Romans10910

That surprisingly sounds like me lol I did a lot of wierd stuff like that when i was little

Ryan :) her email is rcj8@myway.com and she said to give you her phone number but i would do that over a message

Well stated.

Well, we do have freedom of will and God was very specific in giving it to us. We are not predestined to anything. God knows what is going to happen already but does not decide what you do. Again it all has to do with what is available (wayism).

Your idea of God seems to be very transcendent, which would fit the idea that NOTHING could be known of God since we are merely human beings (which would follow after Islam), but so much is revealed in the word about God and his love for man. "And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments" (1 John 2:3)

I think the problem is looking at expectations as arrogance. Not to get offensive, that's not my intention, but it seems like you're stereotyping all of believing as imposing a persons will over God's. God's going to do what God's going to do. If your prayers line up according to what He is willing and able to do, why wouldn't He provide for you. I think that's the problem in this conversation; one must know what is available and ask and expect. Yes, sacrifices must be made at times but they must be made with a whole heart or they are worthless, it is not through works that we are saved but grace and grace alone. Also, as for monks and nuns, sincerity does not guarantee truth. Seclusion from the world does not help anyone, we should not be of this world but we sure do live in it and have to deal with it on a daily basis in order to survive.

Does God's will say I cannot have what I am praying for? Knowing what is available is 95% of the "equation." As God's children (I've never seen the term "mere mortal" used in the word) we should be able to ask our Father for what is available and expect or believe He will deliver. Also, the phrase "I'll do my best, God will do the rest" fits very well here. When you pray and believe for something to come to pass you must take actions in the physical realm that will enable the results intended.

I can tell you anything you want to know being a son and all...

did anyone know Renee Joseph or at the time Renee Conti? :blink: