So some issues were (anonymously) raised with my last post and I thought I would address them briefly.
“…you cannot assume that just because you see numerous guys around females, that they are just trying to flirt, or get a date, or find a wife. I’ve seen you around girls occasionally, and I never make such assumptions…”
True. I wasn’t talking to the people who happen to be around girls. I have seen young women be made visibly uncomfortable (and talked to them about it) by guys following them around everywhere, though. If that’s not you, then this post isn’t really for you.
“…God NEVER discourages marriage, or seeking a godly wife— ever. Yes, girls can become an idol, but that totally depends on one’s attitude towards it…”
God actually commanded marriage (cf. Genesis 1 and 2). Paul later stated in 1 Corinthians 7 that there may be reasons (which, within the historical context of 1 Corinthians was probably either a coming famine or persecution) that one may wish to not get married and would be right to do so. I have nothing against men and women getting married; my issue is with idolatry. Again, if that’s not an issue for someone then this post was not written for him.
“…Yes, girls can become an idol, but that totally depends on one’s attitude towards it. I would be very cautious with how you judge others in this area. There are many areas in your own life that could be idols…”
Yes, it depends on one’s attitude. This post was not polemic against guys hanging out with girls, it was polemic against idolatry. I have my own idols, plenty of them. When you see mine, I would greatly appreciate if you would tell me about them. This post was intended as a warning and encouragement, not a condemnation.
“Also, you imply that a relationship with a girl naturally gets in the way with your relationship with God, That is not so!! Why would God institute marriage if it was not meant to bring one CLOSER to God? Yes, dating is not marriage, but if you do not date, court, or talk to girls. YOU WILL NOT BE MARRIED!”
We are our own enemies when it comes to our relationship with God; we will use anything we can as a weapon against Him: this includes relationships. Food was intended to bring you closer to God (in that it points to Jesus who alone can satisfy our deepest needs, cf John 6:35), but gluttony is still a sin for many people. Often, we don’t recognize our idols. They seem normal to us. This post was meant as a wake-up call.
Hopefully that clears some things up. I’m sorry if I came across as judgmental. I am one wicked sinner saved by God’s grace trying to help others with something they might not be able to see. Thank you for posting your concerns, I really do appreciate it.
