Why do we lose it?

[Jester]

We Christians are sometimes guilty of loosing our tempers, getting judgmental, flippant, condescending, or just generally unpleasant. This is true in spite of the fact that we have the holy spirit with us. While it may be true that we are all "works in progress", I feel that it might be worthwhile to discuss the issue.

First, I believe that apologetics debate is not much of a means of evangellism. I don't know of anyone who became Christian due to a debate. I believe, however, that one of the best things that we can do for ourselves and others is "repay evil with good" (and, of course, never instigate or elevate tensions). Many people are here because they feel judged and attacked by Christians. We only prove these accusations when we come at them with an attacking and/or judgmental attitude.

The purpose is this discussion is to discuss some of our reasons for poor behavior. I would like us to name said reasons (preferably with each person naming those reasons pertaining to him/her) and put them up for discussion. I'd also like to impose the rule that no reason can be named without following it without either a way of fixing it (please try to be as realistic as possible - simply saying that we're going to stop probably won't help us much), or a request for advice in the matter.

I'll begin with one of the more embarrassing reasons why I'm short with people (I’ll make that the first response).

[alexiarose]

Why do we lose it? Simple, too many of us have forgotten how to laugh. Too many of us think we need to be serious about religion. That it is somehow so important to life or death. Is it any more important than breathing? But we hold our breath at times, right? Yet we can't laugh at ourselves when we know that some of our beliefs aren't exactly sane. Why?

Ok, so the trick is to use lots of the smiley thingies and REALLY BRIGHT COLORS

You strike me as a very innocent soul. I pray you stay this way forever.

If I ever get to the point where I can't laugh at myself or not sweat the small stuff, I will have to not like life much anymore. Maybe it has something to do with age. I don't remember mom being so serious all the time until she turned like almost 30 or something.

But I can't make the claim of innocent. I am trying my best to convince her that God exists and He can love her despite all her problems. That is ok though. I have faith that if I can't get it across to her in person, perhaps I can get it across to her here, that might make it stick in her brain..... Now that was funny!!!!!!