[Faith-talk] blindness and faith issues question

Sun Dec 28 05:13:09 UTC 2014

Hi Beth,

I am finally caught up and thought I would weigh in, even though it
could be way late.

I think you and Blake should be talking about this and be up front
with other about these things.  I recommend for any relationship being
on the same page with other, not only in terms of faith, but also in
terms of your physical relationship.  When and how certain things
happen (or don't happen) need to be decisions made by both of you in
unity.  It's all about trust and having the same goals.

So, ask yourself if you guys are on the same page concerning the
physical part of your relationship.  This may be obvious, but you
should pray about whether or not you trust him (and yourself) not to
take things to far.  Another good question might be how much you and
Blake believe others' opinions/concerns should factor in your
relationship.  No matter what you do, people will have their ideas and
opinions (this list, case and point), but ultimately, it's you both
who matter in this.  I would recommend praying about this and about
the state of your relationship.

I have other views about the subject of allowing others suspicions to
guide your actions, but they're not appropriate here.  My experience
leads me to believe that if you pray about it, listen to the holy
spirit, and talk to those you truly trust to give you advice, you will
be heading down the right path.  Feel free to email me off list if you
wish to talk further.

On 12/27/14, Ashley Bramlett via Faith-talk <faith-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> Hi,
> I agree with Chris here.
> Beth, its your decision. I would say no to living long term together. But
> its just a week and you have good logistical reasons to live in the same
> apartment for that time.
>
> So, whatever decision you will make or have made, I hope it worked out and
> you maintained your purity.
>
> Ashley
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Christine Olivares via Faith-talk
> Sent: Thursday, December 18, 2014 9:35 AM
> To: Debby Phillips ; Faith-talk,for the discussion of faith and religion
> Subject: Re: [Faith-talk] blindness and faith issues question
>
> Beth,
> As I have said, you should do what you feel is right. My husband and I did
> live together before marriage with his mom, and yes, even slept in the same
> bed. Oh dear! Well, we didn't have any problems staying pure, so I disagree
> that because you are in the same proximity you will just start popping out
> babies. If you do have enough discipline you should be fine. If you do feel
> you are going to be tempted, then have him stay in someone else's house.
>
> I honestly think people are just assuming it will be tough for you to make
> your own decisions, and that you will be "tempted." It depends on how you
> value being a Christian, and I don't say this as blaming you but for your
> own self-examination. Are you a strict Christian or will you do what is
> easier for you? Blake is staying for a week, it's not like he is living with
> you.
>
> I am more of an open-minded Christian in that sometimes you have to think
> outside the box and not judge anyone at all. You need to do what helps you
> and what is best for you. If you know you will be tempted, do something
> about it. If not, then proceed as planned.
>
> You have many people who are giving you all different opinions, and no
> opinion is gospel. So just take what everyone is saying and do what you feel
> is right.
>
> Have a great day.
> Christine
>> On Dec 18, 2014, at 2:28 AM, Debby Phillips via Faith-talk
>> <faith-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>
>> 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
>>
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>
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-- 
Julie McGinnity
National Federation of the Blind performing arts division secretary,
Missouri Association of Guide dog Users President, National Federation
of the Blind of Missouri recording secretary,
graduate Guiding Eyes for the Blind 2008, 2014
"For we walk by faith, not by sight"
2 Cor. 7