[Faith-talk] updates on my current living situation

[Linda Mentink]

Hi Beth,

Please be careful what you write here, and watch your language. 
Remember, all messages are archived. I know it's rough for you and 
your boyfriend right now, but you're very wrong, if in fact you 
believe yourself to be a Christian, to live together before marriage. 
The Bible tells us to avoid the appearance of evil, and that the 
marriage bed is not to be defiled. You're struggles are partly 
because you are not being obedient to your Lord, no matter how you 
rationalize it.. In my opinion, you're going about this all wrong. 
Your boyfriend should stay with a church family temporarily, if 
possible, and get his finances squared away. Neither of you will be 
tempted to enter into the "nowing each other" part of the 
relationship before marriage.

As to FaceBook, also be careful what you post there as well. Share 
privately with a few close friends, and don't block your family..

You are allowing people and circumstances to rule over you, rather 
than allowing God to work in and through you. We on this list are 
praying for you, but God's will won't be done if your will isn't 
lining up with His. Be careful how you spend what little money you 
have so that you can save for a marriage license. Maybe your pastor 
will preside over a private ceremony in the Church when you can afford it.

Many of the problems we all have in our lives are partly of our own 
making, and we blame God or others for how things are turning out for 
us. Please ask God for discernment and His wisdom, and stop plowing 
ahead with your own agenda.

I continue to pray for you.

Blessings,

Linda