A Former Witch Looks At The Lord Of The Rings
I have a blog that is dedicated to someone, and that someone is not my Yehovah God or Yeshua Messiah [Jesus Christ]…. How utterly ridiculous, huh?
Mother Dear read a few articles to me entitled “A Former Witch Looks At The Lord Of The Rings” and “Be A Soldier” and listening I let the words pass by me and fade into a whisper at first. I had studied Tolkien and knew what he believed. Yes, his books contains wizards, witches, and other mythical creatures but so what? It wasn’t affecting my spirit. I kept telling myself this while Mother Dear was reading, but then the Spirit of Truth began to move in me and I quieted down my own thoughts and let him open my ears to his truth. Could what this man is saying be the truth? Should I really be so involved (or at all) with any books or movies that involve witchcraft or magic, in any form? Whether or not all his facts are exactly to par this man speaks with experience. He knows how to identify witchcraft, and if nothing else one should at least read the article in that knowledge.
If you’re just visiting my site or you’ve been reading for a while I will just tell you how much I LOVE Lord of the Rings. It was part of my identity for a long time and I was proud of it. I collect LOTR games, calendars, figures, cards, photos, etc. I read all the books, several times over. I studied Tolkien, Middle Earth history, and the Elvish language like it was my history class. I have defended it against ideas that it was evil. I studied and searched to find similarities between Yehovah, the WORD, Yeshua, angels, and so on. I knew just about every fact five ways from sunday. I tell you this so you can fully grasp where I’m coming from. I am not just another person saying this. I am a LOTR-studying, sword wielding sheildmaiden, hobbit-loving, ring-wearing wanna be, BUT no more.
When I first saw the Fellowship of the Ring in 2001 leery of the scene where Saruman uses the Palantir. It was a crystal ball he was using to communicate with other spirits. Then when Saruman and Gandalf start using their wizard’s staffs to throw each other around I was really wondering if this was alright for us to watch. We had never allowed any kind of witchcraft, good or playful, in our home. Not Beauty and the Beast. Not Mary Poppins. Not Pocahontas. Not Pete and the Dragon.
However, as we went along that uncomfortable feeling slowing went away and I let myself believe otherwise, even though the whole story is centered around an evil, magical object, spelling-speaking elves, witches, wizards, walking trees, and mythical creatures. In doing so witchcraft became familiar to me and after awhile no longer bothered me. How often do we let ourselves slowly get pulled into something? Satan always comes as an Angel of Light and decieves both believers and unbelivers.
“Did you know that Tolkien has inspired DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS and is considered to be the father of these occultic role playing games? I heard someone mention that the other night on COAST TO COAST so I did searches myself and found out that it is true. Those like a lot of Christians I know are a bit hypocritical (and I guess I was at some point too, but was ignorant) by all out condemning Harry Potter while fully behind Tolkien. He was a catholic. I don’t know if you knew that. To me not just LOTR but also some of their other stories didn’t set right with me. Like NARNIA (C.S.LEWIS). I get it that the lion as Christ’s symbol of the LION OF JUDAH but was filled with all these abominable creatures like CENTAURS (half man, half horse) and SATYRS (half man, half goat), which are the demonic offspring of fallen angels and animals as mentioned in the BOOK OF THE GIANTS or some of those other books.”
Just as with Tolkien I believe that since C.S. Lewis was a ‘believer’ all his books were justified even though they contained magic and mythology. Just as I did with LOTR I overlooked and pardon the witches, magic, spells, half human half beast creatures, and otherwise demonic beings. Through my searching in all of this Leviticus 20: 15-16 was brought to my attention because the Chronicles of Narnia contain both “good” and “bad” offspring of this abominable act.
“If a man has sexual relations with an animal, he must be put to death, and you are to kill the animal. If a woman approaches an animal and has sexual relations with it, you are to kill the woman and the animal; their blood will be on them.”
Other creatures like hobbits, trolls, centaurs, and elves are man’s creation, not of Yehovah God, and therefore evil. As human beings we are made in Yehovah’s image and are precious in his sight. We are told not to make an images of pagan gods, which many of the mythological creatures are from a pagan religion.
Genesis 1:26-27
Then God said, “Let us make humankind in our image, in the likeness of ourselves; and let them rule over the fish in the sea, the birds in the air, the animals, and over all the earth, and over every crawling creature that crawls on the earth.” 27 So God created humankind in his own image; in the image of God he created him: male and female he created them.”1 Corinthians 11:7
“For a man indeed should not have his head veiled, because he is the image and glory of God, and the woman is the glory of man.”Deuteronomy 4:23
“Watch out for yourselves, so that you won’t forget the covenant of ADONAI your God, which he made with you, and make yourself a carved image, a representation of anything forbidden to you by ADONAI your God.”Deuteronomy 4:16-19
“Do not become corrupt and make yourselves a carved image having the shape of any figure – not a representation of a human being, male or female, 17 or a representation of any animal on earth, or a representation of any bird that flies in the air, 18 or a representation of anything that creeps along on the ground, or a representation of any fish in the water below the shoreline. 19 For the same reason, do not look up at the sky, at the sun, moon, stars and everything in the sky, and be drawn away to worship and serve them; ADONAI your God has allotted these to all the peoples under the entire sky.”
“Jesus warned against calling evil good and that is what you are doing if you call a wizard good. This kind of blaspemy is nothing new. I heard that it was Enoch that inspired the so called good wizard Merlin character as well as the pagan god Hermes. I really don’t quite understand what that is all about. But you know they did the same thing with Jesus’ apostles. Like Barnabas and Paul people thought were the gods Mercurius and Jupiter. But yet they did not compromise by promoting anything occultic.”
Whether it be LOTR or COH or just outright evil magic it all leads down the same path and is all an abomination to the Creator of the Universe. Because I am seeking His Torah, His commands, His Son, and His will in my life I am turning from this and demolishing all pagan practices from my house.
After reading the articles and doing some pondering of my own I was really convicted and had to admit to myself that LOTR is witchcraft, even though I really didn’t want to. Do you know how inconvenient this is for me?! But I can turn a blind eye to this no longer. I had to evaluate and weigh was evil or holy in Yehovah’s sight, not my own. Yehovah did not dwell just a little about this subject. He said over and over again that we are not involve ourselves with pagan practices, witchcraft, divination, and sorcery, and we must apply this to every area of our life, including books and movies.
Can I really get rid my entire LOTR collection for the sake of my beliefs? Yes, I can and I will. Yeshua left his place of glory, was born of a human, and died a sinner’s death so I might be grafted into the Vine. It is but a small sacrifice for me to do this, even if some consider it legalistic or not biblically-founded. All the things of this earth will pass away, but what will be counted for eternity is my faith, my works, and my willingness to serve him with my all. Where your treasure is there is your heart. My treasure is in Yehovah!
Matthew 6: 18 21
But you, when you fast, wash your face and groom yourself, so that no one will know you are fasting — except your Father, who is with you in secret. Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. “Do not store up for yourselves wealth here on earth, where moths and rust destroy, and burglars break in and steal. Instead, store up for yourselves wealth in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and burglars do not break in or steal. For where your wealth is, there your heart will be also.
Many things that went into the making of LOTR coincidentally have something to do with witchcraft – read the article. Not too mention, and I knew this, that a lot of the lore in LOTR came from pagan sources (as well as many of the traditions in ‘christian’ holidays). Yes, I know that all the days of the week and the names of months are from pagan origins but we don’t go get all obsessed and start collecting things them.
Tolkien spent more time creating another world of witchcraft than he did in this world making an impact for the Messiah. I am not saying there is no good in LOTR, because I definitely think it has some good morals and lessons as does Harry Potter, but if I want to learn a moral lesson I can open up the WORD. It would be time well spent.
“LOTR is a clever instructional course in witchcraft disguised as fantasy and entertainment…. and is breaking all records for ticket sales. All three movies were released at the time of the witchcraft sabat of Yule!”
Since Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings films many more films, like Harry Potter, Chronicles of Narnia, Eragon, and the Golden Compass, have been brought to the big screen, along with all sorts of media and collectors items, to draw more people into this fantasy world. Does anyone wonder why believers are slowly straying so far from the WORD and the mindset thereof?
2 Timothy 4:4-5
Yes, they will stop listening to the truth, but will turn aside to follow myths. But you, remain steady in every situation, endure suffering, do the work that a proclaimer of the Good News should, and do everything your service to God requires.
I know that this is a bold move, especially since I HAVE defended and endorsed both Lord of the Rings and Chronicles of Narnia, but I must act on my own convictions and encourage others to do the same. I’m not posting this to look down on anyone. How can I? I had a huge blind-spot in my life and it’s not my place to look at the speck in anyone else’s, but I can present you the information for you to make your own decisions based on what the Holy Spirit convicts you of.
1 John 4:15-17
Do not love the world or the things of the world. If someone loves the world, then love for the Father is not in him; 16 because all the things of the world – the desires of the old nature, the desires of the eyes, and the pretensions of life – are not from the Father but from the world. 17 And the world is passing away, along with its desires. But whoever does God’s will remains forever.
James 4:17
So then, anyone who knows the right thing to do and fails to do it is committing a sin.
Some ask “What does this matter in Eternity, when people are lost?” Such matters do not take priority over salvation, but once you’re saved you are called to be set apart. To live as a living sacrifice unto Him. The WORD says faith without works is dead. If we live just as “saved” and are not following as He commanded us then our faith is dead. James tells us that works make one righteous. Being holy is a two way street. We live for a purpose and that purpose is to bring glory and praise to Yehovah. To honour and love Him. To keep His name holy and follow His commands.
Romans 12:1
“I exhort you, therefore, brothers, in view of God’s mercies, to offer yourselves as a sacrifice, living and set apart for God. This will please him; it is the logical “Temple worship” for you”James 2:14-24
What good is it, my brothers, if someone claims to have faith but has no actions to prove it? Is such “faith” able to save him? 15 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food, 16 and someone says to him, “Shalom! Keep warm and eat hearty!” without giving him what he needs, what good does it do? 17 Thus, faith by itself, unaccompanied by actions, is dead. 18 But someone will say that you have faith and I have actions. Show me this faith of yours without the actions, and I will show you my faith by my actions! 19 You believe that “God is one”? Good for you! The demons believe it too – the thought makes them shudder with fear! 20 But, foolish fellow, do you want to be shown that such “faith” apart from actions is barren? 21 Wasn’t Avraham avinu declared righteous because of actions when he offered up his son Yitz’chak on the altar? 22 You see that his faith worked with his actions; by the actions the faith was made complete; 23 and the passage of the Tanakh was fulfilled which says, “Avraham had faith in God, and it was credited to his account as righteousness.” He was even called God’s friend. 24 You see that a person is declared righteous because of actions and not because of faith alone.
The WORD says Yehovah looks on the heart instead of the outward appearance, but man does. Since we are the Messiah’s mbassadors we must live a life in our actions, speech, and dress that reflect Him. To say this is nothing compared to other areas is the pot calling thge kettle black. Yehovah says sin is sin, though he hates certain sins more, they all result in the same punishment. If this matters so little to Him and He really doesn’t care why did He take the time (more then just once) to teach us?
What if, after careful consideration of a biblical mandate, we remain uncertain as to its character as principle or custom? If we must decide to treat it one way or the other but have no conclusive means to make the decision, what can we do? Here the biblical principle of humility can be helpful. The issue is simple. Would it be better to treat a possible custom as a principle and be guilty of being overscrupulous in our design to obey God? Or would it be better to treat a possible principle as a custom and be guilty of being unscrupulous in demoting a transcendent requirement of God to the level of a mere human convention? I hope the answer is obvious.
Shalom
Read follow up post: Abstain From ALL Appearance Of Evil
57 Comments | Rules of Engagement | What Are You Talking About??
Posted By Miss Jocelyn Tzahala on May 22, 2008 | Category: Editorals, Ponder Me This, Reviews, The Scriptures
Welcome to A Pondering Heart. Blessings to you in your visit here! This site is owned by a 18yo young lady, Miss Jocelyn who is striving to please Yahweh in everything she does. She is the second eldest daughter of two wonderful parents, sister to seven siblings, and "momma" to beautiful Nubian goats. Currently completing her education and serving Yahweh until she further serves him in marriage and motherhood. In hopes she might encourage ladies in a Scriptural-worldview she shares about her daily life, beliefs, and heart’s ponderings. Here you will find stories from life on the homestead, encouragement, the Scriptures, photography, reviews, giveaways, memes, and much more!
Good for you Jocelyn! I’m very proud of you! :-) You might get some responses defending LOTR or the Chronicles of Narnia, but you have determined that neither of those match up with the Word of God and that is the only standard that matters! :-)
Keep matching things to the Bible! :-)
Dear Jocelyn,
I am really thankful that you posted this, because my girls have asked me what is WRONG with LOTR (we have nothing to do with it), and all I could tell them is that it has to do with witchcraft and the underworld. I couldn’t really give them anything specific… it was just a feeling I had. And I don’t often go by my feelings. It just felt creepy to me somehow.
What a mature decision you have come to, to get rid of all your LOTR stuff. You might get a bundle for it, but might I suggest that you simply throw it out, rather than selling it to some other deceived soul? Hard words, I know.
It’s a blessing to see you living after the Lord’s leading.
I will be reading that article carefully, and probably posting a link to it also.
Miss Jocelyn,
No matter what other people may say, your decision is lead by God. Whether people agree with you or not, you keep your stand and your convictions. People can agree to disagree, but a fellow sister or brother in Christ should not say one negative thing about you. You made your decision based on scripture and you took a deep dive into God’s Word about something that was near and dear to your heart. That’s not an easy step to take.
I applaud you for your determination to please the Lord and the strength it took to make that decision AND go public with it. Yes, Christians will defend their view on LOTR, but although they may continue in their interest of the films and books, they have no place to convince you to change your new outlook.
Even when Christians disagree, it’s best to support a Christian in a decision they feel is pleasing their Saviour. I’m very proud of you.
Jocelyn, really!! Trustme, trust me when I say LOTR is not of the occolt. Nor is Narnia, and not Harry Potter either. They are not of the occoult at all. And being an avid HP reader, I know. Especialy not Narnia. Narnia is an alegory, you know that! Lewis was a christian, a believer I think.
I can see where you are coming from on HP/LOTR, but really, Narnia is not occoultish in any way shape of form. And I think you know that.
What does the rest of your family think about this, out of curiostiy?
BUT if you are still sure (which knowing you as I do I don’t believe you will loosen your stand) I would be very interested in whatever stuff you have for sale.
But I have one question. Who in the world will I speak elvish with??????
This is probably disjointed, and I may sound angry, but in reality I’m just …..shocked.
Kate
I admire your strength in making this decision, although I disagree with it. I don’t think that I am really in a position to try to change your mind, but I do have some polite comments on your post. One thing that I wondered when reading it was if you believe that there is absolutely no value to be found in non-Christian stories such as Greek myths or legends. CS Lewis argues in The Abolition of Man that some truths are universal and that these are often conveyed best by stories. On a similar bent, Tolkien wrote an essay entitled “On Faery Stories” (http://brainstorm-services.com/wcu-2004/fairystories-tolkien.pdf) speaking about the worth of tales. I would recommend that you read it. It gives food for thought and, in a way, adresses some of the LotR issues that you spoke of.
I do not mean to be argumentative, but I am interested in seeing your thoughts on this.
Thank you Jocelyn!
I believe that needed to be said, for you are a blogger role model (for myself also):) for many people needed to hear those words.
I really didn’t get into the Lord of the Rings but I did enjoy Narnia, and never put together the things which mattered. Subtle things like that can start to be larger things which can cause great trouble. Movies especially.
Thank you once again.
Maggie
An afterthought:
“But you know they did the same thing with Jesus’ apostles. Like Peter and Paul people thought were the gods Mars and Apollo. But yet they did not compromise by promoting anything occultic.”
Just wondering whom you are quoting here. Is this from the ex-witch article? (I obviously haven’t read it yet!)
Just for the record, it was Paul and Barnabas, not Peter, and it was Mars and Jupiter, not Apollo. Whoever wrote that is damaging their own credibility with people who know the difference.
Jocelyn,
I watched part of one of them and it made me uncomfortable.
I’m proud of you for realizing that is has magic and witchcraft.
I know it is hard transitioning from being use to having some thing, then not having it cold turkey, but it takes a strong person to have the strength to change. :o)
Love you!
-Tessa
Applause: (clap)(clap)(clap)
I’ve never gotten deeply into things like this, (I do love Narnia though) but there have been books and genres of literature I have chosen to avoid because they are not building me up in Christ. For example, a few years ago I read one or two Spiderwick Chronicles but chose to stop. I was very disappointed when I saw they made a movie.
I do think the website you linked to goes a little too far on a few points, but the idea of not supporting such media is commendable. And like SisterLisa said, what is alright for some Christians is not alright for others… You know what I mean. :)
Applause: (clap)(clap)(clap)
I’ve never gotten deeply into things like this, (I do love Narnia though) but there have been books and genres of literature I have chosen to avoid because they are not building me up in Christ. For example, a few years ago I read one or two Spiderwick Chronicles but chose to stop. I was very disappointed when I saw they made a movie.
I do think the website you linked to goes a little too far on a few points, but the idea of not supporting such media is commendable. And like SisterLisa said, what is alright for some Christians is not alright for others… You know what I mean. :)
I’m glad God is working in your life! I have never seen The Lord of the Rings, so honestly, I don’t know specifically what you’re talking about. But personally, I see nothing wrong with Narnia. :)
I’m very glad that you are willing to give it all up, though – not many people have the strength to just give something up. I will be praying for you, as I know it can be VERY difficult. Blessings!! ~EricaJoy
I don’t think that Tolkien’s world is as much of a world of witchcraft as you made it out to be. All of the “magical” characters (e.g. Gandalf, Sauron, Saruman, Galadriel) are either angels or gifted creatures. Sauron and Saruman were angels who left their true calling. Gandalf and Saruman were angels who were sent to battle the fallen angel Sauron, but Sauron ended up turning Saruman to his side.
The difference between Rowling and Lewis and Tolkien is this: Rowling’s magic is true wichcraft, being practiced in the current world. Tolkien and Lewis’s magic is spiritual power, rather than witchcraft. Also, it is in his own literary world; not the real world.
Lewis was trying to write an allegorical book. His book also took place in a literary made-up world. In doing that, he freed himself up to make changes to physical laws that are binding us in this world. His character Aslan is symbolic of Christ, and his power is of a Godly nature. The White witch is a symbol of evil and of Satan, therefore her power is inferior to Aslan’s and it is ultimately overcome.
I’m just saying- Don’t stick all mythical literature in one category. Rowling is not in the same category as Lewis, and Lewis isn’t even in the same category as Tolkien, even though they were friends.
~Jake ;)
I will say this:
I don’t think it’s a good idea to have you entire life run in devotion to LOTR or Narnia. You can be a fan, or even just enjoy the books, but if you find yourself devoting your entire life to it, in place of Christ, then it needs to be removed.
Was that some sort of a comma-splice sentence I just typed there??
Oh, bravo! This has bothered me some time.
My husband was not saved until later in his teens. He “said a prayer” when he was little, which he can’t even remember, but it wasn’t until he was in his late teens that he realized he had to cry out for God’s mercy to save him.
One of the instrumental things bringing about his salvation in Christ was the change wrought in his younger brother, who was saved at the age of 16yo. Watching his brother, my future husband began to realize he was “going through the motions”.
Anyways, they watched the LOTR together. Not yet a follower of Christ, J watched his brother closely to get his reaction because of the magic/socery/darkness he percieved in the film. He still recalls his shock when his brother became a huge fan.
I had the book “Finding God in the Lord of the Rings” and everything when I met him, but it still didn’t give me anything to really ease his mind. One thing that bothered me was how consumed Tolkien became with his fantasy world – shouldn’t he have been more consumed by Jesus Christ? So I gave away my books and dvd’s before we married.
My brother, incidently, became facinated first in Narnia, then LOTR, then Harry Potter, then . . . at this point, he is practically a mystic and I am very afraid for him. I wish I hadn’t given him those books and fed his hunger for the magic and the supernatural. No he thinks out-of-body experiences are “cool”.
I recently blogged about this: I have been curious about how reading about witches and magic and stuff like this can be pleasing to our Holy God. Many Christians I know are now madly following the Twiligh series which is about a vampire – a blood sucking man! But he is so smooth and always has the perfect things to say that many say “he ruins real men for me.”
You are very brave to take such a stand. May God bless you!
Whooops! There goes my own credibility, Jocelyn. It was Mercury and Jupiter, NOT MARS. (blush) See Acts 14:12.
I did read the articles. And I know what witchcraft is, what magic, evil magic is when I see it. I did a lot of research before reading this kind of fantasy, and none of it is witchcraft.
I guess we must agree to disagree, but this whole thing makes me very sad!
–Kate
(P.S. Do you know a Grl4God? She has left me multiple repeat comments, and each on separate days. She left no link, so I was wondering if maybe you know her?)
Dear Jocelyn,
I’m so proud that you where able to admit that you where wrong rather than defend your love of LOTR or C.S Lewis books. It’s hard to admit that something that you had been so heavily mixed up with is wrong, trust me I know.
I have often wondered about the whole LOTR “vs.” C.S Lewis “vs.” Harry potter. I was often told that “HP” was wrong because of the magic yet the same people watched LOTR. I personally have read all the books in questions and I do agree that they go against the Bible. I’m proud that you’re taking a stand for what you believe! Thanks for your wonderful informative, thought provoking post!
Many Blessings
Sydney
I’m doing good. How about you?
That’s funny you call me Doodle-Head because when Paulie was really little, He wanted Mom to call him that! :)
Thanks for commenting on my blog.
Love you!
Beav
I totally agree with you Sisterlisa!!!!!
Jocelyn, you ARE doing the right thing! No matter who disagrees, or agrees with you, if God is on your side, who can be against you? :-)
I am awed by how you saw what God wanted you to do, and you are doing it! That is such a hard thing to do, especially when it’s about something you really enjoy!!!
Thanks for being such a good example for me!!!
Love,
Amy :O)
P.S. It was really nice to meet you all the other day!!! :-)
Dear Jocelyn,
I read your post early this morning and have been thinking about it all day. I believe one topic you over looked in this post was the subject of control. As you said in the beginning, “I have a blog that is dedicated to man, and that man is not my Lord and Saviour…” You had the books, movies, figurines, and an entire blog dedicated to something that wasn’t real and could not give you anything. Whether or not LOTR is witchcraft or not I cannot say, for I have never read them, but I can say that anything that consumes your time and energy in such a way can not possibly be healthy; and therefore needs to be taken out of your life anyway.
Anything can become an obsession and whatever you obsess over has control of your life. As you said, “Sadly, I have spent more time in my LOTR obsession than I have in the Word of God, and that is wrong. I have put something of the world above my Creator.” It is truly sad how many people do this, how many people can devour a Jane Austin novel, but haven’t read through the entire Bible. I myself have spent more time finishing papers and biology homework this week than I have in the Word of God.
Anything can become an obsession if we let it, but none of it lasts. Nothing in the world, no matter how great it seems, can compare to God. I am glad to see you are getting this out of your life, and were mature enough to see that it was coming between you and God. You are in my prayers, as I know getting something like this out of your life can be hard to do. ~ Elise
Oh, Miss Jocelyn, I am so happy!
At one time, I was going to say something to you about this topic but didn’t. Anyway, I believe you made an awesome decision!!! Woo-hoo!
My parents didn’t want me to read the books/ see the movies (Narnia, LOTR, Harry Potter, etc.) and I am so glad. My friends think Narnia is great and they never understood why I didn’t. But they knew they couldn’t change my mind :). I’ll have to tell them (and their parents) about this article. Thank you so much for posting this!!!
Your sister in Christ,
Alyssa
P.S. Did you receive my comment on your birthday post about the free book?
My dear Joci, I applaud you for posting this. I must admit I never thought LOTR to be “good” and after I watched it the first time I asked myself “is this really appropriate to watch?” I knew, at the time, you loved the LOTR series and so I did not saying anything. But now I don’t have to feel guilty about keeping this “secret” from you :)
Love you mucho and thanks for your help again!
Julia
Dear MJ ~
I am doing well, and you?
Oh, good. Now I don’t feel so bad, since I missed a couple days on the Prayer Challenge, too. But I’m sure we both did our best. :)
I’m going to try to answer your e-mail(s) soon.
Love,
~Miss Kylie
Jocelyn, if you feel that you have placed Tolkien too high in your life then you are making the right decision. But I believe you are making it for the wrong reasons.
Guilt is a powerful motive and it is not a Godly motive through which to make decisions. Many times in my life guilt has clouded my vision so much that I felt like I HAD to do something that really wasn’t what God wanted. The Devil uses guilt to blind people and hurt them.
Honestly look at the Bible and see if it really addresses this or if you are just making significant leaps of logic to justify your decision.
Read more than one opinion and don’t put your trust in the words of a single human but rather let the Spirit guide you.
I hope I don’t sound harsh because I’m not trying to be. But I can tell that you are hurt by this and I know that there will always be people who are simply against everything and they hurt others through what they say.
I unfortunately cannot access the article but even in the sections you quoted there are misleading statements. For instance, the makers of Dungeons and Dragons did NOT adopt the single most important aspect of Tolkien’s world which is the God figure and the power he gives his angels. That is the defining factor. Furthermore, can someone be blamed for an evil use of their product that they never intended?
I realize that Tolkien and The Lord of the Rings are not important. But making decisions based solely on the Bible and the Spirit’s guiding is VERY important and in all honesty, from one Christian to another, I don’t think that’s what is happening here.
Wow! When I began to read this, I did a complete double take! While I cannot say I agree with your conclusion and I don’t agree with the articles in question, I definitly admire your stand! Whether I believe ‘witchcraft’ in Tolkien or Lewis’ works is a problem or not, it’s very good to see you questioning what you believe and studying scripture to come to your own conclusion on it.
I especially agree when it comes to making fantasy an idol – it’s so easy to do, without really noticing! I’m very glad you’re thinking about this stuff, and have personally found it very thought provoking!
I had writen you an enourmous long comment in reply to this, yet, rereading your post, I came across the note at the bottom and was convicted that now was not the time for a debate! I may not agree with you, but I’m not going to question your convictions, especially when you’ve been a fan so long and probably know at least half of what I said anyway! Yet I really did want to have my say on this, so I’ve converted it to a post on my blog. Please understand that I’m not trying to reconvert you or question your convictions by doing that, ok? :)
You are a constant challenge to me; your posts never fail to make me think!
Keep strong in Christ!
– Altariel
Hey, I think some of my other comment wasn’t very well thought out. Hopefully I didn’t upset you. :)
I wanted to comment again to mention that if you are praying and really feel like this is what God wants for you, then I respect that completely. Doing what God wants is still the most important thing. And I definitely don’t want to get into a stupid debate.
And since I know that this is a big deal for you I’ll be praying that God makes his will for you clear so you can have joy whatever you decide. :)
Good for you, I fully support you :)
There will always be people who cannot see things through your eyes, but you are in charge of your life and your relationship with God. You need to do what is right in your heart, regardless of what other people say.
I am proud of you for standing up for yourself! I know God sees what is in your heart and he will surely reward you for being a great example for us bloggers ;)
P.S. I used to be addicted to Celebrity gossip, I used to know everything about anybody’s life. It was sad. Even though it seemed pretty harmless, it wasn’t a good influence on my life. I decided to not even look at the magazines anymore (such as US Weekly, Star, etc). It doesn’t make sense to anybody and I’m sure I appear to be a ‘prude’, but God sees it in my heart. He placed the conviction within me for a reason, gossip is never good, not even about famous people. I am glad I stopped the habit a couple months ago before it consumed me.
So I can surely relate to you!! Keep going strong :)
Sincerely, Martha
Jocelyn, I have to say that I disagree with part of what you say. Though you don’t want to be obsessed with these things, it’s not wrong to like them.
Secondly; humans having relationships with animals… You’re twisting the meaning of that verse.
And thirdly… (If that’s a word. :) ) Tolkien did NOT inspire those games. I’m not disputing you, you’re right to put a stop to obsession. I just don’t think that you have to abstain from it completely.
And for Tolkien being a Catholic… Yes, I knew that. I don’t think it really matters. I know some very good Catholic people.
Once again… I’m NOT picking a fight or arguing, or anything like that. I just wanted to tell you what I believe.
In Christ,
Emily
Miss Jocelyn,
I’ve been reading your blog for a while, and, though I haven’t really commented much, if at all, I decided that this post was definitely comment worthy.
I’ve noticed that alot of people, if not the majority, have commented telling you how wrong your post is, how untrue it is.
And though I don’t agree with alot of the statements made, I think that instead of pointing them out, which alot of people have already done, instead I’m gonna say, ‘Well done’.
If you feel that this is the conviction of your heart, and if you feel that this is right for you, then that is your choice.
Thank you for writing on your opinion on this. I know that that must have been hard to do, and that it must’ve taken alot of courage to do, too.
So, though I don’t agree with all being said, thank you for taking a stand in what you believe in.
~Nick
P.S. Do you happen to collect the LOTR figures?
Thank you for posting that. This issue needs to be addressed, and you are the one to do it. I’ve wanted to read the trilogy, but always put it off for some reason or another. Now I think I will, but only after I’ve done more research and can more easily spot the yucky stuff. God bless you! Thank you for your boldness.
In reply to Timothy’s comment, Jocelyn, you are not the only one being convicted of this. I’m not even a LOTR fan and have been leery of it myself without knowing much about it. And because we are made in the image of God, humans, saved or not, rejoice in parallels like good triumphing over evil, justice, the true meaning of love, etc. which we can find everywhere, Star Wars as well as LOTR. But that doesn’t mean that it glorifies God.
Blessings,
-Breezy
I’m sorry if I came across as rude. You know I like you a lot. While I do not agree with you, I will say as the others have, I do admire you for being able to do this.
–Kate
Oh, Jocelyn, this is a wonderful post!! More people need to come to realize this… I went through this VERY thing a couple of years ago. I used to LOVE to read magic/fantasy books, but then when I was getting REALLY into it I decided that it wasn’t such a good thing… I’ve read so many fantasy books, but as a family we’ve decided that it is something that we don’t read!! My sister is really struggling with this right now, she just loves to read it, but I can tell a difference… my focus isn’t dragons and wizards… but becoming better and more like Jesus Christ!! We’ve had SO many people tell us that we should read it, that we are missing out, and that there is SO much that we can learn and apply to our lives… well excuse me, but I can learn that all from the scriptures!! May God bless you as you continue in your journey closer to HIM!!!!
Alex (from homesteadblogger ;)
Dear Jocelyn,
I am very proud of you, friend. I honor your convictions and your desire to please the Lord. You are so right; In the end, our earthly treasures will not matter.
You are such an inspiration. If only all young folks would have such a desire to put God first…
Love you,
Brooke.
If I may be allowed to add my comment to the long list of comments above. I grew up in a Christian home, and I have been a Christian all of my life. For many years I was told that HP was evil and promoted the occolt. When I read the first book I saw nothing wrong with it. then came the second and the third and so on. I felt like the books were evil but I didn’t completely set myself against them After I had read it and had time to think about, however, I came to the conclusion that the main fault with the book was that it portrayed witchcraft as acceptable and what’s worse ALL FANTASY. What the world really needs to know is that witchcraft is real and not something made up in books and that it’s wrong. When all is said and done, however, we must simply come back to the Bible. And the Bible says in
Philippians 4:8-9 “Finally Brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything is worthy of praise, dwell (ponder) on these things.”
I know that the Bible says that witch craft is wrong and I know for a fact that some of the spells quoted in HP are real spells used in real spell-casting adn for this reason I believe that it’s not edifying and not right. Also, we must take into account that as Christians we are held to a higher standard than those around us and will be judged by the people around us according. And most importantly, in my opinion, we must ask ourselves, “What would Jesus do, is this something I would read in front of Him?”
I must say that I agree, if not wholeheartedly in part, with the accusations set against LOTR, but I can’t with Narnia. I respect your opinions and more so that you were willing to undergo the dispute you knew must follow. It’s an encouragement to know that you are attentive to the voice of God in your life and willing to obey. I would like to meet you some day, perhaps, Lord willing, I might.
Please understand that I don’t want to accuse anyone or point fingers. This is merely my opinion and what the Lord has layed on my heart.
Good going and I’m glad you are posting about it, I’m happy the Holy Spirit is working on those who are reading that article, and it is good for others, non-believers and believers to see Christians repenting of things not pleasing to God so they know how to do it too.
It is amazing when something is taken away, the reactions of those who adored said item/idol. Tell-tale sign of too much honor given to something really not worthy of it.
I posted that, well, A link to it.
~Curufinwe
Oh good I am not the only one!!!! I have been thinking about this for a LONG time but didn’t tell anyone because I hate having to be diffrent from everybody else all the time !!! but after reading this post you have encourged me and I will talk to my prrents about it !
thank you thank you thank you !
lots of love
Ellie
Dearest Jocelyn,
All LOTR and witchcraft aside, the testimony you are making by this post will be encouraging to many. I cannot imagine how hard this must have hit home for you, but honestly, I’m thankful it did. I had wondered about the seeming obsession you had with the LOTR series (and everything associated with it) and was actually a bit concerned at times. Perhaps I should have voiced my thoughts to you but God has His way always and has opened your eyes.
I’m not altogether sure what I think of the articles and the issues they are pressing. I’ll have my parents read them and we’ll talk about it and pray about it. I believe I’ll still finish the last book in the series and perhaps with these thoughts in mind I will come to a more firm conclusion.
May you blessed in realization and new direction, closer to the TRUE ONE.
Your caring friend, Mellie
Ok, I have a few things to say. To start with, any of you who have read Jocelyn’s blog for any amount of time now, know that Jocelyn does NOT take spiritual things lightly. And, if you know her, you know that when she is convicted of sin, she does not just ignore it or brush it off. She also does not exaggerate things. I mean, why would she torture herself with this, especially since she has spent a lot of time researching and reading Tolkien’s different books, knowing all about the LOTR/Tolkien stories and characters?
I believe the reason she has not had time for the past several months to write on the One Blog or to read or watch the movies like we were several months ago is because God knew this was coming.
I have watched for two years now as many of you have told Jocelyn how right-on she is and you know that she speaks the truth and does not twist Scripture. Now, does she or does she not? Jocelyn is by no means perfect, and she herself will tell you that. She knows she can be wrong. That is why it took her a month after reading the initial articles to write and post what you just read. She didn’t read them, say she prayed extensively when it was just a day or two, and post this. She wrote it, then waited a couple of weeks before to make sure it was what she was convicted of and knew in her heart.
I am amazed each time I read a post anywhere that will unsettle our comforts and our entertainment, so the conclusion is that the person who wrote it must just be reading too much into it. Either that or they just need to look for the good in it.
Well, let me tell you. I could find good in Texas Chainsaw Massacre if I looked hard enough, but that would not make it a movie that is Godly. And, frankly, I wonder what movies today do. There are very few.
Now, as for some of the comments I have read here and at other teenager’s blogs:
well, my question is this: How can a bunch of homeschooled kids disagree with the actual experiences of an adult who HAS practiced witchcraft and would obviously know similarities in any work of literature, movie or real life better than they obviously would??
I am speaking this as a woman who did play with a Ouija board as a teenager. I am speaking as a woman whose dad is still steeped into New Age philosophies. We are not taking this lightly.
This realization about LOTR and Narnia and similarities to witchcraft or paganism (i.e. minotaurs, centaurs) is a learning and growing. We all experience it at different times and different rates. I know Harry Potter is about witchcraft, because I have watched the first two movies, and the kids ARE witches by their own words. That one was an easy one. Casting spells, wearing a witch’s hat, flying on a broom… I mean, c’mon, are you kidding me? How much more definitive of symbolic witchcraft can you get? Black cats, owls, chanting, potions, divinations…. If that is just a story, then I think that is taking Christian liberties way too far. Period. That is nonsense. It’s called “Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry” for heaven’s sake.
Witchcraft can be as simple as a rebellious attitude, but usually, we have no idea in most cases what witchcraft is. Besides that, we must be careful, knowing that satan does come as an angel of light. Now, if you have practiced witchcraft and can look at LOTR and say differently, well, then, that is a different story.
And, another thing, if you are going to blog about this, please try to include all parts of the articles and Jocelyn’s post that refer to LOTR. Do not just use the parts you think are exaggerated to prove that you are right. That is taking things out of context, and when we do that with people’s words, as well as with The Word, we are just cheating ourselves out of the truth and placing our own authority on a pedestal. That is pride, and I promise you that pride goeth before a fall and a haughty spirit before destruction.
I do want to thank the many of you who have commented or emailed Jocelyn personally to agree or disagree with her in love. I will tell you that Jocelyn did not write this with any intentions of division. There are many of you whom the Dixon family considers like family, so don’t think you are going to get off that easily!
Many of you also know -and if you don’t, then you need to- that I read all of her posts before she posts them, so they are approved in content.
I am proud of Jocelyn standing for her convictions and following the admonition that we “take every thought captive to Christ”.
signed, the Momma
um, jocelyn,
The guy who invented D&D was a christian.
good article:)
onedaymore
Miss Jocelyn EDITED:
That’s not relevant and I couldn’t find any info to support that claim that he was a Christian when he created it.
Hi Jocelyn.
I will agree with whoever said “I’m not even a LOTR fan and have been leery of it myself without knowing much about it.” I have never read/watched LOTR, Narnia, or Harry Potter. I have friends who really like LOTR, and I’ve considered watching it, but just never did and never felt *quite* comfortable with it.
I don’t really know about Narnia.. heard many good things about it and its allegorical content, but like I said I haven’t read or seen it so I don’t know.
Thanks for posting this. I’ll pray for God to help you as you go thru with your commitment.
~Ashley
Okay, I said I would have some thoughts on this…and I do. You were warned, lol. I know since you have defended this subject before, you’ve probably heard all the arguements, so I won’t really go into detail..of course, if you want me to you are welcome to email or pm or comment me and I would be glad to talk more…
First of all, I think you probably know I disagree with you. Please understand this isn’t an attack against you or your beliefs or anything…because I respect yous o much. Especially now, because I know it must have been hard for you, and although I don’t agree with your decision, if you feel it is right for you and you are convicted to do this then I cannot say you shouldn’t. Plus I am so amazed that you were able to recognize this even when you love it so much and are willing to give it up. That takes a lot of courage and I am so impressed with it!
You know I am a huge Narnia fan, and of course I love LOTR as well. I remember the first time I ever heard of Narnia–a friend asked me if I had ever read Lion, Witch and Wardrobe. I was horrified–I thoguht that sounded like an awful book–I mean, about a witch?!?!!?–and that my parents would never let me read it.
But of course they did and I read it and I loved it and didn’t have a problem with it. Why? Not because there isn’t witchcraft in Narnia–there absolutely is. But guess what? There is witchcraft in this world. It is not a made up thing–witches and witchcraft and sorcery and all of that is REAL–it’s even in the Bible. So I don’t think we can ignore. Yes, there is witchcraft in Narnia (and in LOTR, for that matter) but the thing is it is ALWAYS portrayed negatively. It is the evil that is witchcraft throughout the CoN–from sorcery and sudden vengeance in Caspian to the White Witch to the enchantment of RIllian–it’s all shown to be evil. And I think that’s wonderful, because Lewis isn’t ignoring the fact that witchcraft is a very real thing. He’s using his literature to make sure kids (and adults) understand that it is evil, and if you go to it you will be ruined (a la the wer-wolf/hag scene in Caspian).
Now, yes, there is other “magic” in Narnia that the good side uses. But I don’t think you can necessarily equate that with witchcraft–can it happen in real life? No, but just because something is fantasy and can’t happen in our life doesn’t mean it’s evil or witchcraft. I don’t magic means witchcraft. I think there are different types of magic Narnia–one is the evil magic, like Uncle Andrew played with (and Lewis says this is wrong in the actual book), and the evil magic of the “dark side” (which of course is cleary wrong). Then there is the beautiful magic , which isn’t really magic, but instead a supernatural (aka, in “our world” God) thing….
I thoguht your point about the satyrs and fauns and all that was interesting, and I admit I’ve never thought of that before. But I always just thought that those creatures resembled beasts and humans both, but were not actually a genetic mixture of them. They all come from Greek myths, and I don’t think the Greeks believed that these creatures were from a union of man and beast. They just saw that they resembled both man in some ways and beasts and some ways…it’s kind of like the fact that a gorilla resembles a human and a monkey–but that doesn’t mean we’re related to each other!
I do have to disagree strongly when you say Tolkien didn’t make an impact for Christ. I think he most certainly did. I have heard so many stories of people who found Christ through LOTR–and even more through Narnia and the non-fiction writing of C.S. Lewis–and we know Tolkien was the one who led Lewis to the Lord. In that aspect alone I think Tolkien made PROFOUND impact for Christ–and I know in my life alone, his writings and more particularry Lewis’ have influenced and changed my Christian walk.
I do understand about what you said about you spending more time in LOTR than in the Word. That is actually funny, ’cause that is something I’ve been convicted with lately. I spend more time reading Narnia than my Bible, and that is wrong. Even if Narnia can be used to help my spiritual walk, I have to rely on the Bible as my main source for that.
Again, I respect you so much for this decision, and if you feel God wants you to give up LOTR and CoN, then I know you should. I don’t believe that either one is evil, though, and I know for myself they have deeply blessed me….
Dear Mrs. Dixon,
Thank you for your comment you left on here! :-)
I have to say what Jocelyn has decided to do has really impressed me, I can’t tell you how much so!
Keep up following Christ in WHATEVER way HE calls you, Jocelyn! :-)
In Christ,
Amy
My dear Jocelyn,
You are so very brave! I commend you for taking such a distinct stand for your beliefs. I so admire your eagerness to follow Christ, no matter what. I know this must have been a fairly difficult step to take. I will not say that I completely agree with you in this, simply because the source seems to be unreliable, but I am proud of you for trying so hard to find God’s will for your own walk. May He bless you and always cause you to follow His true guidance!
Your friend,
~Grace
Hello,
I am a mom to one of your faithful readers. She sent me this and asked me to look at your source for her. I did, and was appalled. I skimmed the article you quoted and was surprised you took this as a credible source. Bush bashing and Focus on the Family slamming was too much for me. I found the site to be just downright scary! I would suggest that you continue your research, listen to the Lord and your parents and be very careful who you rely on and quote. And just for the record, I am not a LOTR or Narnia fan, just a concerned Christian mom.
Hi, I’m a HSB blogging teenager who has visited you blog before, and I just wanted to say that I love reading your thoughts. In this issue I ultimately disagree with you, but I applaud your decision to remove LOTR from your life because you felt that it was an obsession and was taking the place of God. I still think that LOTR isn’t occult, but I have noticed the trend among Christian kids of making LOTR an obsession, and I have been concerned for their relationship with God simply because they seem to care more about LOTR than they do about God. I want to say thank you for saying what you really think on this issue and warning against letting LOTR take the place of God. I read the article and wasn’t convinced that the reasoning was sound, but I am glad that you are willing to listen to what God tells you regardless of what you feel or what others around you are saying. Thank you.
Cherise, the Poetic Maiden
P.S. I wrote a post on this after reading the article, your post, and other posts. In case you are at all interested, the address is http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/poeticvoice/538767/
[...] did. And, so, for Jocelyn to be presented with the article I read to her of a post entitled, A Former Witch Looks At The Lord Of The Rings, well, she did not want to believe it. This post is her reply, but you will find the original links [...]
Jocelyn you are a treasure! Praise God for your boldness. Thank you so much for sharing your convictions. I believe God will be using this. I’m sharing your post thought Stumble and delicious.
Oh sweet Jocelyn,
I so admire you for standing up for that which God has convicted you of! I know it’s tough to do, especially as a young lady.
God convicts us all of different things and Rah! to you for listening!
Miss Jocelyn,
I found your blog through a series of links and was immediately drawn to this article (I never read LOTR, but I’m grew up with Narnia the same way you did with LOTR :) ). Thank you for putting so much obvious thought and prayer into your words, and for being strong enough to stand by your convictions.
I sound like a broken record compared to other comments, but “although I don’t agree with everything you wrote,” :) you are very courageous to write it. Don’t be afraid of criticism! It lets you know that you’ve got people thinking. :)
I admire your heart for the Lord!
Your Sister in Christ,
Jasmine
Jasmines last blog post..Sticks and Stones
Your sacrifice of something that meant so much to you is commendable. I also felt very uncomfortable reading the first book it the LOTR series. Jesus has promised us so much that giving up things like this is not worthy to be compared with the eternal rewards we will someday receive.
Hello Jocelyn. I know that this was posted quite some time ago~ but I have to comment.
I agree totally with you on the Harry Potter thing, I have nothing to do with that, and I don’t want to.
But the Narnia and LOTR things, I do NOT agree with you on. I think that Narnia is a Christian symbolism; even if there are ‘weird creatures’ in it. It’s a ‘fantasy’ story, so it has NOTHING to do with the ‘real world’. Those creatures were in a different world, that’s why they weren’t in ‘God’s image’.
You don’t have to agree with me, I don’t expect you to, but I said my piece, and I hope you just consider what I’m saying.
~Ashley
Hi Ashley –
I don’t agree with you and I have, absolutely, thought about what you are saying. I don’t think people who read this post understand what I gave up as far as something that was “my special thing”.
I would encourage you to read this post AND all the comments: http://aponderingheart.com/blog/?p=1004 I would like to see your Scriptural basis for saying that allowing blatant witchcraft/magic is different from allowing good/bad witchcraft/magic. The only thing different from HP and the other two is most Christians do not accept HP, but most do accept LOTR and CON.
This subject has already been discussed to death, and I don’t think there is a scripture you can give me that proves your pov is correct or lines up with the Bible.
Dear Jocelyn,
I totally agree with you about LOTR and Narnia. I was faced with this same problem awhile back. My brother was really into LOTR and I thought it was creepy and bad. After awhile I started to like it. We watched the first Narnia movie and when Prince Caspian came out my parents began to feel that they did not like the magic. One morning they sat us down and told us that they had decided that they did not want us watching things with magic in them.
I see now what is the matter with LOTR, Narnia, and the rest. No one can say that Eragon doesn’t have magic. I read the first 2 books and that was about all they were.
Great post!
Saved Girls last blog post..Love this song
Jocelyn, I appreciate your obedience to the Lord’s leading. No matter what the subject or controversy it stirs up in people, you followed God. That in itself is being an excellent role-model.
Autumn Becks last blog post..Death Always Hurts
Oh, how this saddens me. This world is full of people who are lost without Christ. I say this again–people are LOST WITHOUT CHRIST!
Our new president is determined to put an end to the respect of unborn life. (Abortion, stem cell research, etc.) The divorce rate is at an all-time high, and teenage pregnancy is rampant. I totally respect your opinion, but as a sister in Christ, I have to ask: What does this matter in Eternity? Seriously.
I have many friends who are fans of Harry Potter, Twilight, and Lord of the Rings, myself included. It’s entertainment. Would I watch these movies with Jesus? Yes, I would. Would He watch with me? I don’t know…I’ll ask Him when I get to Glory.
Jesus, Holy as He is, wasn’t afraid to hang with the least of these. Were he walking in the flesh today, do not doubt for one second that he wouldn’t be at the local bar…at the tattoo parlor…on the streets, ministering to the homeless, the druggies, and the prostitues. Jesus came to seek and to save that which is lost. That was His ministry, plain and simple.
Legalism is destroying Christianity. Do you think one person will come to know the Lord because you speak out against movies such as Lord of the Rings? Please understand, I am speaking the Truth in love, as a fellow Believer.
I cannot wait to get to Heaven, to hear my Lord and Savior tell me, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” I know my God will not chastise me for being a fan of the Lord of the Rings movies. Not when a dying world needs to hear about HIM.
Let’s stick to what’s important here, shall we? It’s souls. Not personal movie preferences.
Hi Leigh Anne
Thank you for the comment, but since it’s of obviously small matter to you I wonder why you even took the time to write it. It did nothing to encourage me in the faith, but was full of mockery and contempt. I obviously live in this world, and the things you mentioned are not unknown to me.
If these things were not important to our lives as Christians they wouldn’t be in the Bible. Everything we do is a witness, good or bad, for Christ. Doesn’t matter how big or small it is. Saying to stay away from things involving witches for pleasure is not legalism. It’s Biblical. Besides to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ to live holy in this way is doing nothing BUT encouraging them. We are to sharpen one another as iron sharpens iron (that’s Biblical too) and that is what I’m doing WITH the Scriptures.
You’re right Jesus was out ministering to people. He would minister to the drunk, but he definitely wouldn’t go have a drink with him. He wouldn’t be in the bars as “His” time as watching LOTR is for us. He certainly wouldn’t agree with Christians going to the bar in the way we spend time partaking in media.
I am doing the same with my site as Jesus did during his ministering years. I am there, worldwide, sharing what the Lord has placed on my heart, and not condemning, but praying for those who do such things (like read/watch things containing witchcraft) that the Lord has convicted me of. Jesus has more important things to do than to watch any type of movies with you, especially ones containing satanism.
Yes, the Lord can and has used that post in many peoples’ lives in their walk and love for Him. He does and will use anything you wholly surrender to Him.
When we get to the Throne every sin, even the little ones, will be put to our name there is no doubt in that and it’s silly to think that just because there are bigger problems out there that the littles don’t matter. The Lord says “be ye holy as I am holy” and that is what I’m striving to do.
Legalism…. Jesus would have been called that too. I consider it an honour.