Bethiepooh

Dravin: I didn’t realize, until this instance, that pride really is related to every sin. From every challenge, we learn things, right? Mordorbund: I agree that the attitude will be more difficult than the sin to repent of. It’s not easy to put the natural man aside, regardless of whether it’s the physical natural man or the emotional/mental natural man. Tarnished: There came a point where the consequence didn’t matter. It’s at that point that you know it’s not the Lord that has your heart/soul/whatever-you-wanna-call-it. Thank you for your comments, as I can relate to a lot of what you’ve said.

I don't necessarily know if pride was the root of it in the beginning. I think it was more of a "make me happy" (selfish?) thing and now, unintentionally (but, apparently, it can't be that unintentional if I am still doing it, right?), it has started again and I am not necessarily willing to "give it up" at this time. I do believe it is sinful and serious. However, in the disciplinary council last night, I was asked if I realize the consequences of my action if I was to get ex'ed (which I was). I said that I understand clearly the literal sense (in this life) but, as far as the Plan of Salvation, I am not sure it's something I can comprehend as far as the consequence(s). They didn't bother going over any details with me to help me understand but, I suppose, when I feel I am ready, I will look into that myself. I am pretty confident this decision doesn't necessarily offer anything worthwhile. You're understanding - I just have a hard time explaining myself in this one....LOL

Loudmouth_Mormon: I didn’t realize that ex-communication is different for everyone. I am well aware of the purpose of a DC. When I went through one years ago, it was a much more positive experience than this one, granted different bishop/different ward, which has made a HUGE difference. As dis-fellowshipped members can’t pray at church, have a calling or give talks, I would hope that a ex-ed member couldn’t as well, as it’s more serious of a “consequence.” Wingnut/needing advice: - Thank you. I have pulled up that article and will read it (if I haven’t done so already; even if I have, it’s a good refresher). Wingnut: Thank you for the explanation of the gift of the Holy Ghost v. the influence. That makes absolutely PERFECT sense to me. Flavius: I am pretty confident that, in the last DC I had, the bishop said that the reason I wasn’t ex’ed then is b/c he didn’t want to take the Holy Ghost away from me. I thought that was harsh but, understandably (at least I think so), I believed that. Very good point about why I wouldn’t have the Holy Ghost with me during this difficult time. Thank you. Prisonchaplain: The sin isn’t something I “need” per se, it’s something I want/choose to do. Why? Pride and nothing but. The fact that I have a testimony and am still doing wrong is something the bishopric is having a very difficult time understanding. I am not sure how to get them to understand. It’s not that I don’t believe. I am just choosing not to practice all of the principles of the gospel. To me, there’s a HUGE difference. I think that one comes to that place when they let pride become more important than their relationship with the Lord. Yikes, that kind of hits home as I type it. Sweetiepie: Just b/c we are members and have been for an extended period of time doesn’t mean we won’t fall. We all fall, some of us further than others. I WILL be back and I KNOW I will (granted I get ex’ed) but, unfortunately, right now, pride has taken over. I think that, if I went to the bishop about the most recent occurrence, I would have a much more repentant heart. I’m well aware that Satan has got me right now, at least to a certain degree. I also believe that we all go through trials for a reason. I know one thing that I have gained a testimony of already through this and it’s fellowship. Dravin: - I like your comments about the natural man. Would that be synonymous with pride? I think, to a certain extent, it would be…? - The “sin now and repent later” is also synonymous with pride, isn’t it? Bytor: I enjoyed your comments – thank you. I will be at my DC in about 40 minutes. Sadly, I am planning on being ex-communicated. I planned on it the first time but I wasn't. It did keep me from sinning for a little while but then I am right back into the trap but this time, I have a much different attitude (not necessarily a good thing). I know that, regardless of the outcome, this whole thing is for my better in the end.

I participated in a DC a few months ago. At first, I went to my bishop but, over time, I didn't care to talk to him so he initiated contact a few months after that, which resulted in further confession to more progressed sin in the same category. Now, a few months after the first DC where I was disfellowshipped (not the first time), I am not necessarily regretful for the actions I have taken. The bishop very well knows this. He received approval from the Stake President to proceed with another DC. So, this will occur in a few days. I know that, when you are ex-communicated, you can no longer wear the temple garment (I am an endowed member) or pay tithing. I am pretty confident this is correct but please tell me if this is wrong. I know that the Holy Ghost is "taken" from you but I am curious as to this procedure, if there is one. How is the result of ex-communication handled in the DC? Or is it? On the other hand, I know that I will come back but just not right now (obviously). I believe the things the gospel teaches and I always will. I know they are there for a reason and I have just used my agency in a certain aspect that is frowned upon by the Lord.

Of course, I am cool - I'm from Texas.

I will ABSOLUTELY eat some Tex-Mex for you, arid! Thanks, UrbanFool.

You are correct, Lucread. If my testimony was as strong as it should be, I wouldn't have done the things I have done or have a desire to continue them. I was a hair away from being ex'ed and, if I mess up again, I will be. My pride wants to mess up but everyone else doesn't. Funny how pride wins sometimes over the entire world. FYI: I am female. ;-)

This is very related to this post but not sure it addresses the new Family Search. If a member is excommunicated (granted, they are no longer a "member"), can they access that website with the temple ordinance dates? If so, that's great. If not, isn't that kinda silly considering that person may be genuinely trying to work on "church stuff," keeping themselves distracted from things in "life" that may have caused them to be excommunicated? It seems counter-productive to me but maybe I am just "slow." LOL

Good lazy Sunday afternoon, everyone! I am from Houston, Texas and have been a member "all" of my life (parents converted when I was a "tot"). I've had my ups and downs and thought I gained a testimony but, apparently, not strong enough, as I will soon have a disciplinary council and am pretty sure I will be ex'ed, which I will have to tell my active parents. Anywho, I joined because I have browsed the board before and thought it could be of some benefit/informal education on a few things. I look forward to spending time here (but not too much, of course ).