Should a Christian's life be "a certain way"?

[schnauzer]

For example, should a Christian live all day for Christ, completely enslaved to others, without even a moment for themselves or to pursue any personal hobby they desire?
Why does the thought cross my mind that God enslaves and demands too many things? Is that true, or am I getting off topic?
Sometimes I think about the people who participate in events every day, for example, charity events or evangelization events, and I wonder why I don't enjoy these events or being with my brothers and sisters, but rather see it as torturous and enslaving work, rather than pleasure...
Is this something I should be concerned about?
What should a Christian's life be like? Does it have to be sacrificial and suffering like Jesus's, or is the idea that only Christians work and rest on their days off valid?
Do we have to be evangelizing all day?
Does God want us to have some time for ourselves?
Why do I have the idea that God is a torturing ogre?
I just want to live a life of basic responsibilities. That is, I want to learn from Jesus and apply his teachings to my life and please him, but I also want time for myself...
For example, some brothers and sisters say, "I want Jesus to find me serving when he returns." My question is... why? What would happen if God found them doing something else? (Something that isn't sinful, of course).
Why do they worry so much about God finding them serving when he returns? That's just an example.

 

[timothyu]

Jesus only asked four main things of us. To put God's will ahead of our own. To love all, including enemies, as self. To repent of the backwards self-serving ways of man. To spread the good news, that being His Gospel of the Kingdom. God will take care of His business, we are to tend to ours. Don't confuse the demands of human religion with the will of God.

 

[timothyu]

I don't know "how" a Christian "should" act. At the same time from what I've seen is that a person who has truly been transformed in Christ will, every where they go, radiate a creative, compassionate, life-giving kind of energy.

True enough. They should have realized that the only divisiveness they practice is between the world of man and the Kingdom of God. There should be no division over human matters, but instead realization that some humans are further advanced than other in learning the wisdom of loving all as self over that of self-interest. Of course neither politics, media or even most churches are proficient at promoting repentance of self-interest.

 

[schnauzer]

Is that all? If I do those things, can I rest easy? I need peace.
Thank you.

Jesus only asked four main things of us. To put God's will ahead of our own. To love all, including enemies, as self. To repent of the backwards self-serving ways of man. To spread the good news, that being His Gospel of the Kingdom. God will take care of His business, we are to tend to ours. Don't confuse the demands of human religion with the will of God.

 

[timothyu]

Jesus said his load would be light. Religions seek us out and demand we sell our souls to their varying demands. Consider that Jesus said he was the way, while there are over 10,000 denominations demanding our attention.

 

[timothyu]

Step back and catch your breath. There is a reason even man allows us 24 hours to back out of pressured human contracts. Especially ones that seem sooo complicated we are told we need a middleman to interpret. As you saw, Jesus' four commands could be followed by a child.

 

[schnauzer]

Step back and catch your breath. There is a reason even man allows us 24 hours to back out of pressured human contracts. Especially ones that seem sooo complicated we are told we need a middleman to interpret. As you saw, Jesus' four commands could be followed by a child.

I assure you I'm not bound by any religion. I impose these self-imposed laws on myself; I am myself...
Thank you

 

[FreeinChrist]

ADVISOR HAT


This thread was moved from Ethics & Morality so it is in a Christian only forum. ​

 

[ozso]

Is that all? If I do those things, can I rest easy? I need peace.
Thank you.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:29

 

[contratodo]

"mind your own business, work with your own hands" 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

When Jesus sent the apostles out two by two, what did He say?
"Greet everyone you meet, and ask them if they have any problems and then try to solve them"
Is that what He said? No, He said:
"Don't greet anyone along the way...
If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet"
Luke 10:4-6 Matthew 10:11-14

When the lame man asked Peter for money, did Peter go and get some money to give to him?
No, he said, I don't have money, but what I have I give you, in the name of Jesus Christ rise up and walk.

Perilous times have come, for men have become lovers of their own selves,
proud, blasphemous, without natural affection... despising those that are good.
Leading captive silly women who are laden with sin, led away by diverse lusts.

There is reason therefore to be really separate from the world, in the world but not of the world.
Our ultimate goal with whatever we do should be for the Lord.

Envision yourself high up in the air on a white horse, immortal, able to feel and control every atom of your body.
Looking down, a vast army is gathered to try to fight the army you are in.
The Lord is in front, and you hear His voice giving you a task to do as part of the army.
You realize which line your in, perhaps it's Ezekiel's line or David's or another of Israel,
or perhaps your even in one of the angelic lines, or perhaps even at the front of your own line.
Each of us will have rank, and we will come down with the Lord, "to do doom upon all flesh." Jude 1:14-15
"To execute the vengeance written, this honor have all the saints." Psalm 149:9
This is the prize to look forward to, you don't die, you wake up on a horse.
With that in mind, this great prize to be had, we should live every moment for Christ.
True freedom and enjoyment is then, not now.

Living for Christ is easy, the simplest outline is Luke chapter six.
"His commands are not grievous" 1 John 5:3, John is talking about the commands/doctrine of Christ. ( 2 John 1:9-11, Matthew 7:28 )
The good news is that we need only follow Christ.

 

[Jermayn]

For example, should a Christian live all day for Christ, completely enslaved to others, without even a moment for themselves or to pursue any personal hobby they desire?
Why does the thought cross my mind that God enslaves and demands too many things? Is that true, or am I getting off topic?
Sometimes I think about the people who participate in events every day, for example, charity events or evangelization events, and I wonder why I don't enjoy these events or being with my brothers and sisters, but rather see it as torturous and enslaving work, rather than pleasure...
Is this something I should be concerned about?
What should a Christian's life be like? Does it have to be sacrificial and suffering like Jesus's, or is the idea that only Christians work and rest on their days off valid?
Do we have to be evangelizing all day?
Does God want us to have some time for ourselves?
Why do I have the idea that God is a torturing ogre?
I just want to live a life of basic responsibilities. That is, I want to learn from Jesus and apply his teachings to my life and please him, but I also want time for myself...
For example, some brothers and sisters say, "I want Jesus to find me serving when he returns." My question is... why? What would happen if God found them doing something else? (Something that isn't sinful, of course).
Why do they worry so much about God finding them serving when he returns? That's just an example.

Your view is definitely something to reflect on, and I say that not to criticize you, but to encourage growth. There are two main concerns that come to mind.

First, there’s a real danger of falling into a works-based mindset, the idea that salvation depends on Jesus plus constant performance. But Scripture is clear: salvation is by grace through faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8–9). Good works are the evidence of a living faith, not the source of it. We serve because we love Him, not to earn His love.

Second, your feelings toward God and the Church may be part of your growing pains in spiritual maturity. Honestly, the fact that you’re wrestling with this shows that you’re drawing closer to God. People who aren’t growing spiritually don’t usually stop to ask these kinds of questions.

To answer your main concern: No, God does not expect you to evangelize 24/7 in the sense of street preaching or public ministry. Even those called to full-time ministry are commanded to rest. After all, God Himself rested and gave us the Sabbath as a gift, not a burden. I think the book of Ecclesiastes would speak to you right now. It reminds us to find joy in the things we do, as long as they’re not sinful, and to recognize them as God’s gifts. Colossians 3:23 also encourages us: “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as for the Lord.”

That means you can glorify God while doing what you love. For example, think of someone at work who is always complaining and doing the bare minimum, yet claims to be a Christian. Would that draw you closer to Christ? Now imagine someone who works diligently, encourages others, and carries peace into the room. That’s silent evangelism, living in a way that reflects Jesus without preaching a word.

To wrap this up: God is not a cold taskmaster demanding you sacrifice your joy. He’s a loving Father who wants to shape you into someone who knows Him deeply and reflects His heart. Right now, you’re in the perfect place, asking honest questions, seeking feedback, and opening yourself to growth. It’s not always easy, but as your relationship with Him deepens, you’ll start to see that even difficult seasons can be filled with peace and purpose.

You’re not failing, you’re learning. Keep going.

 

[schnauzer]

Your view is definitely something to reflect on, and I say that not to criticize you, but to encourage growth. There are two main concerns that come to mind.

First, there’s a real danger of falling into a works-based mindset, the idea that salvation depends on Jesus plus constant performance. But Scripture is clear: salvation is by grace through faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8–9). Good works are the evidence of a living faith, not the source of it. We serve because we love Him, not to earn His love.

Second, your feelings toward God and the Church may be part of your growing pains in spiritual maturity. Honestly, the fact that you’re wrestling with this shows that you’re drawing closer to God. People who aren’t growing spiritually don’t usually stop to ask these kinds of questions.

To answer your main concern: No, God does not expect you to evangelize 24/7 in the sense of street preaching or public ministry. Even those called to full-time ministry are commanded to rest. After all, God Himself rested and gave us the Sabbath as a gift, not a burden. I think the book of Ecclesiastes would speak to you right now. It reminds us to find joy in the things we do, as long as they’re not sinful, and to recognize them as God’s gifts. Colossians 3:23 also encourages us: “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as for the Lord.”

That means you can glorify God while doing what you love. For example, think of someone at work who is always complaining and doing the bare minimum, yet claims to be a Christian. Would that draw you closer to Christ? Now imagine someone who works diligently, encourages others, and carries peace into the room. That’s silent evangelism, living in a way that reflects Jesus without preaching a word.

To wrap this up: God is not a cold taskmaster demanding you sacrifice your joy. He’s a loving Father who wants to shape you into someone who knows Him deeply and reflects His heart. Right now, you’re in the perfect place, asking honest questions, seeking feedback, and opening yourself to growth. It’s not always easy, but as your relationship with Him deepens, you’ll start to see that even difficult seasons can be filled with peace and purpose.

You’re not failing, you’re learning. Keep going.

You're quite right about the two central ideas you developed. The problem is that for the past two months, I've had serious doubts about the existence of Jesus, because of the internet.
I think the source of my "woes" comes from there. If I were completely certain that Jesus existed, I would have joy and peace, as I had for a long time, but I'm doubting Jesus.
Right now, I need there to be compelling historical evidence of Jesus' existence... I'm not entirely convinced by having to believe by faith alone. I mean, yes, I consider it correct, but as long as there's solid historical evidence...
How can I eradicate this evil that separates me from God?
Thank you.

 

[Jermayn]

You're quite right about the two central ideas you developed. The problem is that for the past two months, I've had serious doubts about the existence of Jesus, because of the internet.
I think the source of my "woes" comes from there. If I were completely certain that Jesus existed, I would have joy and peace, as I had for a long time, but I'm doubting Jesus.
Right now, I need there to be compelling historical evidence of Jesus' existence... I'm not entirely convinced by having to believe by faith alone. I mean, yes, I consider it correct, but as long as there's solid historical evidence...
How can I eradicate this evil that separates me from God?
Thank you.

There are several extra-biblical accounts of Jesus' existence, even from non-believers. I'll post a link that has several of them, or you can just google "extra-biblical proof of Jesus" if you like.

Here’s the historical evidence from non-Christian sources that Jesus lived and died

A wealth of written evidence exists to prove Christianity is not based on a fairy tale.

aleteia.org

 

[schnauzer]

There are several extra-biblical accounts of Jesus' existence, even from non-believers. I'll post a link that has several of them, or you can just google "extra-biblical proof of Jesus" if you like.

Here’s the historical evidence from non-Christian sources that Jesus lived and died

A wealth of written evidence exists to prove Christianity is not based on a fairy tale.

aleteia.org

I've read those arguments before... but it's not enough for me... I'm angry with God because I'm not happy... I lost my peace and joy several months ago... things happened that I didn't think would happen... my life fell apart little by little... I need support.
God bless you all. Thank you for helping me.

 

[timothyu]

Life is meant to suck as we learn there are repercussions for the self-centred ways of mankind. We were cast from the Garden to learn why we in pursuing 'self' rather than 'other' is the reason for all woes, be it done to us or by us. His will be done, not ours as we are incapable of controlling the knowledge we stole.

This is the meaning of the Church Jesus said would be built. It is not a building or an institution with followers, but caring for all which is caring for God. Church is a simple giving, yet a worldly unrewarding way of life. Were the institutions to teach this, the majority of the pews would be empty (and not because
the people went out to follow this). But it is the way of the Kingdom. There is no place for self, and that can be painful at times. We have to give up, to let go of control in our lives and of the lives of others. To be content with God.

 

[schnauzer]

Your view is definitely something to reflect on, and I say that not to criticize you, but to encourage growth. There are two main concerns that come to mind.

First, there’s a real danger of falling into a works-based mindset, the idea that salvation depends on Jesus plus constant performance. But Scripture is clear: salvation is by grace through faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8–9). Good works are the evidence of a living faith, not the source of it. We serve because we love Him, not to earn His love.

Second, your feelings toward God and the Church may be part of your growing pains in spiritual maturity. Honestly, the fact that you’re wrestling with this shows that you’re drawing closer to God. People who aren’t growing spiritually don’t usually stop to ask these kinds of questions.

To answer your main concern: No, God does not expect you to evangelize 24/7 in the sense of street preaching or public ministry. Even those called to full-time ministry are commanded to rest. After all, God Himself rested and gave us the Sabbath as a gift, not a burden. I think the book of Ecclesiastes would speak to you right now. It reminds us to find joy in the things we do, as long as they’re not sinful, and to recognize them as God’s gifts. Colossians 3:23 also encourages us: “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as for the Lord.”

That means you can glorify God while doing what you love. For example, think of someone at work who is always complaining and doing the bare minimum, yet claims to be a Christian. Would that draw you closer to Christ? Now imagine someone who works diligently, encourages others, and carries peace into the room. That’s silent evangelism, living in a way that reflects Jesus without preaching a word.

To wrap this up: God is not a cold taskmaster demanding you sacrifice your joy. He’s a loving Father who wants to shape you into someone who knows Him deeply and reflects His heart. Right now, you’re in the perfect place, asking honest questions, seeking feedback, and opening yourself to growth. It’s not always easy, but as your relationship with Him deepens, you’ll start to see that even difficult seasons can be filled with peace and purpose.

You’re not failing, you’re learning. Keep going.

About faith and salvation... if I die right now without faith... will I go to hell?

 

[Jermayn]

I've read those arguments before... but it's not enough for me... I'm angry with God because I'm not happy... I lost my peace and joy several months ago... things happened that I didn't think would happen... my life fell apart little by little... I need support.
God bless you all. Thank you for helping me.

You asked for historical evidence and that, along with the Bible itself, is about as good as you're going to get in terms of proving Jesus existed. I'm sorry to hear you are going through troubled times and that you are angry with God. This isn't an uncommon place to be for believers in their walk with God, so you need to know you are not alone.

To properly offer guidance I would need to know more about your situation, which you may or may not want to share on the internet. Your best option would be to talk to your pastor or a local Christian counselor. Not trying to turn you away, feel free to post here or DM me with details and I'll gladly help, but know it will be a slower process than in person.

My advice: God needs to be the source of happiness and joy in your life. In your next post you asked:

About faith and salvation... if I die right now without faith... will I go to hell?

First of all, have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Based on what I've read, I am assuming the answer to that is yes.

The Bible says we are saved by grace through what? Faith. So, the short answer to your question is yes. As scary of a thought as that is, the fact you are here, asking questions, and seem very concerned about your relationship with God shows that you have at least a little faith left, but you are at a crossroads right now.

Jesus taught, using the parable of the Sower, about 4 types of people who were at different points spiritually. He said one of those people were like rocky soil where the seed, which represented the Gospel, was accepted and sprung up quickly, but when the sun came out and the heat beat down on the newly sprouted tree, it withered away because the rocky soil had caused it to have shallow roots, meaning this person did not have a strong enough foundation to withstand hard times when they inevitably came.

I'm going to give you my honest opinion based solely on what you've shared with us so far, I believe this is where you are at, but it's not where it has to end. Not one believer was born with a soft heart that was ready and willing to accept God's word. The Holy Spirit had to work the ground, just like a farmer has to till the soil before he plants his crop, before any of us had any hope of growing a faith that would produce good fruit.

God can get rid of all the rocks and weeds that are threatening to derail your faith and cause you to grow roots that will withstand any battle you may face. Re-prioritize your life and make God number 1. Get into his word and spend time in prayer with him. Really seek him out. I'm not going to promise you that nothing bad will ever happen to you again, nor will I promise that it will reverse whatever has already happened to you. But I will promise you that when the storm comes and you feel the flood waters beating against the side of your house, it will stand because it is built upon the rock that is Jesus Christ.

God sees you; he hasn't abandoned you, and you're not too far gone for him to reach you. I will be praying for you and am here to help you through this.

 

[stevevw]

For example, should a Christian live all day for Christ, completely enslaved to others, without even a moment for themselves or to pursue any personal hobby they desire?
Why does the thought cross my mind that God enslaves and demands too many things? Is that true, or am I getting off topic?
Sometimes I think about the people who participate in events every day, for example, charity events or evangelization events, and I wonder why I don't enjoy these events or being with my brothers and sisters, but rather see it as torturous and enslaving work, rather than pleasure...
Is this something I should be concerned about?
What should a Christian's life be like? Does it have to be sacrificial and suffering like Jesus's, or is the idea that only Christians work and rest on their days off valid?
Do we have to be evangelizing all day?
Does God want us to have some time for ourselves?
Why do I have the idea that God is a torturing ogre?
I just want to live a life of basic responsibilities. That is, I want to learn from Jesus and apply his teachings to my life and please him, but I also want time for myself...
For example, some brothers and sisters say, "I want Jesus to find me serving when he returns." My question is... why? What would happen if God found them doing something else? (Something that isn't sinful, of course).
Why do they worry so much about God finding them serving when he returns? That's just an example.

Yes as you go on God should be in all things. You may forget for a while but you will come back always. Even the washing up lol. When I'm at the sink God will come up. Maybe it was something I have been thinking about with how I am living. Doing chores you tend to think about life.

People naturally think about life and whats happening. How they conducted themselves in relationships. How to sort out problems. So really these everyday issues are the things God is interested in. The battle of trusting yourself or trusting God.

I don't think that means you don't work things out for yourself. But I think this is done with God in mind. Even in small things as they lead to bigger things so its important to take everything to God.

But I could be preocuppied with something and not be thinking of God. At least not consciously or directly. That is part of who we are. We are creative and have interests that grab out attention. In some ways you could say this is for God as well as this may be a spiritual gift or knowledge which helps you bring glory to God. Or get a better understanding and deeper faith.

 

[schnauzer]

You asked for historical evidence and that, along with the Bible itself, is about as good as you're going to get in terms of proving Jesus existed. I'm sorry to hear you are going through troubled times and that you are angry with God. This isn't an uncommon place to be for believers in their walk with God, so you need to know you are not alone.

To properly offer guidance I would need to know more about your situation, which you may or may not want to share on the internet. Your best option would be to talk to your pastor or a local Christian counselor. Not trying to turn you away, feel free to post here or DM me with details and I'll gladly help, but know it will be a slower process than in person.

My advice: God needs to be the source of happiness and joy in your life. In your next post you asked:


First of all, have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Based on what I've read, I am assuming the answer to that is yes.

The Bible says we are saved by grace through what? Faith. So, the short answer to your question is yes. As scary of a thought as that is, the fact you are here, asking questions, and seem very concerned about your relationship with God shows that you have at least a little faith left, but you are at a crossroads right now.

Jesus taught, using the parable of the Sower, about 4 types of people who were at different points spiritually. He said one of those people were like rocky soil where the seed, which represented the Gospel, was accepted and sprung up quickly, but when the sun came out and the heat beat down on the newly sprouted tree, it withered away because the rocky soil had caused it to have shallow roots, meaning this person did not have a strong enough foundation to withstand hard times when they inevitably came.

I'm going to give you my honest opinion based solely on what you've shared with us so far, I believe this is where you are at, but it's not where it has to end. Not one believer was born with a soft heart that was ready and willing to accept God's word. The Holy Spirit had to work the ground, just like a farmer has to till the soil before he plants his crop, before any of us had any hope of growing a faith that would produce good fruit.

God can get rid of all the rocks and weeds that are threatening to derail your faith and cause you to grow roots that will withstand any battle you may face. Re-prioritize your life and make God number 1. Get into his word and spend time in prayer with him. Really seek him out. I'm not going to promise you that nothing bad will ever happen to you again, nor will I promise that it will reverse whatever has already happened to you. But I will promise you that when the storm comes and you feel the flood waters beating against the side of your house, it will stand because it is built upon the rock that is Jesus Christ.

God sees you; he hasn't abandoned you, and you're not too far gone for him to reach you. I will be praying for you and am here to help you through this.

Thank you, brother. God bless you. I'm sure you're right on target in everything you wrote... I want God to be first in my life, but I find it difficult (or I refuse) to do what you're asking of me, which is to seek Him in prayer. This morning, I was praying (in my own way), I don't know if sincerely or not, believing or not, but I asked God to have mercy on me and guide me... I want to be His because He was the only One who gave me freedom from all the evils of my life... but I find it difficult to believe. There's a kind of resistance on my part. I think it's a lack of humility; my heart has hardened.
That is, I recognize and am aware that all I lack is God, but deep down, my heart refuses to accept it, and I'm not sure, but I think it's out of pride... As I said before, I'm not entirely sure why, but there's anger in my heart toward God, and that makes me reject Him...
Blessings to all of you.

 

[fhansen]

For example, should a Christian live all day for Christ, completely enslaved to others, without even a moment for themselves or to pursue any personal hobby they desire?
Why does the thought cross my mind that God enslaves and demands too many things? Is that true, or am I getting off topic?
Sometimes I think about the people who participate in events every day, for example, charity events or evangelization events, and I wonder why I don't enjoy these events or being with my brothers and sisters, but rather see it as torturous and enslaving work, rather than pleasure...
Is this something I should be concerned about?
What should a Christian's life be like? Does it have to be sacrificial and suffering like Jesus's, or is the idea that only Christians work and rest on their days off valid?
Do we have to be evangelizing all day?
Does God want us to have some time for ourselves?
Why do I have the idea that God is a torturing ogre?
I just want to live a life of basic responsibilities. That is, I want to learn from Jesus and apply his teachings to my life and please him, but I also want time for myself...
For example, some brothers and sisters say, "I want Jesus to find me serving when he returns." My question is... why? What would happen if God found them doing something else? (Something that isn't sinful, of course).
Why do they worry so much about God finding them serving when he returns? That's just an example.

Augustine put it quite succintly with this exceedingly profound yet simple statement, even as it might need to be fleshed out a bit for the unitiated:
"Love, and do what you want".