Belief Issues

[prisonchaplain]

It is so normal to question faith in college. Intersting that you are at a private Christian college. Some of them are colleges that happen to have a Christian heritage, and others are Christian institutions that happen to offer college degrees. In any case, I'd encourage you to explore your doubts, read both faith-filled writings, and those who are skeptical, continue to pray...above all, just keep seeking God. Scriptures of all major religions include the promise that those who seek God with a sincere heart will find him. This may be a gut-wrenching, soul-stretching time--but it can also be the time when your faith becomes truly yours. Blessings on the journey!

[Dove]

Thank you for sharing your doubts, fears and feelings with us. I hope these threads are helpful to you.

I remember when I was just out of high school, I went back east to Long Island, NY, and was a nanny for a period of time. Everything was new and different, I was in such a different culture. It was so difficult spiritually! I was lost and, as I look back on it now, so insecure.

I remember coming to feel closer to the Saviour there in a poignant, very bittersweet way. I learned some critical principals during those times I felt so alone and far away from home.

I remember talking to another girl one night at a church activity. She shared with me some of her personal experiences of the Saviour. That was such a blessing for me. I felt He was showing up for me in those moments.

Another thing I would suggest is going to your priesthood leaders/R.S. leaders for love and support. Build a network of strong LDS friends who would be willing to help bear your burdens and succor you in your doubts and fears right now.

I would recommend coming to love yourself more through the Spirit. It may be helpful to know of how deeply you are valued and found of worth in our Heavenly Father's eyes. Pray for guidance, I think a priesthood blessing would be wonderful for you at this time. Go easy on yourself, and try to "go with the flow" as far as feeling the Spirit goes. He'll "show up" for you in His time period, which I believe will be the time in your best interest, and the best for your eternal welfare.

I turned 40 this past year (yess, dearie, I am getting soo old and have so much experience to share with you, LOL) and have gone through so many trials and so much tribulation in my life. I know God lives and loves me, and that He is very aware of me and my particular circumstances. He has "shown up" in spades for me throughout my life, even for all the hardship I've experienced. He knows me perfectly, and I can't help but believe that He knows the same about you. I know He loves you, too!

Like I said, try not to be hard on yourself in this time, give yourself a break and some slack. Heavenly Father knows of even our smallest efforts to draw nearer to Him, and I believe He is very pleased with your continued efforts to pray and read the scriptures. Don't be shy to reach out to others for love and support until you can identify the feelings of the Spirit. I believe that if you continue faithful, you will be answered in a very loving, personalized way.

Best of wishes to you. I will send out my faith and prayers for you.

Dove