AboutDr. Jay Nelson Forrest Expertise I can answer any question dealing with Christian mysticism, such as questions concerning the awakening call, the purgative way, the illuminative way, the unitive way, spiritual experiences, spiritual direction, spiritual disciplines, prayer, ecstasy, the rule of life, internal monasticism, asceticism, mystical theology, devotional helps, chanting, meditation, contemplation, hesychasm, and more.
Experience
Dr. Jay N. Forrest is an ardent student of Christian mysticism in all three branches of Christianity (Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant). Jay Forrest was a Charismatic minister for over 20 years, pastoring churches in Wisconsin, Missouri, Tennessee, Arizona, and New Mexico. He is the author over over 150 articles and poems and several books. He currently is a Adult Sunday School teacher for Our Lady Queen of Angels Church.
Question Thanks Jay,
My name is barrett and im 16 years old and i have alot of questions. I was born a christian and raised one as well but i have so many questions about it that i can't truthfully say i believe in all of it. I've been doing alot of research on all religions and i just would like your input. Thanks. Okay, i was wondering how you personally concluded that christianity was the right religion or way of life. Also, for ways of life such as asceticism, are not people that do that merely rejecting what was put on this earth to enjoy? I know exactly why someone would choose to become ascetic but i can't seem to understand if it is or ever was the correct thing to do. One more question, when im contemplating something and i keep breaking it down i always seem to arrive at the same conclusion, that i will never be able to understand what is true without having some doubt. Thanks so much for your time Jay,
Barrett
Answer Hi Barrett,
Having studied other religions, I found that Christianity better fit the facts of reality. I determined that the religion that was most consistent with the facts and with itself was the true religion.
Asceticism has its place, but it can be overdone. It teaches us not to reject what is here to enjoy, but rather it teaches us to enjoy things in their proper balance. The key is to be detached from all things so as to be a slave of no thing. Detachment allows us the ability to view things objectively and without bias.
You are right, there is nothing other than your own existance that will not include doubt. I believe that is because we have freedom of choice. If I knew God existed with absolute certainity I could never doubt He existence. That would effectively elliminate my choice of believing in Him or not.
Follow your heart and listen to your inner voice. You must walk your own walk with God. You must develop your own faith. It will not be yours until you have struggled with the doubts yourself. You must find your own answers in order to make your faith really yours.
