my first blog

This is my first blog here. Hopefully the first of many. I want a place to express my feelings outside of the discussion area, so that I don’t offend too many people.. though im not even sure if others read these or not. Being on this site a short time has taught me quite a bit. I am blessed to have the people on this site on my spiritual journey. I have seen much love from people I have never met, and is truly a blessing, and a sign of the love that God instills in all believers.
Though one thing this site has helped me affirm, is that I am not a fundamentalist , and don’t think I ever will be. I cannot except an interpretation of the bible that contradicts the things I have learned from my own spiritual experiences and my own relationship with God. We have two ways to learn about God and Faith; The bible and its teachings (im including church in this as well, though I know that could be separate), and the things in life we experience. It is when those things clash that we must look into our hearts and souls, and talk to God. My heart and my personal relationship with Jesus tells me that many of the beliefs fundamentalists hold on to are outdated and not the true desire of God. I think so many have lost sight of the gifts we have been given by the Lord and have replaced these gifts with blind following of scripture, much of which has become outdated in the modern world. These beliefs cause so many to make decisions and judgments based on peoples sins rather than their character. They cause people to vote for politicians who may share religious views, but have little skill when it comes to running a country or state. They cause people to judge some sins over others, regardless of the fact that we all sin. They cause us to ignore science in favor of some beliefs, but then embrace it when it fits the agenda. It is used to justify hate and intolerance.
God created this world we live in, and gave us its resources to use to grow and become wise. Not to stagnate in 1000+ year old social practices. God wants us to grow and learn, and unlock the secrets of this world we live in. To be of God is to be kind, loving, supportive, a light for others, not a tool of condemnation.