Expert: Carl Fuglein - 7/14/2010

Question
Hi Carl,
I go to church every so often, and have just got back from 2 meetings at a christian youth conference. I was just wondering how come when I am there and feel nothing? I know inside its the right thing to do, but no matter how often I go to church and pray I cant feel god in my life. Im thinking it may have something to do with the fact I have never had a proper relationship with god, and am quite happy with my life. Im just so confused.

Many thanks,
Jasmine.

Answer
Jasmine-

Some people can tell you the year, month, day, hour, minute, and second that they became a Christian.  Others, like myself, can't tell you the decade.  Most people, in my experience, fall into the second category.  They just kept going to church, praying to God, waiting for God to speak to them.  Ultimately, it happens.

Sounds to me like you fall in the second category, too.  You know that God is there, you know that it is the right thing to do to go to church.  The problem is, you don't feel God in your life.  Jasmine, He's there, He's listening.  What He's waiting for is for you to give everything to Him - your heart, your mind, your soul.  I'm not saying you haven't, but maybe you're holding back to a little of your life for yourself.

My best advice to you is to find a good Christian mentor.  Maybe your pastor or youth pastor if you have one.  Maybe an older member of your church.  Sit and talk with them and explore your whole life and what it is that you're looking for.  It's hard for me to do it just by email, because I don't know you.  But someone that knows you who is in tune with God can really help you explore what's going on.

Finally, have some patience.  I didn't really, really find God until I was about 43.  Just keep going through the motions, do the right thing, live your life the way you think God wants, and He will ultimately find you.

Jeremiah 29:11  For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
12  In those days when you pray, I will listen.
13  If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me.
14  I will be found by you," says the LORD. "I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and bring you home again to your own land."


These verses have meant a lot to me over the years.  I've sufferred through a flood, through another flood that affected my daughter, heart surgery, dialysis, and a kidney transplant.  God has always been there for me and got me through my trials and tribulations, and he will be there for you.

Hope this helps, let me know if you have any more questions.

blessings and hugs,

carl