[Faith-talk] blindness and faith issues question

[Debby Phillips]

Beth, I hate to sound like a stick in the mud, but I think your 
pastor is right.  I know all the practical stuff, I understand.  
There's a part of me that wants to say, hey, Blake should be able 
to stay with you.  But a bigger part of me says, no.  How long is 
he going to be in Denver? Would it work for him to spend the 
night at a church member's home? You see, I know how these things 
work.  Nobody ever "intends" to have sex.  But it's very 
difficult when two people are together in close proximity for it 
not to happen.  And Scripture and other spiritual writers talk 
about "the occasion of sin".  In other words, you need to not put 
yourself into situations where temptation can lead to sin.  Your 
pastor is being just that, your pastor.  He is a wise man.  Why 
not ask him if he has any suggestions as to what you could do so 
that you could enjoy Blake's visit without putting yourself in to 
a position where you might give into temptation?

I have been in those situations Beth, and I have to say that I 
almost blew it.  Plus it's not a great witness for two 
Christians, male and female to be living in the same house.  
People will speculate and think that you had sex whether you did 
or not.  This is really not a blindness issue other than you need 
to make different arrangements.  And be thankful that you have a 
pastor who is looking out for your best interests.    Blessings,    
Debby and Neena