uncomfortable to be honest.
P.S. The last book I read was “The Purpose Driven Life“. Enjoyed it a great deal.
P.P.S. Get your free sample of Fruit Roll Ups because you never know when you’re toddler will have a tantrum and this will save the day.
UPDATE: I was just informed by Lindsay of the 7 part documentary! I’ll be watching.
Alyssa says
As you know Lori, I am a Christian and I am not one to hide that fact, I am glad you’re reading this book as I know it is a good one. Blessings to you as you find your journey of faith.
Alyssas last blog post..It Gives Me Hope
Lacie says
When you’re done reading The Case for Christ….how about this one http://www.amazon.com/When-Things-Happen-Good-People/dp/0380603926
Have a blessed day,
Lacie
Lacies last blog post..Redfish Kids: Clothing for the Courageous
Melissa says
Lori I think its great that you are being open and checking out all avenues. Let us know how the book is, I have never heard of it. I don’t know if its the older we get but maybe because we are getting to experience more things that life puts our way. I am a Christian and I do believe in God. If you ever have any questions I would be happy to TRY and answer them. I am not a pushy person and I don’t believe in pushing my faith on someone. I try to let the holy spirit do his job. If I do not have the answer I will be honest with ya LOL
I wish you luck in your journey! I’m here if you need me :)
P.S. What a great fried to suggest that book!
Melissas last blog post..New $500 Walmart GC winner
Marlo says
Hey Lori, I, too, commend you for seeking through reading. I was an unbeliever for MANY years and for many of the same reasons you listed in your post so I do understand your perspective. Over a period of years as a seeker I gained a real understanding as to why horrible things happened in my life and why God was not the source but instead the free will choice we have all been given. I loved the Purpose Driven Life too! Great post, Lori. Make it a great day!!
Marlos last blog post..WOW I am Honored! LOL :)
Willow says
Hi Lori. Haven’t read the book but it sounds like it’s worth a read — hurray, another to add to my list! Thank you very much! ;-)
I think that, yes, the older you get the more you have a tendency to turn toward or look for faith. I sort of think it’s not so much a matter of age as it is of life experiences, as Melissa said. After all, when we’re 20, we’re pretty sure we can rule the world.
I was saved at 12 and I’ll be honest and tell you that I had an on-and-off relationship with God til I hit about 20 and then I pushed Christianity, God, church, the whole deal to the side. In the early part of this year, after the most horrific few months of my life, I rediscovered my faith and my Christian walk and I’m happier for it. I’ll never walk away again even though I might struggle from time to time. I hope you don’t find that preachy; it’s just a statement of fact. I’m available if you have any questions.
Willows last blog post..Thankful Thursday – Random
Greta says
I recommend “God Is Not Great” as a counterpoint to that book. Good luck in your search!
kpmomma says
I am exactly the opposite. I grew up in the Mormon Church and in my late teens I wanted to know more about the history of the founders and found a lot of disturbing information about them. I left that church and was led to non-denominational Christianity. I considered myself a born again Christian for many years after that and then married a Jehova’s Witness. He showed me how inconsistent mainstream Christianity is and how they pick and choose what they want to take seriously. I liked the JW’s however they claim that their interpretations are the truth yet they’ve been wrong in their claims before.
Sooo…. I’ve concluded that I am just going to call myself agnostic and call it a day. There are too many beliefs and too many off springs of those beliefs and they all claim to be the only truth. Until God pops out of the sky, sits me down and maps it all out for me I will just shrug my shoulders and say, “I dunno!”
Good luck in your search. I really hope you find what you are looking for. :)
kpmommas last blog post..Free Coffee is Always Good!
ClassyMommy says
Lori – the more i get to know you the more i realize or think that we have many things in common. this sounds like a perfect read for me. i’m putting my xmas list together for mike – think it is in store? xo colleen
ClassyMommys last blog post..Win the Prima Princessa Presents Swan Lake dvd!
Jennifer says
Hi Lori,
Lori this a great book. I read this book about 2 years ago and it lays out the case in a way that is not emotional, more scientific and facts. One of the most interesting things about this book is you learn that there are over 300 prophecies in the old testament that the messiah had to fulfill and Christ was able to fulfill all of them, right down to the timing. Mind Blowing!!!
I have had my struggles with faith and churches throughout my whole life. I would say from my own experience to try to focus on learning and building a relationship with Christ and not to focus on other’s who are Christians and how they live their life’s. I think it can be overwhelming to look to others and compare your life with theirs. Their journey is not your journey and they are only human. I do feel sometimes many Christians and churches have the mentality of keeping up with the “Joneses” or who is more Godly, and that can be overwhelming to someone trying to learn about God and trying to build a relationship with him.
Although I have believed in Christ since I was 9, I went through a similar journey 2 years ago. I turned inward, read the bible(John, Ephesians, Galatians,Romans are great chapters to read in the bible if you are starting off) Read Case for Christ, and also listen to a lot of bible studies from a guy name Dennis McCallum from xenos christian fellowship. He explains the bible well and it is logical, with again it not being over dramatic or emotional. Here is the website: http://www.xenos.org/teachings/index.htm. You can listen to them online or burn them to a Cd. He has a great bible study on the book of Romans that was pretty life changing for me: http://www.xenos.org/teachings/nt/romans/index.htm. I also like Rick Warren. I think he is very real and his message is very relevant for our time. I also really enjoyed the Christian group Casting Crowns (They have a great song called “does anyone hear her.”) K Love is also a great radio station to listen to in the car, especially if you are having a down day. The music is very uplifting, contemporary, and not preachy.
The biggest question for me was if Christ is real, why did he die and what does it mean for my life? At the end of the day if you believe in Christ, the most important thing in this world will not be what church you go to, but what your relationship is like with him. Sorry if this email is a little touching or emotional. I just went to go see the Glenn Beck Live Show, the Christmas Sweater, based on the book he wrote, in the movie theater last night and it has me doing a lot of reflecting today:)
Jennifer:)
Kat says
Lori,
As you may recall about me, I am an atheist and I am much older than you. No, I haven’t gone searching for faith or a god as I get older either.
I applaud you wanting to look more into it, but I am going to ask that you be careful.
People will offer you all kinds of help, offer to answer those questions for you, but they must admit that they cannot.
The questions can only be answered by a god, no one knows, nor can they claim to know, why a god does anything at all, good or bad, and that as human beings with only a single book as proof of a god, that they cannot know, cannot claim to know, if a god does anything at all.
May I suggest alternate reading?
The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins. Greta’s choice for alternate reading is excellent too.
I really hope that I didn’t come off as “preachy”, but I am very wary of anyone who says they can answer or try to answer, the questions only a god can answer.
Kats last blog post..Horton Hears a Who! (2008)
Jessica says
Lori,
I am on the same journey as well right now…exploring my faith and figuring it all out.
Let’s compare notes!
Jessicas last blog post..Better Budgeting: Day 2 of 15 Days of New Years Resolutions
Shawna says
Hi, Lori! You are brave for putting yourself out there on this.
I’ve heard of this book but haven’t read it. I do believe Jesus is my Savior, and I like to be studied up so that I can back that up intelligently if questioned.
I’d like to recommend a one hour show that I caught while flipping channels one night. I only caught about the last hour, and it was riveting. I am definitely going to watch it again. I think it airs on December 23rd. It is called “The Star of Bethlehem.” (It is not a movie!) To me, it helped solidify that God is there, and that He cares about each of us.
I hope you have a great day!
Shawnas last blog post..Maybe Next Weekend Will Be Better
corrin says
After attending Catholic school for 8 years, my belief in god is fleeting, to say the least. I’m very interested in the church from a business and historical perspective, but from a faith perspective it doesn’t offer much for me.
That being said, if someone is looking for faith, happiness, love, whatever it is, I don’t think a book can help them find that.
Jennifer Connors says
In the words of Liz Lemon, 30 Rock, “I believe whatever Oprah tells me to!”
Not really. (wink) Having been raised in a very strict religious environment, I found at an early age that my relationship with God was very personal to me and did not necessarily require the teachings of a church. With that being said, I believe it is human nature to seek out our spiritual side – even though some do not do it at the same time, we all eventually do it.
This book sounds like a good read! Thanks for sharing this, I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this journey!
Peter says
Obviously, from the name of my blog, I have a certain viewpoint about faith. I am a Christian, and not ashamed to say it.
I think it really is a shame that so often people take a dim view of faith because of imperfect people who are members of that faith. (for example pedophile priests). Unfortunately faith is practiced by the imperfect, and because of that many people will be turned off to faith because they get the wrong impression of it from someone who isn’t actually practicing their faith.
Good luck on reading this book, I’ve read it and its pretty good. God bless!
Peters last blog post..5 Keys To Overcoming The Urge To Splurge
The Bargain Shopper Lady says
Your heart is precious! I know you’ll find the right answer and I’ll be checking back for a future post from you!
~The Bargain Shopper Lady
The Bargain Shopper Ladys last blog post..Crocs for $7.95
Christine says
I am so proud of you for being so bold about your journey… Glad you are enjoying this book. :)
HUGS!
Christines last blog post..Gift It For Free (A Digital Camera Giveaway!)
WomenGunOwner says
You sound like an awesome lady. Good luck and God Bless you in your findings.
p.s. May I add….Merry Merry Christmas..
Sensuous Wife says
Love has a way of finding us. I hope you find yourself being loved as you explore spirituality. For me, it’s all about letting myself be loved. Everything else flows out of that. I’m more of a mystic than an apologist, meaning that making a case for anything is not my style. If you feel like trying a more rounded-corner point of view for the issues you’re pondering, I suggest The Shack. http://www.theshackbook.com It’s a beautiful story of a man experiencing the love of God in the midst of pondering the same issues you’re pondering.
Nice to meet you. I have a tremendous appreciation for you sharing your heart on your blog like you did.
From one wife to another, SW
Sensuous Wifes last blog post..Spirit in the Senses
Janice (5 Minutes for Mom) says
I LOVE The Case For Christ. I read the first edition of it years ago and refereed to it in often in my former work with Youth For Christ.
Good for you for spending time investigating what you believe!
If you ever want to chat and debate the tough questions feel free to give me a call. That was my full time job at one point in my life. I promise – I try very hard not to “preach” but to listen, empathize and discuss. After a lifetime of faith, I still have fears, doubts, frustrations and questions. That is part of the human experience I think.
Janice (5 Minutes for Mom)s last blog post..5 Minutes for Fitness: Deck of cards
Andrea says
It seems like as time goes on we always question what our purpose is, and if we are needed. I think it’s great that you are going out there and gaining knowlege. It’s really important to know things for yourself.
You will have to let us know how the book goes!!
Andreas last blog post..Pregnant Mares
Amydeanne says
i’m curious about your review on the book! my husband got a copy of it last year and i’ve get to get to read it.
Amydeannes last blog post..Debutantes and Mystery – do they go together?
chrystal says
Well good for you! I’m glad you’re giving it a shot!
I believe even Christians who are devout believers even some times question different things. I believe whole heartedly. Being brought up in the church, I just believe, but I feel it in my heart too.
Do I attend church? Not really, but I’m a believer who feels it’s more important for me to do what I should be doing 24/7 and not that I go to a church. My church family is my family and friends.
Believing takes a lot of baggage off my shoulders and let’s me put it to someone else. I hope you find that resolve for your sanity!
Love ya girl!
carole@hippostoes says
I’d love to know what you think of the book when you’re done. I can totally relate to you and your feelings about religion. I was raised Catholic, and went to church every Sunday until I was 34! Even through grad school I still went every Sunday. My husband was also raised Catholic and went to Catholic school until his high school graduation. I guess we’re the opposite of most older people, the older we get the more we are losing faith. For many reasons that I won’t bore you with, I have problems with organized religion and the hypocrisy that I see every day, and the things I see people do and say in the name of religion and Christianity makes my blood boil. Now that we have an almost two year old I’m really struggling with what to teach him. Thanks for bringing this up :)
Charla says
Lori, I’m thrilled for you because you are on such an awesome journey of faith. Jesus is not only my Savior, but He’s also my best friend. Developing a close relationship with God and with Jesus, as you would say, “Rawks!” :)
Here are two awesome videos from the “How Great is our God” with Loui Giglio and Chris Tomlin. It’s from a scientific view and it’s amazing!
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_82lZ2PpYQE&NR=1
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e4zgJXPpI4
Charlas last blog post..Personal Injury Lawyer
Deb says
Sounds like me.. what did you learn from the Purpose Driven life.. should i read that one or this one…???
Debs last blog post..Trip on Train to Chicago with Kyong Ji from South Korea
sue Thompson says
I say good for you for seeking the truth by gathering all the information out there. That is what I did too. I wanted my decision to be an educated one and for it to be a personal decision and not because it was what I was born into or was told I should believe.
I just wanted to offer an ear or if you had any questions I would be glad to help find the answers (or at least try). I used to work with Lee (at the same church), not directly, and he really IS what he seems to be. Great man of great character and a truth seeker too.
Anyway, no preachin’ here, don’t have all the answers but have been on the same journey (with what sounds to be similar doubts and maybe questions). Lost my Dad when I was 16, two babies etc, hard times. Have come out the other side and doing very well! :-) Just wanted to put the offer out there.
Blessings to you and Merry Christmas too!
Sue
marklovessue@numail.org
Organizing Mommy says
Love a Case for Christ!! We just saw the video–great stuff! Cool blog.
Organizing Mommys last blog post..I finally decided on the shoes!
Mrs. Mecomber says
I read The Case for Faith and The Case for Christ, read it with my kids. Very good books, and I think Strobel answers a lot of very good questions. The Real Jesus is also another good book by Strobel, along the same lines.
I think Christianity gets a really bad rap in modern culture. As I study history, especially early American history, I’m finding out that a LOT of very very smart people had hashed through the Christian religion and the Bible and found it to be true (like Alexander Hamilton, George Washington, Charles Finney, Daniel Webster, Noah Webster, etc).
Glad to see you’re reading the book. I look forward to reading more about what you find!
Mrs. Mecombers last blog post..The Art of Geocaching
Christine says
I too am exploring at age 47. I was “born” Catholic but not raised as such. I was confirmed in 2007 and haven’t been back. It was more of an experience/journey of learning that what I thought of the Catholic church wasn’t what it truely was and to finish something that hadn’t been.
I have dabbled in paganism, spiritualtiy, various beliefs, various different christian beliefs and find them all lacking and unbelievable. To me it is like trying to believe some fantastic fairy tale.
How I found you was a search on “Cowboys for Christ”. Years ago I met a woman in CFC and she invited me on a trail ride. It was the most fantastic fun I had ever had. What I am searching for is that again. Friendship, openness, helping hand without expecting some sort of payment, a giving heart, someone to understand, to talk to and actually felt heard and understood.
Talking to an invisible man just ain’t doing it for me. But that is where I am at right now. I feel there is a fence between me and “him” and I just cannot see over it.
BillE says
Try praying to this “invisible man” for revelation and for faith. Read the scriptures (I am amazed that most believers cannot answer simple questions about the scripture. It is no surprise then that non-believers know less about the Word of God).
Sometimes you have to start small. Great things don’t often happen overnight. If you honestly “believe”, even if that belief is tiny, then hand it over to God and let him do the rest. You can do nothing by yourself.
God bless you.
.-= BillE´s last blog ..Scientists Who Believe In God =-.
BillE says
I’ve always thought that one must find faith “in their own time” because you can’t force your own beliefs on anyone… it just doesn’t work that way. I enjoy talking about my faith to believers and to non-believers if they are interested. I do so in a casual, conversational way. I tell what I believe and leave it up to the other person to tell me what they believe.
My faith in God has grown considerably through prayer and reading of the scripture. If you do find that you believe, then you must ask God to reveal the scripture to you. That is a key to faith and it is very individualistic. God gives us different gifts– gifts of faith, of knowledge, of teaching. But, his greatest gift was his Son, Jesus Christ who died so that we might live.
God bless you.
.-= BillE´s last blog ..Scientists Who Believe In God =-.