A Christian Merfolk Fellowship Thread

[MerShellly]

I thought I'd create a Christian corner for any Christian mers who would like to share testimonies, prayer requests, favorite songs and verses, questions, prophesies you've enjoyed, etc.

This way we can read each other's posts and post on the thread any time, any day- like weekly meetups only they're 24/7 internet "meetups"! And afterall, strength is in numbers (Or in a school of fish)...(mermaid pun...heh heh...um).

Today I learned that God's full salvation isn't once and for all, that there are stages- the spirit, the soul, and the body. Although God comes into our spirit through the initial stage, our soul is still full of Satan's nature. Like today I was enjoying in the Lord through reading the Bible and singing, but I will admit I threatened to kick a guy in the shin if he filmed me on his phone, so...I guess I'm not exactly to the second stage yet. But I know that doesn't happen overnight. It takes a whole lifetime. I am still trying to understand what the meaning of the 3rd stage is though. Our group leader said it's the "completing stage," so maybe the 3rd stage is death? I'm still confused and trying to figure the last one out myself.

[deepblue]

FYI, there's a pretty active thread for Christian mers here: http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?5735-Any-Christian-Mermaid-Mermen-out-there

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Oh that's a cool idea!

I think that the third stage talks about being of good also with the body, so it's the point when you can resist to any "animal impulse".

I think that because last summer my priest made read a letter from saint Augustine and he was speaking to a crowd telling them that he wished they could resist to any physical desire as he could do (in this case he was talking about the desire of the body of the beloved one and in general) because when you completely belong to God also with the body you don't need it.

But I'm sure the meaning doesn't stop here!


Ok now I share what I learned 😁
My priest made me read lots of biographies of many saints lifes and I understood that they where common people like us and not an unreachable model of life so now when it comes to think that God wants me to become a saint (meaning that I am expected to live in the way he wants) I know that I still have to work a lot but at the end I'll do it without losing the hope to be like he wants me to be (because everyone thinks that it's impossible to be a saint forgetting that God knows very well that we're humans and we can fail).

Even if I understood this I know there's still lots I don't understand because when it comes to act or think in the best way I can for God and then I speak to my priest I find out that I understand barely only the surface of what means being catholic even if I try to do the best of me!

[MerShellly]

Oh that's a cool idea!

I think that the third stage talks about being of good also with the body, so it's the point when you can resist to any "animal impulse".

I think that because last summer my priest made read a letter from saint Augustine and he was speaking to a crowd telling them that he wished they could resist to any physical desire as he could do (in this case he was talking about the desire of the body of the beloved one and in general) because when you completely belong to God also with the body you don't need it.

But I'm sure the meaning doesn't stop here!


Ok now I share what I learned 
My priest made me read lots of biographies of many saints lifes and I understood that they where common people like us and not an unreachable model of life so now when it comes to think that God wants me to become a saint (meaning that I am expected to live in the way he wants) I know that I still have to work a lot but at the end I'll do it without losing the hope to be like he wants me to be (because everyone thinks that it's impossible to be a saint forgetting that God knows very well that we're humans and we can fail).

Even if I understood this I know there's still lots I don't understand because when it comes to act or think in the best way I can for God and then I speak to my priest I find out that I understand barely only the surface of what means being catholic even if I try to do the best of me!
Oh ok, that's starting to make a bit more sense. When I heard the stage was about the body, I was like "So...you're saying we shouldn't get tattoos or like-???" hahaha

I don't think it'd be that impossible, a long journey and tough, but possible. I bet they must have a good understanding of the Bible too. I started reading the Bible when I was 12 and all my other Christian friends that age had already had verses memorized, knew the meanings behind some of the parables and the basic 'anatomy' of the tabernacle, etc. And I was all, "Wait- there are more BOOKS in this Bible?? 66 of them?? And who is this Moses you speak of?"

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Oh ok, that's starting to make a bit more sense. When I heard the stage was about the body, I was like "So...you're saying we shouldn't get tattoos or like-???" hahaha

I don't think it'd be that impossible, a long journey and tough, but possible. I bet they must have a good understanding of the Bible too. I started reading the Bible when I was 12 and all my other Christian friends that age had already had verses memorized, knew the meanings behind some of the parables and the basic 'anatomy' of the tabernacle, etc. And I was all, "Wait- there are more BOOKS in this Bible?? 66 of them?? And who is this Moses you speak of?"


I know exactly what you're talking about!
When my priest made me look at the whole amount of books I had to read if I wanted to understand something I was like "I think that one life won't be enough!".

For the saints I thought it was impossible because they are depicted so perfectly by our society that in certain moment you start disliking them!
But reading how their life was I understood they were like us you and immediately changed my mind about them

[Lotus the Mermaid]

From what I understand from Scripture, (genuine) conversion equates to salvation that is forever, but the sanctification is a process that requires constant prayer, vigilance, and effort as we seek to become like Him. So we don't have to fear our souls slipping away. I can add some verses if anyone would like them! I hope that helps!

Also, prayer request: I have a friend who's dating someone who's not a believer, and she's feeling horrible about it and crying ant it almost constantly when we talk, but she's so in love with him (even though he's kind of a narcissist) that she doesn't want to let go. But it's tearing her up inside. We've talked many times about it and she's afraid of spreading her mind with him. It's just not a healthy relationship so please, pray for her. D;

Does anyone else have any prayer requests? <3

[MerShellly]

@Mermaid Kassandra- They definitely look like superhumans (spiritually obviously lolz). So I take it that it's more dedication since there are a lot of Christians that are more on the lazy and/or disobedient side, yet we have to do like what Lotus_Blooming said: prayer, vigilance, and effort.

@Lotus_Blooming- I learned that during my truth school this week but they didn't give us any verses (not that I can remember anyway). That would be awesome! :)And I'll definitely pray for that!! My only prayer atm is for my family to have a safe to and from Florida this month and for my mom to feel better.

[TritonsGuard]

Lotus is correct that salvation is forever once obtained (John 10:28, Ephesians 2:8-9, and of course the one everyone should know John 3:16), and that sanctification is the on going process. We can never be perfect, and the works that we do, no matter what they are, can not save us. Let me use an analogy (this one a lot darker then my usual ones). Without Jesus we are more helpless then a new born baby, that no one knows exists, that is bobbing in the middle of the Pacific ocean, during a storm, in the middle of the night. Just as the frail movements of the child can not save him or her, so too will our works never get us closer to salvation. The only thing that we need to do to be saved is to believe and trust in him for our salvation alone. It would be as if someone through all the darkness, saw that child, and plucked him or her from the water.
Another (this one I was thinking of turning into a comic) goes like this. A man seeking a way to save himself went to someone who said he could point the man in the right direction. When he arrived at the site where they agreed to meet, his guide was standing in front of a wall. One that he could not see the top of. The guide says "it's at the top." The man looked at the wall's base then tipped his head back as far as he could. He could not tell how tall the wall was. Also, there were so few hand holds that even experts would have more trouble then they could handle. Worse yet, there was no rope or place to put an anchor in the wall. Even if he could fall down safely, he would have to start all over. The man asked the guide "how tall is this wall?" the guide responded "I can't say. We don't have anything that measures that far." The man looked again and said "there is no way I, let alone anybody, can climb that." The guide says "when did I say you had to climb?" The man then asks "what other choice do I have?" The guide points towards another part of the wall. The man sees a person there that he had not noticed before. The guide then says "ask the elevated operator. I've never seen him turn anyone down."

Good works are what we should do to show our love for Christ because he died for us, so we could have a chance.

Lotus I will continue my prayers for your friend.

[TritonsGuard]

Hey. If we started a pod for Christians, we could call it "The Sunday School." :p

[Mermaid Kassandra]

QUOTE=Lotus_Blooming;207380]From what I understand from Scripture, (genuine) conversion equates to salvation that is forever, but the sanctification is a process that requires constant prayer, vigilance, and effort as we seek to become like Him. So we don't have to fear our souls slipping away. I can add some verses if anyone would like them! I hope that helps!

Also, prayer request: I have a friend who's dating someone who's not a believer, and she's feeling horrible about it and crying ant it almost constantly when we talk, but she's so in love with him (even though he's kind of a narcissist) that she doesn't want to let go. But it's tearing her up inside. We've talked many times about it and she's afraid of spreading her mind with him. It's just not a healthy relationship so please, pray for her. D;

Does anyone else have any prayer requests? <3[/QUOTE]

I will for sure party for her!
And yes I would like to read some verses as I'm young and probably I don't know/noticed them when I read.

Also you know Lotus that only salvation seems to take forever and do we have a way to understand when we are safe? There's a feeling of it?

There are lots of things I still don't understand like vigilance, I thought that only trying to follow Jesus words and try to behave like him was ok but after one year I spoke again with my priest and he said me that I was far away from God and going on in the speech I felt I understood nothing, it's like a mess even if I'm trying to do my best but at this point I'm a bit confused and I have no idea of how being a good Christian you know?



@Mermaid Kassandra- They definitely look like superhumans (spiritually obviously lolz). So I take it that it's more dedication since there are a lot of Christians that are more on the lazy and/or disobedient side, yet we have to do like what Lotus_Blooming said: prayer, vigilance, and effort.

@Lotus_Blooming- I learned that during my truth school this week but they didn't give us any verses (not that I can remember anyway). That would be awesome! :)And I'll definitely pray for that!! My only prayer atm is for my family to have a safe to and from Florida this month and for my mom to feel better.


Oh Mermaid Carly I'll pray for your family too!

I saw what you wrote and I'm curios about the "disobedient side"you're taking about as one day I was very sad and I was wondering why God let a bad thing happen to me even if I was trying to be a good Christian and my priest told me that my behave was of a rebel one because I didn't want to accept that situation but the point is that I read that when you're of God you've nothing to fear so that I still don't understand why he lets some things happen just like he is watching tv while we struggle h here asking for His help.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I hope these help!!!

Romans 8:38
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.

Romans 10:9
If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 8:1
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 3:17
Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong.

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Yes!
The first one gives a great idea of how strong is God's love for us!

Thank you very much indeed!!😁

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I'll be praying for every prayer request! Just FYI! Sorry I didn't get a chance to write that before as my phone was about to die! :'>

[Lotus the Mermaid]

From what I understand from Scripture, (genuine) conversion equates to salvation that is forever, but the sanctification is a process that requires constant prayer, vigilance, and effort as we seek to become like Him. So we don't have to fear our souls slipping away. I can add some verses if anyone would like them! I hope that helps!

Also, prayer request: I have a friend who's dating someone who's not a believer, and she's feeling horrible about it and crying ant it almost constantly when we talk, but she's so in love with him (even though he's kind of a narcissist) that she doesn't want to let go. But it's tearing her up inside. We've talked many times about it and she's afraid of spreading her mind with him. It's just not a healthy relationship so please, pray for her. D;

Does anyone else have any prayer requests? <3

I will for sure party for her!
And yes I would like to read some verses as I'm young and probably I don't know/noticed them when I read.

Also you know Lotus that only salvation seems to take forever and do we have a way to understand when we are safe? There's a feeling of it?

There are lots of things I still don't understand like vigilance, I thought that only trying to follow Jesus words and try to behave like him was ok but after one year I spoke again with my priest and he said me that I was far away from God and going on in the speech I felt I understood nothing, it's like a mess even if I'm trying to do my best but at this point I'm a bit confused and I have no idea of how being a good Christian you know?





Oh Mermaid Carly I'll pray for your family too!

I saw what you wrote and I'm curios about the "disobedient side"you're taking about as one day I was very sad and I was wondering why God let a bad thing happen to me even if I was trying to be a good Christian and my priest told me that my behave was of a rebel one because I didn't want to accept that situation but the point is that I read that when you're of God you've nothing to fear so that I still don't understand why he lets some things happen just like he is watching tv while we struggle h here asking for His help.

Oh, sweetheart. I will give you some verses for that!

First, God's heart for this destructive world:
2 Peter 3:9
The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.

As for what the priest said to you, here's a verse for that:
1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

Even strong Christians are fallible humans. We all have maturing to do.

And finally, the question you asked. "How do I know I'm saved?" We see the answer in one of the verses I posted previously! Romans 10:9 states that "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Do you believe that? If so, then you have absolutely nothing to worry about! Sometimes, salvation comes with the baptism of the Holy Spirit and you can feel His presence in that moment. Sometimes, it's an intellectual awakening and understanding. Each person comes to the Lord differently, which gives us each a unique testimony. But we all acquire salvation the same way: belief in Jesus. I will say this, though, once you have believed on Jesus, if you haven't felt His presence yet, there is nothing wrong with you! However, I strongly recommend you pray and ask for Him to baptize you with His Spirit because it's such a wonderful experience! It doesn't have to involve speaking in tongues, dancing, or jumping and running (though all of those are beautiful Biblical responses and I myself dance fairly often in church during worship), but it's just a feeling of ultimate completeness. I truly hope that helps! :)

[MerShellly]

I love that Ephesians 3:17!
I also have some verses concerning times of struggle and/or goal seeking.

Deuteronomy 31:6- Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you.

Hebrews 13:5b-6 - God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?"

Proverbs 16:3- Commit to the LORD in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.

Psalm 55:22- Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the Godly to slip and fall.

@TritonsGuard- :lol: Yes that would be great!

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Oh, sweetheart. I will give you some verses for that!



First, God's heart for this destructive world:

2 Peter 3:9

The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.



I will say this, though, once you have believed on Jesus, if you haven't felt His presence yet, there is nothing wrong with you! However, I strongly recommend you pray and ask for Him to baptize you with His Spirit because it's such a wonderful experience! It doesn't have to involve speaking in tongues, dancing, or jumping and running (though all of those are beautiful Biblical responses and I myself dance fairly often in church during worship), but it's just a feeling of ultimate completeness. I truly hope that helps! :)



I now understand!

Those are the words I had to hear!

I have to confess that my worry was that one: I was expecting to feel different or not feeling alone anymore but nothing, I felt exactly the same and I was worrying if it was because my faith in Jesus want strong enough or I was doing something wrong!

I will follow your advice and pray Him to have the grace of feeling Him near me just once!










I love that Ephesians 3:17!
I also have some verses concerning times of struggle and/or goal seeking.


Hebrews 13:5b-6 - God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?"

Proverbs 16:3- Commit to the LORD in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.

Psalm 55:22- Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the Godly to slip and fall.

@TritonsGuard- :lol: Yes that would be great!







Mermaid Carly those words are the ones that makes me wonder why too often there are some tragical facts happening in our lives and in this world.

I feel helpless and hopeless and my faith starts to doubts about this: if He never abandon us why lots of innocent people always pay for someone's cruelty?? What is Good doing in this occasions???

It makes me feel like he's just watching our life like we watch TV I don't know if you understand what I mean

[MerShellly]

@Mermaid Kassandra- I understand what you mean down to the T! When I was little, I imagined God was watching us by tons of little TVs in a room like mall cops and nighttime security guards do.
But remember God will judge those people for their cruelty (2 Corinthians 5:10)! I know that when a person does something wrong and gets away scot-free, the fact that God'll take care of the punishment gives me some closure. Their sins will be shouted from the rooftops!

I think God tests us to reveal our weaknesses, to test our faith, and to draw us closer to Him. I once read about a man who had never been religious before but became a believer when his daughter died at ate 4. Plus I don't think God ever gives us more than we can handle, and he promises in Hebrews and Deuteronomy that He will never forsake us. There are also probably other articles online that answer the question more in depth.

One of my old middle school teacher's sent me this email right around the time you posted that question on the thread, so I think I'll quote what she had sent me: :)

"Although I cannot fully understand why God allows sufferings, I do believe His heart is full of love and compassion toward us so that in the midst of suffering He would gain something that is precious and of eternal spiritual value that no one may realize, not even us. Also, the Lord Jesus became the life-giving Spirit so that He could be life and everything to us in the midst of any circumstance whether good or bad. Though I prayed to receive the Lord and got baptized when I was young, I started to really touch Him within and got filled with His supply of life by reading the Bible and praying aloud. This especially supplied me when I was suffering with the autoimmune issues. Even when nothing was changing outwardly, Jesus replaced the pain and heaviness with His peace and strength."

She also encouraged my mom and I to say this prayer (she really is an awesome woman!): "Lord, You are real, but be real to me. Lord Jesus, fill me with Yourself that You may conquer the death operating in me and all negative things. Give life and healing to my spirit, soul, and body. Reveal Yourself to me and the way You want me to take. Amen."

[Mermaid Kassandra]

You're answer almost made me cry!

Your teacher is really an awesome and strong woman!
I'll make treasure of what you said and I agree with you He tries to reveal our weaknesses but sometimes I really don't understand Him.

I also know that we suffer also on this earth because of our sins but yesterday I had a talk with a sweet friend of mine and she was feeling very low because she is losing her grandfather in those days and she also told me she lost her boyfriend in a tragical way where she was involved (an incident from a roc on the sea) and an uncle, all people she loved deeply, and now she suffers also a rare illness that no one knows and it seems she'll be paralyzed for the rest of her life.

I said to her that I wanted to pray for her to get better and she told me "no you mustn't do it!" when I asked why she didn't want me to do so she told me that because of all this suffering for her God doesn't exist so I was doing something useless.

I know God was suffering hearing this (and I was too I must admit) buy thinking about this actually maybe I would have the sane thoughts about God.

And now the question is "is she that bad that God makes her suffer in this way? Our is she paying for someone's sins?

Because I really can't explain myself this situation, it sounds only completely wrong and unfair!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

You're answer almost made me cry!

Your teacher is really an awesome and strong woman!
I'll make treasure of what you said and I agree with you He tries to reveal our weaknesses but sometimes I really don't understand Him.

I also know that we suffer also on this earth because of our sins but yesterday I had a talk with a sweet friend of mine and she was feeling very low because she is losing her grandfather in those days and she also told me she lost her boyfriend in a tragical way where she was involved (an incident from a roc on the sea) and an uncle, all people she loved deeply, and now she suffers also a rare illness that no one knows and it seems she'll be paralyzed for the rest of her life.

I said to her that I wanted to pray for her to get better and she told me "no you mustn't do it!" when I asked why she didn't want me to do so she told me that because of all this suffering for her God doesn't exist so I was doing something useless.

I know God was suffering hearing this (and I was too I must admit) buy thinking about this actually maybe I would have the sane thoughts about God.

And now the question is "is she that bad that God makes her suffer in this way? Our is she paying for someone's sins?

Because I really can't explain myself this situation, it sounds only completely wrong and unfair!

This verse helps me with situations like that.

James 1:17 NLT
Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

We have to remember the devil exists and causes suffering, but the Lord will turn it into goodness for our sakes. Through prayer and faith, you can bring hope to your friend in an amazing way! I'll pray, too!!

[Mermaid Kassandra]

This verse helps me with situations like that.

James 1:17 NLT
Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

We have to remember the devil exists and causes suffering, but the Lord will turn it into goodness for our sakes. Through prayer and faith, you can bring hope to your friend in an amazing way! I'll pray, too!!


Thank you very much indeed Lotus you're such a kind mermaid! ❤

Yes I'll pray Him to give her a sign of His existence and really thank you for praying with me!

As for your friend how's going?
Is the man she's dating changing his mind a bit?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you very much indeed Lotus you're such a kind mermaid! ❤

Yes I'll pray Him to give her a sign of His existence and really thank you for praying with me!

As for your friend how's going?
Is the man she's dating changing his mind a bit?
Thank you very much! As are you! ^.^

That's wonderful! I'll be sure to pray for her at least once everyday!

I haven't gotten any updates from my friend, but my biggest concern is that she's in a relationship with him. It's really breaking her heart and yet, she hasn't learned how important it is to her that she date a believer. And how important it is to God that she not allow herself to be drawn away from Him by this guy. Anyway, I definitely hope and pray that the Lord minister to her boyfriend and save him, but since my sister (in Christ) is in a hurtful situation, that's what's got most of my attention at the moment. x-x;

Thank you so much for asking!! I'll be sure to let you guys know if and when anything changes!!

[MerShellly]

I am going to be away for next week and a half to visit my great grandmother, and she has no wifi. :( I shall say hello when I get back and I'll continue to pray as well!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

https://youtu.be/jU9Wz4GnAIw

This is one of my favorite worship songs. And as a mermaid, I love the ocean so that may be one reason why! :)
Hope you guys like it!!

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Lotus I understand perfectly what you mean!
Well maybe he'll convert this guy, I really hope!

I'll listen to the song as soon as I can but I'm sure it's wonderful!

Mermaid Carly don't worry have fun visiting your grandma we'll be here waiting for you 😉

[TritonsGuard]

I am glad to see the "Sunday School" is still going strong, for I have been away from it to long (ha ha ha)

I am sorry about your friend Lotus, and I hope the methods I have sent you help you.

I have a few prayer requests.

The first is for our fellow mers here. So many of them do not walk (or swim) with him. For a lot of them, the environment has take the place where Jesus should be. The ocean is one of the countless extraordinarily wondrous gifts that God has blessed us with, and we are called to be wise in what we do, but we must never forget the greatest of gifts that he gave us, his son. I pray that they see that as beautiful as this world is, it pales in comparison to him.

Until recently, I had been in a terrible situation for over a year. I am getting better, but it still troubles me. Anger, regret, shame, disappointment, it all hits me from time to time. I do my best to look forward trying to focus on the now instead of the past, but it still comes back. I just want to be able to live with it, for it will probably never go away completely. Also, to be able to completely forgive those that wronged me is something I need to do. For me it is not just what they did, but also that they knew what they were doing and that it was wrong. From time to time, I can't help but wonder "why?" It sometimes keeps me up.

I am going to move to Utah soon. I don't know anyone there, and will be hundreds of miles from anyone I do. This is my next big step. I just hope that it is what God wants me to do.

May God be with you all.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I'm so sorry you've been dealing with those feelings, Tritons. I'll be praying for you and for your other prayer request as well! There are times that we need to stop and really pray for the Lord to help us get to the root of the issue. There may be a lie you've been believing for a while about yourself - either from something you've believed or something that someone spoke over you. It may have happened too far back for you to even remember it, but it could still be eating away at you. It's times like those during which it's best to just set aside time with the Lord to focus weeding out any of those lies. Praying for Him to reveal them is the best place to start. Then, speaking truths outloud can open up an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to speak through you against those lies. I've had to do this several times in my life and it's helped tremendously each time. I often won't even realize what the lies I've been believing are before the Holy Spirit just speaks out against them through me and I don't even realize I'm forming the words as they're coming out! It's pretty amazing how He can do that. I hope that helps, and like I said, I'll be praying! :)

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Triton reading your experience made me think to lots of things that happened to me and some friends, well if this helps I want to share with you what I learnt: if someone hurts you don't worry, Good never leaves an injustice to one of his sons unpunished.

For the rest I can only hope you would feel better and don't be afraid to move in a new city I'm sure you'll find new amazing friends really soon 😊

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you all so much for praying!!! My friend broke up with that guy today!!! Praise God!! She said she doesn't feel like she should really be in a relationship right now. Please, keep her in your prayers as she deals with the aftermath of that break up! It's going to be tough.

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Thank you all so much for praying!!! My friend broke up with that guy today!!! Praise God!! She said she doesn't feel like she should really be in a relationship right now. Please, keep her in your prayers as she deals with the aftermath of that break up! It's going to be tough.


I'm so happy to hear that!!! (even if it seems a bit strange we should be sad XD ).
Yes I'll keep on praying for her and I have an idea you can make her try the mermaiding experience it helped me out when I was in the same situation so it may help her too I think 😊

[MerShellly]

@Mermaid Lotus- That song is pretty! It makes you wonder how on earth a person could look at the beauty of the ocean or even outer space and still believe it was made by a big bang, an accident, by evolution.
And I’m really glad to hear your friend broke up with him (which haha yes that does sound strange to say). Mermaid Kassandra is right you should hand her a tail and tell her to “Just keep swim'n!” ;) :3

@TritonsGuard- That is so true! We should definitely pray for that! Also, I have a hard time forgiving too. I still haven’t been able to forgive some people, but what helps is focusing on the good people that are in your life, not the ones that have screwed you over. Keeping busy and doing fun things help meh too, so your not sitting there idly and begin to start thinking...

My trip to Florida and Tennessee went really well (aside from all the bugs trying to invade the house in FL). I’ve missed so much! By the way, has anyone watched Charles Stanely on television? I recommend watching his vids. I’ve never listened to Joel Osteen though (I heard about him 2 nights ago.) He sounds really motivational and I’ll have to watch some vids of his somehow. Do you guys have a favorite televangelist?

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Oh no I don't! From what I know here in Italy there aren't!
But it's interesting to hear that someone goes on TV to talk about our religion that isn't always the pope! (joking ;) )

Anyway what do this people usually do in TV? I really know nothing about that! 😁

[Lotus the Mermaid]

@Mermaid Lotus- That song is pretty! It makes you wonder how on earth a person could look at the beauty of the ocean or even outer space and still believe it was made by a big bang, an accident, by evolution.
And I’m really glad to hear your friend broke up with him (which haha yes that does sound strange to say). Mermaid Kassandra is right you should hand her a tail and tell her to “Just keep swim'n!” ;) :3

@TritonsGuard- That is so true! We should definitely pray for that! Also, I have a hard time forgiving too. I still haven’t been able to forgive some people, but what helps is focusing on the good people that are in your life, not the ones that have screwed you over. Keeping busy and doing fun things help meh too, so your not sitting there idly and begin to start thinking...

My trip to Florida and Tennessee went really well (aside from all the bugs trying to invade the house in FL). I’ve missed so much! By the way, has anyone watched Charles Stanely on television? I recommend watching his vids. I’ve never listened to Joel Osteen though (I heard about him 2 nights ago.) He sounds really motivational and I’ll have to watch some vids of his somehow. Do you guys have a favorite televangelist?

I feel the same way about God's Creation! In so glad your trip went well!

On the subject of televangelists, I usually don't see hear them speaking of the blood of Jesus (they trend to be more politically correct) so I take what they say with a grain of salt. The best way to test a preacher is to see if they preach the Gospel, the death and resurrection of Jesus, and that He is the only way to Heaven. If they do, they're doing their job well! That's my belief, anyway!

That being said, I've never heard Charles Stanley, but my sister in law loves him! I'd love to listen to one of his sermons sometime! (^.^)

[cletusk20]

I'm glad I found this thread (and the other Christian thread). It still gets me how God shows up where you least expect him.

[Mermaid Alea]

I need help getting into a routine of reading my Bible.

I went to a Christian school until middle school, and one of my classes was a Bible class. I was never good at Bible trivia and having to take tests on the Bible was difficult and it stressed me out so much because I feel like it is something so important that I wish I could memorize. I love how people can say something from the Bible off of the top of their head to make someone feel better. I have a horrible time remembering and understanding Biblical history too. Just recently in the church's college class we had a several part lesson on church history basically outlining how we became church of Christ and where our beliefs come from. I kid you not one Sunday morning our college minister would give a lesson and the next Sunday morning he would repeat the lesson but this time ask questions that I should have been able to answer because I listened to the last lesson but I couldn't remember any of it. Then my boyfriend is there next to me spouting off answers because he has always been really good at that stuff.

I haven't even memorized the order of the books in the Bible and I tried reading the whole Bible but once I got to the part about so and so begetting so and so I gave up.

All of this is very embarrassing for me to admit. :$

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Study bibles are good for that.
They are broken up into easily digestible chunks and have good stopping places so that you don't read too much in one sitting or stop in an awkward place.

Or daily bibles where you read a certain amount each day with the goal of reading it over the course of a year.

And if you get stuck (like the begatting bit) move on and come back to it later.

Maybe not the most helpful...

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Just checking in! How's everyone doing? :)

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Hi lotus!
Everything keeps going on here and my first university exam is as near as it never was!

How are you? And your friend how is she going?

[MerShellly]

@Mermaid Alea- I know exactly what you mean! The beginning of the Old Testament when the Israelites rebelled against God 10 times was the most confusing for me personally. I had never really read the Bible before, and on my first day of Bible class, they suddenly started saying the Lord's Prayer (which I had never heard before in my life) after the Pledge of Allegiance and I was literally thinking "WTF is going on???" Next they told us to flip to certain books in the Bible. I had no idea there were even "smaller books" in a Big Book and I couldn't keep up. Then they were talking about Moses and I was all "What's a Moses?" Then the Bible assignments came (and we HAD to read it in the King James Version) and I felt so out of place!

@Mermaid Lotus- I haven't been on really since school started. Everything's okay here with me and I hope everything is okay with you all! :)

[Luna Dreamtide]

Thought I'd join in and saying hi. I love the song Lotus shared earlier. It's one of my favourites.

[MerShellly]

Hello! :) Ikr that one's pretty. I think my favorite is "Jesus I Come", the slower version. 'Puts me at ease when I'm stressed.

[Luna Dreamtide]

Sounds lovely. On the topic of songs that calm you down, I love to sing a version of Somewhere Down the Road (by Amu Grant I think) when I have a anxiety attack. It really brings me out of it. I'm normally fine again by the time I finish the song :)

[MerShellly]

That's a really pretty song. Where did you first hear it from?

I also have a couple prayer requests. One of our friends "fell asleep" while driving in his company truck and wrecked it. He's out of the hospital and is doing okay now. But we're hoping he won't lose his job, and especially hoping that that won't happen again. We're thinking he fell asleep on the wheel from a medication he's taking. On top of all this, he's waiting on some test results to come back for prostate cancer. But the good news is that if he does have cancer, they will have caught it pretty early.
Also, this morning I woke up to find a dead cockroach by my door in my bedroom! (Which is weird because we ARE clean people, I swear lol.) We are thinking either one crawled into my suitcase from my friend's house (who does have a bit of a roach problem), into my backpack from school, or somehow one got in from the back door. I'm just hoping that's the only one we'll find. It's not a major problem because all we would have to do is spray around the perimeter of the house, but still, eeek!!!

[Luna Dreamtide]

I first heard Somewhere Down the Road on a Nashville CD inspired by the movie Prince of Egypt. I believe the singer was something like Faith Hill...
Will pray for your friend :)

[MerShellly]

Thank you! I haven't heard how he's doing in a few days but I plan to check back with him soon.

Also, I saw some neat quotes today that I wanted to share that I thought were really cool.
I've never really thought about it before, but I learned today that the opposite of karma is grace. The first quote is from Bono who is in the band U2: "It's a mind-blowing concept that the God who created the universe might be looking for company, a real relationship with people, but the thing that keeps me on my knees is the difference between Grace and Karma...You see, at the center of all religions is the idea of Karma. You know, what you put out comes back to you...And yet, along comes this idea called Grace to upend all that...Grace defies reason and logic. Love interrupts (if you like) the consequences of your actions, which in my case is very good news indeed, because I've done a lot of stupid stuff...I'd be in big trouble if Karma was going to finally be my judge...I'm holding out for Grace. I'm holding out that Jesus took my sins onto the Cross, because I know who I am, because I know who I am, and I hope I don't have to depend on my own religiosity."

I also love this quote by CS Lewis concerning desires: "Creatures are not born with desires unless satisfaction for those desires exists...If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world. If none of my earthly pleasures satisfy it, that does not prove that the universe is a fraud. Probably earthly pleasures were never meant to satisfy it, but only to arouse it, to suggest the real thing."

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Love it, Carly!

I'll be praying for your friend, as well. Medications are difficult, and I'm guessing he's going through a lot of stress at the prospect of losing his job, as well. Praying for peace and healing in the name of Jesus, and favor in the eyes of his bosses.

I have a request for a friend, as well. It's actually my brother-in-law. He's in an abusive relationship with this girl, and they're engaged. She's living with us at the moment, and he stays over all the time, so we've gotten to see their relationship up-close. Thankfully, they're not here very much, but I just have felt to pray that the Lord would pull the wool from his eyes. He's always making excuses for her abuse (and I'm referring to both emotional and scattered physical instances of abuse), so no one can talk sense into him. I believe it will have to be the Lord who ultimately pulls him out of this. Thankfully, they've pushed the wedding back to next March, and she's moving out in a month or so. This has been a very difficult summer, but the Lord proved Himself faithful each and every single time and showed that He had made a way through each circumstance before I had even experienced it. I love how He does that. :)

[MerShellly]

I'm sorry to hear about that (and sorry I haven't replied back in so long!). I will definitely be praying for them! That's good that you're there for them. :)

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Oh I'm so sorry to hear all this!
Lotus did you our his family tried to speak to him?

He needs to understand that this relationship will destroy him!
In so sorry!😞

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I'm sorry to hear about that (and sorry I haven't replied back in so long!). I will definitely be praying for them! That's good that you're there for them. :)

That's fine!! Thank you so much for your prayers! I hope your friend is doing better than before! :)

Is everyone else doing well? Any new praises or prayer requests? <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Oh I'm so sorry to hear all this!
Lotus did you our his family tried to speak to him?

He needs to understand that this relationship will destroy him!
In so sorry!

Yes, we have all tried to talk to him. My husband's family is very open about how they feel concerning their kids. (It's culturally normal, since they're all Puerto Rican). Unfortunately, he's delusional. It's really common in abusive relationships. He's convinced himself things like, "She doesn't know any better" and "If we can just ____, things will get better." At this point, only God can open his eyes. :<

[Mermaid Kassandra]

So he is finding explanations for her behavior.....
Did he talked to her? To let her know that the way she acts is unpleasant and non respective for him?

[Mermaid Enora]

Great posting going on here! Some of my favorite songs that I'm loving right now are by Phil Wickham esp. Carry My Soul and The Ascension.

[MerShellly]

So today me and one of my old teachers (all the way back from middle school) got together to read Revelation. We met at a bench next to a gas station. We each a read a verse out loud along with extremely long footnotes, and we had only 45 minutes to sit together. And, surprisingly, we only reached 5 verses! Not chapters, verses! A bus stop was close by, along with a food truck, and likewise there were people here and there. Something I've definitely learned today is that there are a lot more Christians out there then I had thought. People would walk by as we read and I'm thinking "I wonder if they can hear us.." One man got off his bike and sat down to listen to us read, and two young women who were sitting across from us came over and were like "Oh cool! You guys are doing a Bible reading!" It's so great to meet new people with their own testimonies, and talking about the Lord can really bring people together. :)

[MerShellly]

Also, I learned something pretty neat today. In Latin, "excruciating" translates as "out of the cross" (or something to that effect), since Jesus of course endured lots of pain for dying on the cross.

[Cove]

What a wonderful experience! Fellowship is so powerful :)

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[MerShellly]

What a wonderful experience! Fellowship is so powerful :)

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk
Thank you! I honestly never realized its power until now. I think I've found a new love in discussing the Bible with others. :3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Mermaid Carly, that's inspirational! I think often times, the media makes us afraid to share our faith because they chronicle the extreme negative reactions which are so few and far between in reality. But every time I've been brave enough to actually speak to someone as God calls me, they've either been super nice about it or even Christians themselves! I guess it's all about trusting Him, that He knows what we can handle. Haha :)

Thank you for sharing your experience! You've inspired me to have more Bible studies with friends! <3

Also, I love the root of "excruciating." It's the strongest descriptor of pain we have, and it points to what Jesus endured. Thank you! <3

[MerShellly]

Mermaid Carly, that's inspirational! I think often times, the media makes us afraid to share our faith because they chronicle the extreme negative reactions which are so few and far between in reality. But every time I've been brave enough to actually speak to someone as God calls me, they've either been super nice about it or even Christians themselves! I guess it's all about trusting Him, that He knows what we can handle. Haha :)

Thank you for sharing your experience! You've inspired me to have more Bible studies with friends! <3

Also, I love the root of "excruciating." It's the strongest descriptor of pain we have, and it points to what Jesus endured. Thank you! <3

Thank you! And yay that's great!!! I had no idea I would end up inspiring someone too. :3 I think we're probably going to do it again next week, but my teacher wants to do it somewhere less out in the open this time because we had only gotten through 5 verses.

[Luna Dreamtide]

That's so lovely to hear. Both about the bible reading and the people who stopped. It gives me hope :)
Itd be great do do such a thing myself, but I need to work on reading the Bible by myself first.

[Mermaid Alea]

Yesterday at church our preacher was talking about how God's presence is still around us even if sometimes it feels like everything happened back in Biblical times. He told us of an amazing story that people in different places around the world like the middle east are having these dreams where Jesus comes to them as a bright light and tells them he is Jesus, etc. The dream is consistent with all these different people from all over and the dream is causing them to change their mindset and change their faith. People aren't speaking out about it much for fear of being killed, but our preacher said that if we didn't believe him we could look it up.

So here are some links to these stories:
http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/onlinediscipleship/understandingislam/visions.aspx

http://www.wnd.com/2014/11/rising-number-of-muslims-reporting-dreams-about-jesus/

http://www.christianpost.com/news/report-isis-fighter-who-enjoyed-killing-christians-wants-to-follow-jesus-after-dreaming-of-man-in-white-who-told-him-you-are-killing-my-people-139880/

There are plenty more articles and some videos as well. This just really spoke to me on Sunday. <3

[MerShellly]

@Mermaid Alea- I heard about that actually from a missionary in Indonesia! :) He never had anything to back up what he said (not that I didn't believe him though) and thank you for posting those links!
And concerning most events happening back in Biblical times, the Jews were scattered until 1948 when Israel became a country right? That's one of the most significant events in these past centuries I can think of, or at least for the Jewish people.

That's sad to hear that they have to "lay low" out of fear. But (coincidentally enough) I read this morning about how persecution doesn't stop the spread of God's Kingdom. I learned how the Roman emperor Decius ordered the first wide-spread persecution of Christians, but his plan sort of backfired. The martyrs died so courageously that Christianity spread!

[Mermaid Alea]

I learned how the Roman emperor Decius ordered the first wide-spread persecution of Christians, but his plan sort of backfired. The martyrs died so courageously that Christianity spread!

I think that might have been what our old college minister talked about once. He really made sure not to leave out all the horrible torture techniques they used on Christians. He told us a particularly sad story of a young girl who they thought wouldn't last a day, but in fact she lasted a long time being tortured in just so many terrible ways. :( Her determination to not renounce her faith caused the men torturing her to grow tired and feel bad about torturing her so many of them stopped. The crowd watching even yelled to let her go.

I would hope I would be courageous and faithful enough to fight through something like that.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Yes! In actuality, persecution only ever causes the Church to grow. You can see it today with the persecuted Church in many nations overseas, like China, and even in the Middle East. The Lord Jesus had even revealed Himself to members of ISIS and dedicated Muslims in visions and dreams. This is confirmed in many pages in Scripture, bit the few that come to mind are the following verses.

Luke 19:38-40 NLT
"Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the LORD! Peace in heaven, and glory in highest heaven!"
But some of the Pharisees among the crowd said, "Teacher, rebuke your followers for saying things like that!"
He replied, "If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers!"

Acts 2:17 NLT
In the last days,' God says, 'I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams.

Romans 14:11 NLT
For the Scriptures say, "'As surely as I live,' says the LORD, every knee will bend to Me, and every tongue will confess and give praise to God.'"

He will not be silenced. :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I felt from the Lord to share with you guys a few worship songs that really speak to me. "Healer" by Kari Jobe in particular. I hope they bless you. <3


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2W88vWt30A


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVVlMQved8k


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=huFra1mnIVE

[Mermaid Sirenia]

Just came across this thread, so awesome!!

[Meghara July]

Ahh this is awesome! I knew there were a few Christian mers, but I didn't know you guys were on here :) Hi :D

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Welcome, Sirenia and July! ^.^

This thread has been a real blessing to me! I hope it is for you as well!

[Meghara July]

Thank you Lotus! Your eyes are so beautiful by the way!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you Lotus! Your eyes are so beautiful by the way!

Omg, you're too sweet! Thank you! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWRJAHaOrYg (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=pWRJAHaOrYg)
This is "Unbreakable" by Fireflight. It's extremely empowering! I hope you all are blessed by it!

Here are the lyrics:
Where are the people that accused me?
The ones who beat me down and bruised me
They hide just out of sight
Can't face me in the light
They'll return but I'll be stronger

[Chorus:]
God, I want to dream again
Take me where I've never been
I want to go there
This time I'm not scared
Now I am unbreakable, it's unmistakable
No one can touch me
Nothing can stop me

Sometimes it's hard to just keep going
But faith is moving without knowing
Can I trust what I can't see?
To reach my destiny
I want to take control but I know better

[Chorus]

Forget the fear it's just a crutch
That tries to hold you back
And turn your dreams to dust
All you need to do is just trust

[Chorus x2]

[Luna Dreamtide]

Thank you Lotus.

[MermaidCora]

Awesome! A Christian Merfolk thread? I love it!! :D I love all these song btw!! Makes my bad days get better!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Heck yes!! Same here!! ^-^

[MerShellly]

I'm really digging those Kari Jobe songs. I looked her up- she's from Waco! Now all I need is an emoji with a cowboy hat ;P

I just recently found out that the 80s band W.A.S.P. (the same band that made the songs "Animal- F*ck like a Beast," "Kill F*ck Die," etc.) is now making Christian music. The lead singer became a born-again Christian a while back, and he refuses to sing some of those old songs that he had written. I thought that was so neat!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kui8LLf9t6U

At first I was slightly confused by the lyrics, but later found out it's written in the perspective of one of the men hanging on the cross next to Him during the crucifixion.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I'm really digging those Kari Jobe songs. I looked her up- she's from Waco! Now all I need is an emoji with a cowboy hat ;P

I just recently found out that the 80s band W.A.S.P. (the same band that made the songs "Animal- F*ck like a Beast," "Kill F*ck Die," etc.) is now making Christian music. The lead singer became a born-again Christian a while back, and he refuses to sing some of those old songs that he had written. I thought that was so neat!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kui8LLf9t6U

At first I was slightly confused by the lyrics, but later found out it's written in the perspective of one of the men hanging on the cross next to Him during the crucifixion.
Awesome!! Just like Brain Welch. I love stories like that! ^^

[MerShellly]

Awesome!! Just like Brain Welch. I love stories like that! ^^ Oh yeah him too! :) I love to seeing rock stars converting to Christianity.

To all the rock stars out there: :mermaid kiss:

[Mermaid Alea]

Hey Mers, I was wondering if any of you will be going to Gulf Coast Getaway this weekend at Panama City Beach Florida?

I believe it is for high school seniors and college students. It isn't too late to go if you didn't know about it. If you are going let me know I would love to meet another Mer & worship our awesome God with you too! If you aren't coming with your own group then you are certainly welcome to join ours!

The beach will most likely be cold and windy, but I think I will bring my tail anyways and perhaps during some of the free time I will brave the cold to go for a swim.

Link: http://gulfcoastgetaway.org/

[Mermaid Alea]

I got back today from Gulf Coast Getaway. It was really good there were some good speakers but the worship was probably my favorite part. They had a wonderful worship team and I loved the way they set up the lighting and fog on the stage. I got to know some people a lot better and my boyfriend opened up to everyone about his struggle he had in his past - something he doesn't like to really talk about but it made some people cry and be even more inspired by who he is today so that was uplifting. I think our college ministry got stronger with this trip which we certainly need.

Another blessing is one of my old friends is texting me at the moment, and I had been thinking of him just recently hoping he is doing well so hopefully I can hang out with him again and see how he is. :)

[Luna Dreamtide]

That sounds amazing. How awesome for you!

[Mermaid Chloe-Marie]

I love this idea! Connecting with other Christian mers is quite lovely :) does anybody know how large this community is? Just to get a better perspective!

[MerShellly]

Thanks! :) And welcome! :) Well I don't know how big it is, to be honest. :/

[Mermaid Alea]

Haha roll call time!

I keep forgetting to post this here, but there is a new country song out by Tim McGraw called "Humble and Kind". It is such a beautiful song and it almost makes me cry when I listen to it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awzNHuGqoMc

[Luna Dreamtide]

Hmm I'd be curious to know how many of us there are too....

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I'm here! <3

[Mermaid Nelly]

Happy Easter!!! CHRIST HAS RISEN!!! [emoji1]

[Mermaid Russet]

Happy Easter everyone!! <3 Christ has risen indeed!

[Mermaid Nelly]

Food for thought (from Kluv radio station): praising God is recognizing Him for what He's DONE, worshiping God is recognizing Him for WHO HE IS. I want to have the abundant joy to praise Him and the depth in relationship to worship him! This really spoke to me and thought it may speak to some of you as well [emoji5][emoji177]

[Luna Dreamtide]

Food for thought (from Kluv radio station): praising God is recognizing Him for what He's DONE, worshiping God is recognizing Him for WHO HE IS. I want to have the abundant joy to praise Him and the depth in relationship to worship him! This really spoke to me and thought it may speak to some of you as well [emoji5][emoji177]
Nice. I love that. Thanks for sharing :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Wrote this to celebrate the Risen King! I just felt I should write something and God just took over. I hope it helps someone! :)

Jesus is alive and we are waiting as watchmen on the walls for His return! And just as Jesus died and rose again, He promises that His followers will not taste the sting of death. But even further, He promises that He can and will make all things new and set the captives free. But He also wants us to ask! Why? Because He wants us to make our own decisions through the gift of free will. Many times, He quietly intervenes to help us but there are many other times in which we are required to ask for His help in order for Him to step in. He is always willing and never burdened, but we need to invite Him into our lives on a daily basis!

If you're struggling with something and you feel like there's no hope, all you have to do is ask for Jesus to help you and He will! His will is perfect and He has all of your days written in His Book. Because He is always good and always perfect, sometimes His way of helping us doesn't feel fair to us. But He knows the future and knows you better than you know yourself. He knows that there are times we need to face hardships. There may be times when you ask for His help and it will seem as though He's not there. But He is. Jesus will carry your burdens and keep you safe. And along the way, He will teach you and help you to grow stronger!

I honestly can say that I didn't like myself before Jesus came and intervened in my life. He taught me through hardships. He led me to step out of my comfort zone so many times that that zone widened and I became comfortable doing things I never dreamed of. I had no idea that I was a slave to my own anxieties! I thought they kept me free to do what I wanted! But what I wanted was to stay in my little bubble where I was safe and comfortable.

Beloved, that is NOT living! A life worth living is LOUD and it's uncomfortable and it's painful! But it's also free and joyous and gentle! You can't find life sitting in your comfort zone. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the LIFE! He will lead you to be better and stronger, and to be able to enjoy life like you never dreamed you could!

You may have heard that Jesus died to save us from our sins, but what is a "sin"? How do you know that you even needed saving from them? How do you know that you've sinned? Every one of us has! Did you know that sins are things that we do that are spiritually unhealthy for us and enslave us, separating us from the life that Jesus wants to share with us? That is why they make God sad! Jesus wants us to be healthy and free, but it is in our very nature to sin!

If you'd like to learn how to accept Jesus into your life, please just pray this prayer either by yourself or with someone else:

"Jesus, I know that I have sinned and fallen short of the standard that You want me to live.
I've stayed inside my comfort zone and have been a slave to my own desires.
No more! I want to live! I choose You, my Savior who defeated death on the Cross!
Please, come into my heart and show me LIFE!
I will follow you all the rest of my days! Amen!"

Whoo! Tell someone you know who is earnestly following Jesus that you prayed that prayer and ask if they can help you to get plugged in to a local church! That can be your first step out of that comfort zone. It's tough, but so worth it! You can surround yourself there with others who chose LIFE!

If you have any questions about Jesus or the Gospel, please feel free to message me! I always enjoy talking about Jesus!

Bless you in Jesus' name!

Amen and Happy Easter! :)

[Luna Dreamtide]

That is beautiful Lotus! Thanks so much for sharing. I really felt it resonate with me - it's a good reminder. :)

[MerShellly]

Hello everyone! I hate I haven't said hello or anything in a while; just been very busy with life 'n all.

I wanted to ask a question- what does being a mermaid and a Christian mean to you?

For example, the early Catholic church used mermaids to symbolize the sins of the flesh, but of course symbolism can be different according to perspective. Mermaids may not be "real" real, but it fits perfectly into the imaginative realm of symbolism- just like how a clover could remind you of the Trinity, how a spider web can make you think of Satan trying to capture his prey, or how the moon is like our Savior, beautifully bright and guiding us through the dark. Personally I love how a "Mermaid of Zennor" online article said: "In medieval mystery plays in Cornwall, the mermaid was used to explain the two natures of Christ. Just as she was both human and fish, so Christ could be both human and divine."

[Luna Dreamtide]

That's a great question... One I've been not so sure on...

[Lotus the Mermaid]

To me it means combining my dreams with the love the Lord gave me to show to others. I truly have prayed hard over my dream to be a mermaid and have seen how the Lord wants me to not only share His love and guidance with children, but that other mers also need love and support as we all do! I fully believe that the Lord is pleased by this. The Scriptures say that everything is permissible, but not everything is edifying. If you feel that you aren't able to dedicate mermaiding to the Lord and use it to please Him and further the Kingdom, then it is possible that He's leading you in a different direction. But I personally believe that He is leading me to be a mermaid. And that it's actually a very important ministry! :)

I hope that blesses someone. <3

[Luna Dreamtide]

That's a beautiful way of putting it Lotus. That is what I have thought - if it does as little as bring joy to someone's day or make them smile, then it is worth doing.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Yes! Amen! I am so happy to know so many mers that feel the same! :)

[TritonsGuard]

I agree with Lotus. It is more important to ask yourself why you do something, how you do it, and what the effect it causes then whether or not you can do it. God created everything that is good in the universe, and did so as a way of showing his love for you. However, you must always remember that these things must not take the place of him in your heart. He created rules because he loves you, not because he wishes to torment you. As long as you do something to praise him in a way that he will approve, there is nothing wrong with mermaiding.

[MerShellly]

I apologize for my insanely late reply lol. :shame:I loved y'alls input! Since all humans are made as creative beings, mermaiding to me is definitely a high level of creativity with many positives! I'm also happy in knowing that others feel the same way too.

[Luna Dreamtide]

I apologize for my insanely late reply lol. :shame:I loved y'alls input! Since all humans are made as creative beings, mermaiding to me is definitely a high level of creativity with many positives! I'm also happy in knowing that others feel the same way too.
Exactly! For awhile I had struggled with if my very wild imagination was against what a Christian should be with my love of fantasy and fiction. I think mermaiding helped me realise that it was ok :)

[AelianaNympha]

Exactly! For awhile I had struggled with if my very wild imagination was against what a Christian should be with my love of fantasy and fiction. I think mermaiding helped me realise that it was ok :)
Hello there all! I am a newbie - don't even have a tail yet, but I'm so happy to have found a Christian thread!! I feel the same as you Leina - I have always had a very wild imagination, and wondered if putting so much thought into the fantastic was sinful. But a good friend of mine who is also a pastor told me that God has given me these passions to demonstrate his own creativity through the people he has created. We are made in His image. Our creativity stems from Him. So as long as there's no hubris involved, our creativity is just another way to show God's nature in the world. It made me feel so much better!
I teach at a Christian school so I worried if someone found out what I want to spend my summers doing they would think it was sinful. But I asked him about it And he thinks my mermaiding adventure is a wonderful and worthy endeavor. :)

[Luna Dreamtide]

Hello there all! I am a newbie - don't even have a tail yet, but I'm so happy to have found a Christian thread!! I feel the same as you Leina - I have always had a very wild imagination, and wondered if putting so much thought into the fantastic was sinful. But a good friend of mine who is also a pastor told me that God has given me these passions to demonstrate his own creativity through the people he has created. We are made in His image. Our creativity stems from Him. So as long as there's no hubris involved, our creativity is just another way to show God's nature in the world. It made me feel so much better!
I teach at a Christian school so I worried if someone found out what I want to spend my summers doing they would think it was sinful. But I asked him about it And he thinks my mermaiding adventure is a wonderful and worthy endeavor. :)
That great. Thanks for sharing. Its cool to hear someone else feeling similarly. :)

[MerShellly]

Hello there all! I am a newbie - don't even have a tail yet, but I'm so happy to have found a Christian thread!! I feel the same as you Leina - I have always had a very wild imagination, and wondered if putting so much thought into the fantastic was sinful. But a good friend of mine who is also a pastor told me that God has given me these passions to demonstrate his own creativity through the people he has created. We are made in His image. Our creativity stems from Him. So as long as there's no hubris involved, our creativity is just another way to show God's nature in the world. It made me feel so much better!
I teach at a Christian school so I worried if someone found out what I want to spend my summers doing they would think it was sinful. But I asked him about it And he thinks my mermaiding adventure is a wonderful and worthy endeavor. :) I love this! Thank you for posting! 1 Corinthians 10:31 says that we should do all things for the glory of God, and when I started growing in my relationship with the Lord it hit me like a shot that that is how I should be viewing mermaiding too.


Also, off topic from this, I found this site from a friend. http://www.numberofabortions.com/ Just like he said, it's like a holocaust. I just wish/hope these stats are just an exaggeration? :( Very sobering.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I love this! Thank you for posting! 1 Corinthians 10:31 says that we should do all things for the glory of God, and when I started growing in my relationship with the Lord it hit me like a shot that that is how I should be viewing mermaiding too.


Also, off topic from this, I found this site from a friend. http://www.numberofabortions.com/ Just like he said, it's like a holocaust. I just wish/hope these stats are just an exaggeration? :( Very sobering.

That verse definitely applies! I love it! Thank you for sharing, Carly! :)

And gosh, I hope it hasn't been that many but I wouldn't be terribly surprised. Maybe I'm jaded, but either way, even one is too many unless of course the life of the mother is threatened by the pregnancy. (The only time I feel it's understandable because it's a lose-lose situation, and only with the consent of the mother and the father if he's available, of course). Definitely like a holocaust. So many wasted lives. :(

[Mermaid Alea]

Hello Mers,
Please pray for my Mom. I am up late and my Mom woke up, walked into the room and asked me to sit and pray for her because she is worried that she might have ovarian cancer. She has been to the doctor recently and didn't seem worried about her health, but tonight she was definitely very upset. After years my Mom is finally getting her dream home on the bay and we have started moving things over to the new house. This really has been a big dream of hers so I really hope that my Mom is okay and will be able to live many years in her dream home that she has worked hard for all these years. She really scared me tonight. :sad eyes:

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Hello Mers,
Please pray for my Mom. I am up late and my Mom woke up, walked into the room and asked me to sit and pray for her because she is worried that she might have ovarian cancer. She has been to the doctor recently and didn't seem worried about her health, but tonight she was definitely very upset. After years my Mom is finally getting her dream home on the bay and we have started moving things over to the new house. This really has been a big dream of hers so I really hope that my Mom is okay and will be able to live many years in her dream home that she has worked hard for all these years. She really scared me tonight. :sad eyes:

Then, I'm not only praying for her but for YOU as well! I'm standing with you both in Jesus' name to declare full and complete healing over your mother and an overwhelming holy peace to overwhelm both of your hearts. No ovarian cancer or cysts in Jesus' name! She will live out the remainder of her years healthy and happy with her sweet family. :)
Please, keep us updated and message me if you need to talk. <3

[AelianaNympha]

Hello Mers,
Please pray for my Mom. I am up late and my Mom woke up, walked into the room and asked me to sit and pray for her because she is worried that she might have ovarian cancer. She has been to the doctor recently and didn't seem worried about her health, but tonight she was definitely very upset. After years my Mom is finally getting her dream home on the bay and we have started moving things over to the new house. This really has been a big dream of hers so I really hope that my Mom is okay and will be able to live many years in her dream home that she has worked hard for all these years. She really scared me tonight. :sad eyes:

I will definitely keep her in my prayers! Keep us all in the know!

[MerShellly]

Hello Mers,
Please pray for my Mom. I am up late and my Mom woke up, walked into the room and asked me to sit and pray for her because she is worried that she might have ovarian cancer. She has been to the doctor recently and didn't seem worried about her health, but tonight she was definitely very upset. After years my Mom is finally getting her dream home on the bay and we have started moving things over to the new house. This really has been a big dream of hers so I really hope that my Mom is okay and will be able to live many years in her dream home that she has worked hard for all these years. She really scared me tonight. :sad eyes:

Yes definitely keep us all updated! I'll be praying for the both of you.

[Mermaid Alea]

Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers!

My Mom hasn't really mentioned it again, but I do know she is worried. Right now I think her mind is mainly on moving into the new house.

[MerShellly]

That's good (about your mom focusing on her house, something positive)! :) :hug:

[Amphitrite]

Hi. *awkward wave*

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Hey!!! How is everyone? :)

[Amphitrite]

Eh, looking for a new church

[Mermaid Alea]

I missed you Lotus! :hug: I know I don't really know you well, but I always enjoy your comments on everything.

I am excited because I will be a church camp counselor again this year ( next month I think ) and this year's camp theme is pirates! I am definitely going to bring my tail and I have been so excited I have already been working on my pirate talk and I got an awesome tricorn hat too! I do miss being young enough to be a camper, but since I have gotten older and started counseling I find that there is a whole new kind of joy in doing that.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Amphitrite: I hope it's just because you want to, and that you didn't have a bad experience! Praying that the Lord gives you guidance and makes it apparent to you where He wants you. :)

Mermaid Alea: *hugs*! You're the sweetest! I've missed you, too. I feel the same about your posts! :)
That's wonderful!! I hope you take lots of pictures! Praying for a fruitful camp trip of sowing sweet seeds into young hearts! May the Holy Spirit bless you fully! How long is the camp?? <3

[Mermaid Hunter]

I wasn't looking for this, but I'm really glad I found it. I'm church-hunting too; my parents' church has a great pastor, but it's too distant to build a community, and the one I'm attending now has a great community, but some of the teaching is frustrating.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

@Hunter: I'm in kind of the same boat! The community is also full of sweet, devoted believers at my more distant church, but it is a challenge getting over there. Dallas traffic is awful. Still trying hard to plug in! It would be tough sitting through sermons that frustrate you!

[Amphitrite]

I did have a bad experience. No one EVER talked to me. No one cared. I was never invited over or out and the numerous people I invited over were always too busy for me.

[Mermaid Hunter]

@Amphitrite That sounds familiar. Usually for me that happens when you come into a church where everyone else grew up together and all know each other already. It's hard to push into those kinds of groups.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

That's awful! I'm honestly surprised by how many people don't have that extroverted skill of getting to know new people. Even at my church, full of well meaning and welcoming Christians who are very loving, they seem to freeze up after the greetings are done. They can't think of anything new to say even when there are countless events going on that they could invite someone to. But it's honestly something that we can change! Those of us who have experienced the lack of a warm welcome at churches have a lot to offer as greeters. Even if it's not our official position. :)

[Amphitrite]

Yeah. Downer for me as I am far away from family. I'm just really disappointed. I'm hurting and have a limited number of people to talk to, none of whom are in real life. No one calls, no one asks if I am okay or do I need anything. It breaks my heart.

[Mermaid Alea]

Church camp starts a week from now and it lasts a week. We had our camp counselor meeting today after church and I am even more pumped about going. Around 50% of the campers will be first time campers so it will be exciting to see some new faces. The theme is pirates all the campers will be divided into 4 crews. Each crew gets their own treasure chest and after winning an event they will get around 10 fake doubloons to put in their treasure chest. At the end of camp all the treasure will be counted up and the crew with the most treasure will win. The best part is, as counselors we will each be given a bag of doubloons and when we see a camper do something Christ-like, we are to discretely hand them a doubloon and tell them why we are giving it to them. Then they can put that into their crew's treasure chest for more points! I love the idea so much!

[MerShellly]

Yeah. Downer for me as I am far away from family. I'm just really disappointed. I'm hurting and have a limited number of people to talk to, none of whom are in real life. No one calls, no one asks if I am okay or do I need anything. It breaks my heart.
:( :hug:*hugs* Didn't see your message until now. I am so sorry to hear about that! You deserve a loving church family! I don't attend a church, just watch a pastor's daily podcast and am part of an online Christian group. A lot of Christians I know believe that is not "good enough" (Ugh.), but it's the best I can do right now myself and I'm content with my situation.

[MerShellly]

The best part is, as counselors we will each be given a bag of doubloons and when we see a camper do something Christ-like, we are to discretely hand them a doubloon and tell them why we are giving it to them. Then they can put that into their crew's treasure chest for more points! I love the idea so much! That sounds awesome! The camp I volunteer for really needs to have a theme, esp. one like that!

[Cerry]

I love this thread so much. There is so much inspiration here. I'm a bit envious of the pirate theme camp to be honest, it sounds like a blast. I can't wait to get my new tail (sometime next month) and be able to bring joy to people in that capacity. I'm having issues though trying to make a top that is a bit more modest. What are your favorite styles for tips?

[MerShellly]

I love this thread so much. There is so much inspiration here. I'm a bit envious of the pirate theme camp to be honest, it sounds like a blast. I can't wait to get my new tail (sometime next month) and be able to bring joy to people in that capacity. I'm having issues though trying to make a top that is a bit more modest. What are your favorite styles for tips? Thx Cerry! And I think Mermaid Lotus sells modest tops on her etsy store?

[Cerry]

❤ I love her tops!

[Amphitrite]

Every day, my situation proves in countless ways that I. am. not. enough. But my God is.

[Mermaid Alea]

I have a song to go with what you said: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McKJgrVEcKM

I have been struggling lately with feeling positive amidst all the stress of life with graduation coming up and stuff. I have to keep reminding myself that God has taken good care of me all this time and I need to put more trust in him and stop worrying so much. I am taking in all the little things in life right now to remind myself how awesome this world is. Just tonight I was watching Leidy's comb jellyfish glow in the dark and fish jumping around everywhere - yesterday I watched dolphins swim by and then when they were off in the distance they started jumping out of the glassy water. God is my favorite artist.

[Mermaid Alea]

This weekend is Gulf Coast Getaway (Christian event) in Panama City Beach, FL.
If you happen to be going bring your tail and we can meetup and swim during one of the break times!

[Misty Lau]

I wish I could come! So happy to know there are other Christian mers here!

[Mermaid_Izzy]

Hello everyone...I thought that Christianity was unheard of in the mer world...so glad to find this thread!


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[Mermaid Sirenia]

I was just given a daily devotional book all based on The Hobbit. My two favorite things out into one, Christianity and the wonderful works of Tolkien❤

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[MerGreg]

I was just given a daily devotional book all based on The Hobbit. My two favorite things out into one, Christianity and the wonderful works of Tolkien❤

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Very nice! Couldn't agree more. I have a devotional that's based on Narnia - so much good stuff, insight. Love it.

Glad to find this thread!!!

[MerGreg]

:( :hug:*hugs* Didn't see your message until now. I am so sorry to hear about that! You deserve a loving church family! I don't attend a church, just watch a pastor's daily podcast and am part of an online Christian group. A lot of Christians I know believe that is not "good enough" (Ugh.), but it's the best I can do right now myself and I'm content with my situation.

The best you can do is the best you can do. I don't know your situation, but I've known of several, for varied reasons, that work out this way, at least for a season. Blessings to you, Carly!

[MerGreg]

Yeah. Downer for me as I am far away from family. I'm just really disappointed. I'm hurting and have a limited number of people to talk to, none of whom are in real life. No one calls, no one asks if I am okay or do I need anything. It breaks my heart.

Hi! I know you don't know me, but I've been in the same situation too many times. It's so easy for me to say "hang in there" or "I'll pray for you" - I don't want to give you a canned reply - but I really will be praying for you, Amphitrite. Blessings to you!!!

[Mermaid Alea]

I was just given a daily devotional book all based on The Hobbit. My two favorite things out into one, Christianity and the wonderful works of Tolkien❤

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Wait...There are such things!? Oh my gosh that is amazing!

Also welcome everyone new to the thread! :D

[Slim]

Wait...There are such things!? Oh my gosh that is amazing!

Also welcome everyone new to the thread! :D

One of my nieces out of state was talking about that book while they were here in central Fl. If I remember the name, it's "Hobbit Devotional" by Ed Strauss. I'm sure the local library might have it or order from another library in the area.

[MerGreg]

Wait...There are such things!? Oh my gosh that is amazing!

Also welcome everyone new to the thread! :D

Thanks! Love what you're doing with the camp!

[Takahao]

Any other Mormons here lol? I'll definitely have to give that Hobbit Devotional book a try, it sounds interesting! I know it's a bit orthodox, being from the Book of Mormon and not the Bible, but I have to share my favorite scripture (https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/1.21?lang=eng). It definitely has some gems of interest, even if you don't believe in it.

It says "Arise from the dust, my sons, and be men, and be determined in one mind and in one heart, united in all things, that ye may not come down in captivity". This scripture is a major driving force in my life, and it's helped me through many tough times. There are times when I feel that I'm becoming distant from our Heavenly Father, and that I'm loosening my habits and morals, and becoming unworthy to wield the Aaronic priesthood.

This is reminds me of what I need to do. It gives me the strength to carry my burdens, be they physical, spiritual, or moral, and to withstand whatever trials I may face. That in order to be truly free, I must first perform my duties to God and serve others. I have the responsibility of blessing the bread and water in sacrament meeting, and unless I can do those things, I have no power to assume the responsibilities of the priesthood and serve others.

I remember becoming more than familiar with water this summer during a grueling High Adventure trip, a trip where me and my quorum hiked and camped for a week, isolated from civilization and distraction. I spent probably a good 9-10 hours wading, hiking, and swimming through a river. It was one of the most difficult things I've done in my life. We had occasional breaks for lessons, talks, and to bear our testimonies.

I remember I prayed 3 times, each having to stop as I was hiking out, as a lightning storm began to hit. I was broken, tired, and barely able to move. But that scripture, and my love for God and Jesus Christ, it gave me the strength to pull through. It almost felt as if there was someone along the way, helping me, helping me carry the weight of my pack.

That's a big reason why I identify as Mormon and a Christian. Nature always draws in the spirit for me, and I feel that humbling yourself like I have only strengthens its presence. I remember reading of a similar thing in Siddhartha Herman Hesse, one of my favorite books, as it describes Siddhartha's journey for spiritual enlightenment, as he casts off all things hat are of the world, devoting himself entirely to his faith.

Just thought I should share an experience and a bit of my testimony, to make this a bit more of a substantial post. What would you guys consider a polarizing experience for your faith in God?

[Jessbug]

I love this idea!

[Agent Dragon]

Any other Mormons here lol? I'll definitely have to give that Hobbit Devotional book a try, it sounds interesting! I know it's a bit orthodox, being from the Book of Mormon and not the Bible, but I have to share my favorite scripture (https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/1.21?lang=eng). It definitely has some gems of interest, even if you don't believe in it.

It says "Arise from the dust, my sons, and be men, and be determined in one mind and in one heart, united in all things, that ye may not come down in captivity". This scripture is a major driving force in my life, and it's helped me through many tough times. There are times when I feel that I'm becoming distant from our Heavenly Father, and that I'm loosening my habits and morals, and becoming unworthy to wield the Aaronic priesthood.

This is reminds me of what I need to do. It gives me the strength to carry my burdens, be they physical, spiritual, or moral, and to withstand whatever trials I may face. That in order to be truly free, I must first perform my duties to God and serve others. I have the responsibility of blessing the bread and water in sacrament meeting, and unless I can do those things, I have no power to assume the responsibilities of the priesthood and serve others.

I remember becoming more than familiar with water this summer during a grueling High Adventure trip, a trip where me and my quorum hiked and camped for a week, isolated from civilization and distraction. I spent probably a good 9-10 hours wading, hiking, and swimming through a river. It was one of the most difficult things I've done in my life. We had occasional breaks for lessons, talks, and to bear our testimonies.

I remember I prayed 3 times, each having to stop as I was hiking out, as a lightning storm began to hit. I was broken, tired, and barely able to move. But that scripture, and my love for God and Jesus Christ, it gave me the strength to pull through. It almost felt as if there was someone along the way, helping me, helping me carry the weight of my pack.

That's a big reason why I identify as Mormon and a Christian. Nature always draws in the spirit for me, and I feel that humbling yourself like I have only strengthens its presence. I remember reading of a similar thing in Siddhartha Herman Hesse, one of my favorite books, as it describes Siddhartha's journey for spiritual enlightenment, as he casts off all things hat are of the world, devoting himself entirely to his faith.

Just thought I should share an experience and a bit of my testimony, to make this a bit more of a substantial post. What would you guys consider a polarizing experience for your faith in God?

I'm Mormon, too! I was starting to think I was the only one!
I don't really have a big story to tell about one experience that changed my relationship with God. For me, it's been slow and gradual. As a person who suffers from depression, I've been in situations where even the most loving words can't reach me. But God's love is always there, even when I don't feel it. Knowing that gives me the strength to keep going.


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[chelzzz10]

I'm Mormon, too! I was starting to think I was the only one!
I don't really have a big story to tell about one experience that changed my relationship with God. For me, it's been slow and gradual. As a person who suffers from depression, I've been in situations where even the most loving words can't reach me. But God's love is always there, even when I don't feel it. Knowing that gives me the strength to keep going.


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Holla at my fellow Mormon Merfolk! I was beginning to think I was the only one too! I think one thing that has really made me think a lot about my faith is due to the fact that my mom has been sick for the past month or two. For about a week it looked like there was a good chance that she had Pancreatic Cancer. In case you are unaware, pancreatic cancer is THE most deadly type of cancer, even ahead of lung cancer. This completely shook my world. Part of me was thinking about how dying at 56 years old is too young and I could never live without my mom and that I would be in the deepest depression if she left. The other part was what I think was the Spirit telling me that if she did leave, then I would still be able to see her again after this life and I shouldn't be so worried about the relatively short amount of time that I would be away from her (what's 50 years in comparison to eternity?). Since then we've found that it's likely just gallstones and she'll be getting surgery for it in a couple days. But I'm still strangely grateful for the chance I got to reevaluate my faith and what I would do if something really did happen to her. Would I have no faith and fall into despair? Or would I mourn for a while and then use the experience to build my faith and the faith of other people? Through that experience I realized this life is better when you have the faith that everything that is unfair about this life will be made right through the atonement of Christ.

[Rebela Hunter]

It's nice to see a Christian merfolk thread! I had trouble finding it as there's not a specific category for "Religion". Hmm...

I thought Christian mermaids would be so totally out there that it wouldn't exist! A lot of the churches I've attended hate anything that is considered fantasy, such as dragons, mermaids, etc., and thus I was either promptly thrown out or left before they had the chance.

I was wondering - if any of you are professional mermaids/mermen that live for the one true God the Father, of any sub-religion or denomination, how do you incorporate God in what you do? As He told us in the Bible, in Colossians 3:23 (KJV):“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;”

I want to make mermaiding a thing that glorifies Him but also brings joy and happiness to everyone! Any ideas?

[Mermaid_Izzy]

It's nice to see a Christian merfolk thread! I had trouble finding it as there's not a specific category for "Religion". Hmm...

I thought Christian mermaids would be so totally out there that it wouldn't exist! A lot of the churches I've attended hate anything that is considered fantasy, such as dragons, mermaids, etc., and thus I was either promptly thrown out or left before they had the chance.

I was wondering - if any of you are professional mermaids/mermen that live for the one true God the Father, of any sub-religion or denomination, how do you incorporate God in what you do? As He told us in the Bible, in Colossians 3:23 (KJV):“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;”

I want to make mermaiding a thing that glorifies Him but also brings joy and happiness to everyone! Any ideas?

I have been trying to think about how to do the same thing.


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[Mermaid Lanier]

I would view it like Mr. Rogers. Although he never talked about church or God in his show, several people went to church because of him. He SHOWED God's love through his love of each individual child. (You'll notice that he never said "Hey, kids!" He addressed the biewer individually.)

Even though my latest Evangelism teacher might go brimstone-and-hellfire on me for it, I think you can glorify and lead people to God much more subtley and even more honestly through your actions.

[Mermaid_Izzy]

I would view it like Mr. Rogers. Although he never talked about church or God in his show, several people went to church because of him. He SHOWED God's love through his love of each individual child. (You'll notice that he never said "Hey, kids!" He addressed the biewer individually.)

Even though my latest Evangelism teacher might go brimstone-and-hellfire on me for it, I think you can glorify and lead people to God much more subtley and even more honestly through your actions.

That how I was kind of thinking. Thank you for sharing it. It really helped me!


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[Rebela Hunter]

I would view it like Mr. Rogers. Although he never talked about church or God in his show, several people went to church because of him. He SHOWED God's love through his love of each individual child. (You'll notice that he never said "Hey, kids!" He addressed the biewer individually.)


Even though my latest Evangelism teacher might go brimstone-and-hellfire on me for it, I think you can glorify and lead people to God much more subtley and even more honestly through your actions.

That's actually a fantastic way to view it! It makes a lot more sense now :)
Thank you !

[MerGreg]

Even though my latest Evangelism teacher might go brimstone-and-hellfire on me for it, I think you can glorify and lead people to God much more subtley and even more honestly through your actions.

Because the first step is always to Win The Right To Be Heard. Once that is accomplished, THEN share the Good News.

[MerGreg]

It's nice to see a Christian merfolk thread! I had trouble finding it as there's not a specific category for "Religion". Hmm...

I thought Christian mermaids would be so totally out there that it wouldn't exist! A lot of the churches I've attended hate anything that is considered fantasy, such as dragons, mermaids, etc., and thus I was either promptly thrown out or left before they had the chance.

I was wondering - if any of you are professional mermaids/mermen that live for the one true God the Father, of any sub-religion or denomination, how do you incorporate God in what you do? As He told us in the Bible, in Colossians 3:23 (KJV):“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;”

I want to make mermaiding a thing that glorifies Him but also brings joy and happiness to everyone! Any ideas?

Wish you could come up to the DC area and check out my church. Faithful to the Word, and realizing that people are coming from everywhere.

As things stand right now, I'm hoping to host a Sunday morning informal worship / get-together at the next MerMania for whomever might want to attend. After all, we're called to be fishers of men, and who's more likely to get caught in a net than merfolk? ;)

The key is (1.) building relationships and (2.) being REAL - with others and with yourself. Don't be a phony, and don't view people as projects. And lastly, let's not forget that the undersea world is a HUGE part of His creation. Honor the Creator by caring for that part of His creation.

[Mermaid Lanier]

Greg, your fisher of men comment reminded me of a story that I thought you guys might like. My dad is a chaplain, and he was sent to Africa a some time ago. While he was there, he met a Muslim man who didn't know what a pastor was. My dad explained that he was "a fisher of men" and the man understood. Just a few years ago, the man sent a message to my dad saying, "You caught this fish on your first trip." He's now a Christian ministering to others in his area. It's a pretty inspiring story. :)

[MerGreg]

Greg, your fisher of men comment reminded me of a story that I thought you guys might like. My dad is a chaplain, and he was sent to Africa a some time ago. While he was there, he met a Muslim man who didn't know what a pastor was. My dad explained that he was "a fisher of men" and the man understood. Just a few years ago, the man sent a message to my dad saying, "You caught this fish on your first trip." He's now a Christian ministering to others in his area. It's a pretty inspiring story. :)

MUCH Groovy!!! AWESOME!!!

[Rebela Hunter]

Wish you could come up to the DC area and check out my church. Faithful to the Word, and realizing that people are coming from everywhere.


As things stand right now, I'm hoping to host a Sunday morning informal worship / get-together at the next MerMania for whomever might want to attend. After all, we're called to be fishers of men, and who's more likely to get caught in a net than merfolk?


The key is (1.) building relationships and (2.) being REAL - with others and with yourself. Don't be a phony, and don't view people as projects. And lastly, let's not forget that the undersea world is a HUGE part of His creation. Honor the Creator by caring for that part of His creation.

I'd love to join in on that MerMainia informal worship! I would love to make more Christian mer friends as well. It sounds like fun!

I agree! I am always real with myself and others as I dislike being seen for something I am not. I don't worry about other people's perception of me and it really has set me as free as a dolphin!
Thank you !

[Misty Lau]

Oh wow, that's an awesome idea. I'd love to worship at Mermania when I go... which won't be for at least five years, but I'm so happy that He's going to be worshipped there!

[Aurelian]

Hey. If we started a pod for Christians, we could call it "The Sunday School." :p
That. Sounds. Awesome. :)
Someone please do this.

[Galilee]

I know I'm a little late to the party, but I was super excited to find a Christian thread! One of my favourite verses is Pslam 46:10: "He says, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."" (NIV) I also find a lot of comfort in Philippians 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (NIV) I struggle with a lot of anxiety, so these verses are always really nice to remind me that God always has my back. :)

[Mermaid_Izzy]

I know I'm a little late to the party, but I was super excited to find a Christian thread! One of my favourite verses is Pslam 46:10: "He says, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."" (NIV) I also find a lot of comfort in Philippians 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (NIV) I struggle with a lot of anxiety, so these verses are always really nice to remind me that God always has my back. :)

Thanks for sharing. I also like these verses!


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[MerGreg]

I know I'm a little late to the party, but I was super excited to find a Christian thread! One of my favourite verses is Pslam 46:10: "He says, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.""

Hey, Domina! Great to have you here!

Here's a crazy little idea for you about this passage. Hope you like it.

"I will be exalted among the nations" - what exactly qualifies as a Nation? The traditional meaning doesn't so much refer to borders and boundaries, but rather People groups.

Sooo.... could Merfolk count as a "Nation?" If so, He will no doubt be exalted here! :cool:

[Galilee]

Thanks! It's wonderful to be here. :) I think that's an excellent interpretation of that verse! He certainly will be exalted here indeed!

[Rebela Hunter]

If everyone here has Facebook, Skype, Discord, etc. we could start up a small chatroom called "The Sunday School" for the small Christian Pod we have going on here! <3

I'll totally set it up if enough people are interested :)

[MerGreg]

If everyone here has Facebook, Skype, Discord, etc. we could start up a small chatroom called "The Sunday School" for the small Christian Pod we have going on here! <3

I'll totally set it up if enough people are interested :)

I have FB and Skype.

[Galilee]

I have Skype, but wouldn't mind setting up a Discord if it is preferred.

[SteampunkMermaid01]

I can join whatever group we wanted to start up (I'm sorry I'm super late to the party- I was gone for a while- but I'm back now and hope to be active in the mer community again?)

[Mermaid_Izzy]

I am with steampunkmermaid01 I am game with anything! : )


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[Rebela Hunter]

Awesome! :)
I'll set something up and let all of you guys know when it's finalized <3

[Takahao]

Sweet! I'd love to join a discord chat for all of this.

[Mermaid_Izzy]

I am asking all those out there to please pray for my bother.

He is 10 and was playing at the pool on a cloudy day (Friday) where he refused to use sun screen.

He is now badly burned with blisters all over his shoulders, upper arms, and all over his upper back. He can barely wear a shirt and can't lay down to sleep.

We are on our way in vacation. We stopped in Georgia for the night and I am awake with him. My mom is at home with everyone praying, I am praying, and even if the answer or a miracle doesn't happen, I need peace and know that my brother can get some sleep.

It hurts that I can't give him relief. I don't understand why this is happening, but I know there is a reason.

Thanks to all those praying.




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[Slim]

I'm sorry. I hope he was able to get some sleep and he heals from those burns.

[Mermaid_Izzy]

I'm sorry. I hope he was able to get some sleep and he heals from those burns.

He fell asleep standing up in a door frame and then fell in the floor where he was able to sleep for about 2 hours. Now the challenge is getting him in the car and 5hrs down the road.


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[Slim]

He fell asleep standing up in a door frame and then fell in the floor where he was able to sleep for about 2 hours. Now the challenge is getting him in the car and 5hrs down the road.


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The Walmart here in Florida sells a purple looking Aloe spray. Not the usual green. That one works extremely well on me for a good hour or 2 without pain when I had 2nd degree sunburn years ago. I'm not sure how will it would work on him though.

[Mermaid_Izzy]

The Walmart here in Florida sells a purple looking Aloe spray. Not the usual green. That one works extremely well on me for a good hour or 2 without pain when I had 2nd degree sunburn years ago. I'm not sure how will it would work on him though.

Thanks Slim! We should be stopping at a Walmart to get food for the week. He has some burn cream from the doctor, but I will see if he's willing to try.


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[Takahao]

Ouch. I hope he gets better soon! I can recall recieving a similar sunburn at a similar age, even in similar circumstances, oddly enough. Get an aloe vera plant or two. You can cut a leave off, and squeeze it straight from the plant. If it's a bit stubborn, you can even use a cheese grater to get the gel off, and liquify it a bit more. Put that on some damp, cool, rags, and that should hopefully help. Don't try to scrub or rub it in though, that'll irritate the burns. Just gently lay it on. That's what my mom did whenever I got sunburnt, and it works really well.

It'll work a lot lot better than processed aloe vera gel from a bottle. It might sting slightly at first, but it's really soothing.

[Mermaid_Izzy]

Ouch. I hope he gets better soon! I can recall recieving a similar sunburn at a similar age, even in similar circumstances, oddly enough. Get an aloe vera plant or two. You can cut a leave off, and squeeze it straight from the plant. If it's a bit stubborn, you can even use a cheese grater to get the gel off, and liquify it a bit more. Put that on some damp, cool, rags, and that should hopefully help. Don't try to scrub or rub it in though, that'll irritate the burns. Just gently lay it on. That's what my mom did whenever I got sunburnt, and it works really well.

It'll work a lot lot better than processed aloe vera gel from a bottle. It might sting slightly at first, but it's really soothing.

Thanks for the advice!

I have a praise report that all his blisters are gone and brought tremendous relief! It happened almost over night!

Now he just has to get over some itching, but he still won't let us touch his back. He barely got in the shower last night (he hadn't bathed in 6 days) because he was terrified it was going to hurt; however, once he did he was perfectly fine.


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[Agent Dragon]

Thanks for the advice!

I have a praise report that all his blisters are gone and brought tremendous relief! It happened almost over night!

Now he just has to get over some itching, but he still won't let us touch his back. He barely got in the shower last night (he hadn't bathed in 6 days) because he was terrified it was going to hurt; however, once he did he was perfectly fine.


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Thank goodness! I've never had a second-degree sunburn; I can't imagine how bad it must be.


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[Galilee]

I'm glad to hear that he's getting better! I'll pray that the itching as well as any discomfort he's feeling will get better soon.

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[Mermaid_Izzy]

Thanks guys! He's handled it extremely well for his age. And he keeps getting better. He was able to get in the ocean today up to just below his stomach. I am very that he is able to enjoy the last few days in Florida.


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[Slim]

Awesome. Glad he recovered in time.


Thanks guys! He's handled it extremely well for his age. And he keeps getting better. He was able to get in the ocean today up to just below his stomach. I am very that he is able to enjoy the last few days in Florida.


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[Rebela Hunter]

Praise the Lord! I'm glad your brother recieved God's healing blessing, Mermaid Izzy <3
Let him know that all of us merfolk are praying for him and love him dearly!

Hopefully he'll use sunscreen next time :P

[Mermaid_Izzy]

Praise the Lord! I'm glad your brother recieved God's healing blessing, Mermaid Izzy <3
Let him know that all of us merfolk are praying for him and love him dearly!

Hopefully he'll use sunscreen next time :P

I don't think he'll ever go back in the pool without sunscreen. He wouldn't even go outside to the car, so we could go eat, until my dad put sunscreen on him.

And I will let him know!


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[MerGreg]

Glad he's doing so much better!!!

[Mermaid_Izzy]

Glad he's doing so much better!!!

He said thank you!


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[Mermaid Bree]

FYI - the dreaded sunburn 'hell-itch'. I get it myself, and it can be FIERCE. My science-geek alternate personality did some digging around a while back - what causes it: the itch is from histamine release from the irritated/damaged skin layer. The itch happens because the damaged skin layer separates from the deeper skin tissue, and with that histamine release, is like being bit by a whole flock of killer mosquitos. What has worked for me is liberal use of hydrocortisone 1% creme, and if you can find it, topical lidocaine cream. (It can be found 'over the counter') Also, good old Benadryl. For the sunburn STING, I've heard that vinegar periodically dabbed on helps, as well as good old asprin. The good part is that it DOES eventually go away, usually within 12 hours or so.

[Rebela Hunter]

How is everyone doing? C:
The thread fell silent ! :P

[Agent Dragon]

I'm doing great! I figured here would be the right place to mention that my older sister's getting home from her mission tomorrow! It'll be my firsts time seeing her since she left 18 months ago.


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[Mermaid Joie]

Hey Mer-disciples :) I have been a member of Mernetwork for a while now and I just found this thread. I am a nondenominational Christian and have been since I was 4. It's great to know there are other Mer that share my beliefs.

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[Mermaid_Izzy]

I am good! I just wish the drama would sort itself out, but I know as the network grows bigger that is a harder task.


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[Rebela Hunter]

So, I need advice from my mer brothers and sisters in Christ!
I'm stuck in a dilemma.

I very boldly tell the truths of what God says in the Bible, daily. Especially on Facebook. Usually it's very obvious things that I tell people about, but I believe that is my calling - to bring others to knowing Christ and His love! I want to make as many people aware of His presence and how they can live on the righteous path.
So, the other day I was referencing something that someone was celebrating and preached about how it was a sin, definitely against God and His Word. The other person was less than civil and attacked me multiple times for my belief. However, that's not the issue, as I can handle that.

This person picked at my faith, saying that a Christian cannot dress up as or work as a mermaid. They referenced Romans 14:23 [it says 'for whatsoever is not of faith is sin'] and said that, since mermaids are not real and not made by God, it was a sin to be a mermaid, dress up as a mermaid, and the like.
This really got me thinking, and thinking hard. I prayed for days and studied the Bible for any hint of mermaids.
And sure enough, I found something that definitely pertains to mermaids in the Bible itself!

In the book of Judges and Samuel, it mentions a fake deity that was made up by the Philistines. His name was Dagon, who had the body of a fish with the head and hands of a man. [A merman!]
In 1 Samuel 5:2, the Philistines had apparently won a battle with Israel and had taken the Ark of the Covenant as a spoil of war. As I'm sure many of you know, the Ark was where God himself resided, among his people. They took the Ark into the "house of Dagon", which I assume is a temple or church, and set it before the statue of their merman idol.
In the very next verse, 1 Samuel 5:3, it says that "And when they of Ashdod arose early on the morrow, behold, Dagon was fallen upon his face to the earth before the ark of the LORD. And they took Dagon, and set him in his place again." God had TORN DOWN THEIR IDOL and was angry at them for taking the Ark to a sinful place.
In 1 Samuel 5:4, it continues with "And when they arose early on the morrow morning, behold, Dagon was fallen upon his face to the ground before the ark of the LORD; and the head of Dagon and both the palms of his hands were cut off upon the threshold; only the stump of Dagon was left to him."
In the next verses, it said they never reentered the temple after giving the Ark back.
Not only that, but 1 Samuel 5:9 said "And it was so, that, after they had carried it about, the hand of the LORD was against the city with a very great destruction: and he smote the men of the city, both small and great, and they had emerods in their secret parts."
God started to punish them for what they had done. Both worshiping a merman and stealing the Ark. It was so bad they returned it themselves to stop God's wrath! They didn't go back into that temple after that day, after retrieving the Ark. Scary, right?

So, by dressing up as mermaids, could we be encouraging idolization of ourselves or encouraging the "magic" that mermaids are "real", which would by lying, which is a sin? Is the example of Dagon being torn down and the people killed a sign that males should not put on mertails? Could it be a sin to dress up as a mermaid, even though we promote Christian values?
Are we leading children astray and teaching them that magic is real, or giving them the thought and letting them think wrong thoughts without telling them the truth?
Matthew 18:6 - "But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and [that] he were drowned in the depth of the sea."



I'm honestly curious as to your thoughts, brothers and sisters!
I want to stay right on my path and be able to uphold my own beliefs while being able to explain to others how I can be a "mermaid" and a Christian!

[Mermaid Joie]

You have some very good points and I have wondered about this too. I think Romans 12 talks about this but I will ask my bible study leader specifically about this.

So, I need advice from my mer brothers and sisters in Christ!
I'm stuck in a dilemma.

I very boldly tell the truths of what God says in the Bible, daily. Especially on Facebook. Usually it's very obvious things that I tell people about, but I believe that is my calling - to bring others to knowing Christ and His love! I want to make as many people aware of His presence and how they can live on the righteous path.
So, the other day I was referencing something that someone was celebrating and preached about how it was a sin, definitely against God and His Word. The other person was less than civil and attacked me multiple times for my belief. However, that's not the issue, as I can handle that.

This person picked at my faith, saying that a Christian cannot dress up as or work as a mermaid. They referenced Romans 14:23 [it says 'for whatsoever is not of faith is sin'] and said that, since mermaids are not real and not made by God, it was a sin to be a mermaid, dress up as a mermaid, and the like.
This really got me thinking, and thinking hard. I prayed for days and studied the Bible for any hint of mermaids.
And sure enough, I found something that definitely pertains to mermaids in the Bible itself!

In the book of Judges and Samuel, it mentions a fake deity that was made up by the Philistines. His name was Dagon, who had the body of a fish with the head and hands of a man. [A merman!]
In 1 Samuel 5:2, the Philistines had apparently won a battle with Israel and had taken the Ark of the Covenant as a spoil of war. As I'm sure many of you know, the Ark was where God himself resided, among his people. They took the Ark into the "house of Dagon", which I assume is a temple or church, and set it before the statue of their merman idol.
In the very next verse, 1 Samuel 5:3, it says that "And when they of Ashdod arose early on the morrow, behold, Dagon was fallen upon his face to the earth before the ark of the LORD. And they took Dagon, and set him in his place again." God had TORN DOWN THEIR IDOL and was angry at them for taking the Ark to a sinful place.
In 1 Samuel 5:4, it continues with "And when they arose early on the morrow morning, behold, Dagon was fallen upon his face to the ground before the ark of the LORD; and the head of Dagon and both the palms of his hands were cut off upon the threshold; only the stump of Dagon was left to him."
In the next verses, it said they never reentered the temple after giving the Ark back.
Not only that, but 1 Samuel 5:9 said "And it was so, that, after they had carried it about, the hand of the LORD was against the city with a very great destruction: and he smote the men of the city, both small and great, and they had emerods in their secret parts."
God started to punish them for what they had done. Both worshiping a merman and stealing the Ark. It was so bad they returned it themselves to stop God's wrath! They didn't go back into that temple after that day, after retrieving the Ark. Scary, right?

So, by dressing up as mermaids, could we be encouraging idolization of ourselves or encouraging the "magic" that mermaids are "real", which would by lying, which is a sin? Is the example of Dagon being torn down and the people killed a sign that males should not put on mertails? Could it be a sin to dress up as a mermaid, even though we promote Christian values?
Are we leading children astray and teaching them that magic is real, or giving them the thought and letting them think wrong thoughts without telling them the truth?
Matthew 18:6 - "But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and [that] he were drowned in the depth of the sea."



I'm honestly curious as to your thoughts, brothers and sisters!
I want to stay right on my path and be able to uphold my own beliefs while being able to explain to others how I can be a "mermaid" and a Christian!


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[Rebela Hunter]

Thank you, Joie! I'd love to know what your Bible Study leader thinks about this!

Because of the points I listed, I make sure to always let kids know that I am a mermaid, but not in the magical sense. [i.e. mermaids are real - they're people who dress up in fish tails]. The ocean is not my home, and I am human. Magic isn't real. etc.

But I definitely don't want to contradict my faith by doing something I'm not supposed to.
I'm just so stuck with no answers!

[Mermaid Joie]

I have a feeling he's going to point us back to these verses that we've discussed before 1 Corinthians 8 verses 4-9. I mentioned Romans 12 by mistake, I was thinking of these verses. Where Paul talks about food offered to idols. This is also where the weaker brother principle comes from. I encourage you to read the whole chapter for yourself before reading anyone's interpretation, just let God speak to you.


Thank you, Joie! I'd love to know what your Bible Study leader thinks about this!

Because of the points I listed, I make sure to always let kids know that I am a mermaid, but not in the magical sense. [i.e. mermaids are real - they're people who dress up in fish tails]. The ocean is not my home, and I am human. Magic isn't real. etc.

But I definitely don't want to contradict my faith by doing something I'm not supposed to.
I'm just so stuck with no answers!


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[TritonsGuard]

You probably know this, but he or she picket out the last part a verse to purposely attack your faith for nothing more then to get pleasure out of it. I doubt he or she read anything more. I read "Romans 14" from the beginning, and it seems to me that it is talking about you and I then about other things. Funny enough, it is more about not judging others and what ever you do, do for God's glory. I recommend you read the whole verse. It may make things a bit clearer.

[Rebela Hunter]

Ah, yes, I've read that verse before, Joie!
My Dad, who is very based in his faith, said I should heed that as well.

I know that people don't worship mermaids, per say, but people DO still worship magic.
My way that I came up with of defeating that is if I am asked if I am magical, a 'real mermaid' in the magical sense, what spell I used to get my tail, or anything like that, I have to speak the truth, as to not be a stumbling block to someone else who may be trying to find God. Especially the little children!
I don't make it a point to take off and put on my tail unseen because I want people to know I am human, a perfectly made child of our Father.

It makes it hard to be a pro mermaid, though, as most parents want you to play along and be the mysterious cousin of Ariel with magical powers and a home under the sea.

[Rebela Hunter]

TritonsGuard //
Actually, God says to judge righteously!
John 7:24 - "Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment."

I have had people cherry-pick the Bible to try and attack me. But their attacks were obviously idiotic and very much a stab at me by Satan. I was not convicted then.
But this person has me very convicted to find out the truth!
I know that they were trying to get me to doubt my faith, but Satan always picks on your flaws first. People who are against you will always look for what you're doing wrong and attack you for it.
What if being a mermaid or merman is a flaw? What if dressing up as a magical, mythical creature misleads many? What if it causes some people to turn away from Christ, or become false Christians?

I'm sorry to say, but you can do many things for "God's Glory" and be totally wrong and on the path to your own destruction. You can murder and claim it's for God's Glory, but does that make it true?
Romans is talking about us - that's why I'm concerned! If it is a sin to be a merman, or even a mermaid, then I want nothing to do with it! It could be just as contradicting as a murderous Christian or etc.!

Sorry for the extreme comparisons, but it's hard to compare something like this gently.

[TritonsGuard]

Perhaps I was a bit vague, but the verse seemed to say to accept those weak of faith and not have contempt for them and vice versa.

Secondly, as I said to Mermaid Lotus a long time ago, sin has more to do with "how and why," than "what" is done (though there are exceptions). For instance, sex is not evil, but can be used sinfully (adultery etc.). Killing is not a sin either, but murder is. That does not mean we should refrain completely for all our lives without it. We should train ourselves to only do things for Godly purposes, but sometimes there is no way God would be pleased with certain acts or behaviors. Can I ask (and this is not a rhetorical question, I am curious) what in mermaiding, or dressing up in any costume for that matter, would drive you away from God or displease him? Is it becoming an idol to you (you are placing it above God)?

Lastly, You are right that many have done horrible things in God's name, and that does not make it acceptable, but that was not my point. I was stating that in all we do try to do so to please God. God would not be pleased with sin, so you cannot truly do so for his glory. You can only claim to be, but claiming does not make it so. In short, seek things out that will please God.

Don't get me wrong. You are right to fear our almighty God, but make sure that what ever you do, It is what he wants.

[Agent Dragon]

Ah, yes, I've read that verse before, Joie!
My Dad, who is very based in his faith, said I should heed that as well.

I know that people don't worship mermaids, per say, but people DO still worship magic.
My way that I came up with of defeating that is if I am asked if I am magical, a 'real mermaid' in the magical sense, what spell I used to get my tail, or anything like that, I have to speak the truth, as to not be a stumbling block to someone else who may be trying to find God. Especially the little children!
I don't make it a point to take off and put on my tail unseen because I want people to know I am human, a perfectly made child of our Father.

It makes it hard to be a pro mermaid, though, as most parents want you to play along and be the mysterious cousin of Ariel with magical powers and a home under the sea.

This got me thinking: am I sinning when I play along with the little kids I encounter at the beach or the pool? I'm not professional, but when a child asks me if I'm a real mermaid, I give a noncommittal answer and let them come to their own conclusion. You got me wondering if I should be doing that.
I thought and prayed about it, and I realized something: Mermaiding is not unique in this aspect. I have a lot of friends, including many devout Christians, who play Dungeons and Dragons, for example. If you think about it, the two hobbies are quite similar. Both involve pretending that magic and mythical creatures are real, if only for a few hours at a time. But that doesn't mean we truly believe that. I'm fact, we roleplay because we know it is nothing more than fantasy.
I'm not saying your should change what you're doing. I merely want to set my own mind at ease and put in my two cents on the topic.



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[Mermaid Joie]

I was more concerned a about the possiblity of leading someone to lust if they see me in a revealing shell top. I am trying to design mine to be at least as modest as a swim suit. On my way to church I'll have a better answer when I get back.

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[Rebela Hunter]

This got me thinking: am I sinning when I play along with the little kids I encounter at the beach or the pool? I'm not professional, but when a child asks me if I'm a real mermaid, I give a noncommittal answer and let them come to their own conclusion. You got me wondering if I should be doing that.
I thought and prayed about it, and I realized something: Mermaiding is not unique in this aspect. I have a lot of friends, including many devout Christians, who play Dungeons and Dragons, for example. If you think about it, the two hobbies are quite similar. Both involve pretending that magic and mythical creatures are real, if only for a few hours at a time. But that doesn't mean we truly believe that. I'm fact, we roleplay because we know it is nothing more than fantasy.
I'm not saying your should change what you're doing. I merely want to set my own mind at ease and put in my two cents on the topic.



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But, see, when you play Dungeons and Dragons, you have people who willingly come to participate in the game, know the game is just fantasy, and play along.
With kids, and showing up randomly or being a surprise, they may not know the difference. I know many kids who'd ask me what spell I used to get my tail, believing even just a fabric tail to be real!

When kids ask me if I'm a mermaid, I do say yes - because it's true! I, at that moment, fit the description of a mermaid. A woman with the lower body of a fish.
BUT, if I am asked if I am magic, if I used a spell, if I am human, if my tail is just a costume, if I live in the ocean, etc. then I have to tell the truth. Otherwise that is lying to children, and I don't want to become a stumbling block to anyone, especially the most innocent among humanity.

If it were decided upon beforehand that the children knew I'd come dressed up as a mermaid, then that'd be different, as it's just fantasy!

[Rebela Hunter]

Perhaps I was a bit vague, but the verse seemed to say to accept those weak of faith and not have contempt for them and vice versa.

Secondly, as I said to Mermaid Lotus a long time ago, sin has more to do with "how and why," than "what" is done (though there are exceptions). For instance, sex is not evil, but can be used sinfully (adultery etc.). Killing is not a sin either, but murder is. That does not mean we should refrain completely for all our lives without it. We should train ourselves to only do things for Godly purposes, but sometimes there is no way God would be pleased with certain acts or behaviors. Can I ask (and this is not a rhetorical question, I am curious) what in mermaiding, or dressing up in any costume for that matter, would drive you away from God or displease him? Is it becoming an idol to you (you are placing it above God)?

Lastly, You are right that many have done horrible things in God's name, and that does not make it acceptable, but that was not my point. I was stating that in all we do try to do so to please God. God would not be pleased with sin, so you cannot truly do so for his glory. You can only claim to be, but claiming does not make it so. In short, seek things out that will please God.

Don't get me wrong. You are right to fear our almighty God, but make sure that what ever you do, It is what he wants.

You do have a very good point! Thank you for the clarification!
I definitely do not want to put mermaiding or my tail above God whatsoever, nor is it my idol, but it would be a sin to mislead children. It's not so much wearing the tail but leading others to lust or astray.

And I want to make my mermaiding about God. I want to make Instagram posts and stuff like that relate to God, at least slightly, because I want the Glory to go to Him! I want to be an activist Christian mermaid, but I want to make sure I can uphold the fact that I can be a mermaid and a Christian and still do His bidding. If not, then it'd be better for me to forget about the whole mermaid thing.

I'm just hoping to get some insight from the merChristian community, and this has been super helpful !

[Rebela Hunter]

I was more concerned a about the possiblity of leading someone to lust if they see me in a revealing shell top. I am trying to design mine to be at least as modest as a swim suit. On my way to church I'll have a better answer when I get back.

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You are definitely right about that!
God calls both men and women to be modest, so it may lead others to lust.

I, personally, wear skirts and shirts that always cover everything except my neck, ankles, and arms to avoid being a stumblingblock to anyone, since these days people can apparently lust towards the opposite sex. :(

To avoid helping others to lust, I usually wear shirts or some outfit / costume that covers my stomach and cleavage as much as possible.
Tankinis are really good for that, if you don't feel that a shirt fits your mersona!
There's many creative ways to stay modest but look like a great mermaid!
< 3

[Rebela Hunter]

By the way, I do appreciate you all helping me come to a conclusion!
I appreciate it very much, and may God bless you all!

< 3

[Mermaid Joie]

So my bible study leader said we aren't worshipping idols by dressing up as mermaids. I mentioned the Dagon thing and he said he would have to look it up. So I guess we need more information on that first.

He said we could consider ourselves Christian Fantasy like entertainment like in Narnia, Lord of The Rings, Pilgrims progress. He did say to be careful about how we present ourselves to children. But as with any character as they get older the come to understand it is just a costume and we shouldn't try to convince them other wise. So the way I understand it right now if you meet a three year old it's ok to let them think you are a mermaid. "But if a child is like what spell did you use?" Then tell them you are just performing.
I told my bible study leader that some mers were really really in to mystism and things like tarrot card readings and included these as part of their act/story and can lead kids as stray this way. He said that they were already into it and that is the desire of their heart to lead people astray with that crap not mine. Basically the mermaid tail is not the problem the way you use it is (or is not) the problem. Everything we do as Christian mermaids should point people back to Biblical values and what God has put in our heart. We may be able to use our tails as a tool to share parable like stories that teach children important lessons.

This might be helpful but I am also a little worn out right now and may not have remembered everything he said or repeated it clearly, but I will keep the discussion going with him and pray about this more. Especially about what we are supposed to say to kids. I don't have peace about this yet. It is best to wait until then. Keep praying ask God to speak to you about this.

It's so funny, I have been asking myself the same thing right before this thread was started.

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[Rebela Hunter]

So my bible study leader said we aren't worshiping idols by dressing up as mermaids. I mentioned the Dagon thing and he said he would have to look it up. So I guess we need more information on that first.

He said we could consider ourselves Christian Fantasy like entertainment like in Narnia, Lord of The Rings, Pilgrims progress. He did say to be careful about how we present ourselves to children. But as with any character as they get older the come to understand it is just a costume and we shouldn't try to convince them other wise. So the way I understand it right now if you meet a three year old it's ok to let them think you are a mermaid. "But if a child is like what spell did you use?" Then tell them you are just performing.
I told my bible study leader that some mers were really really in to mysticism and things like tarrot card readings and included these as part of their act/story and can lead kids as stray this way. He said that they were already into it and that is the desire of their heart to lead people astray with that crap not mine. Basically the mermaid tail is not the problem the way you use it is (or is not) the problem. Everything we do as Christian mermaids should point people back to Biblical values and what God has put in our heart. We may be able to use our tails as a tool to share parable like stories that teach children important lessons.

This might be helpful but I am also a little worn out right now and may not have remembered everything he said or repeated it clearly, but I will keep the discussion going with him and pray about this more. Especially about what we are supposed to say to kids. I don't have peace about this yet. It is best to wait until then. Keep praying ask God to speak to you about this.

It's so funny, I have been asking myself the same thing right before this thread was started.

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Thank you very much for sharing his insight with me and the rest of us curious mers!
That sounds very reasonable. I do plan on focusing my efforts on glorifying God as much as possible while in my tail, so what he said was very helpful!
And I've been thinking about this question / problem for a while, but when that person commented about it, it just really convicted me to find some answers.
I'll keep my prayers going as well! I'll try to study on Dagon some more if I can, as well.

Thank you again, Joie!
You've been an incredible blessing!
And thank you to everyone else who answered with their thoughts!
< 3

[Mermaid Joie]

0_0 What the crap???? I didn't know they had a thread too... That is weird that we were just talking about that....
So... you can see there are a variety of beliefs and intents in the mercommunity....

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170807/1c995c58763910dc1a924d180eb6c1bc.jpg

***this is not intended to harass other merfolk for their beliefs but rather to point out in any large community you will have a broad mix of beliefs***

Disclaimer: I don't believe it is ever ok to harass someone for their beliefs even if I don't agree with them. I am very much against the type of Christian that just runs around yelling at people telling them they are going to hell. That is not the intent of this post. And that is not the way to convert anyone or exemplify Christ's love. I strive to exemplify the qualities and values of Christ, share his love, and speak the truth to others. I believe that following Christ is a personal choice that someone makes when they are well informed and have the desire to accept him. You cannot scare anyone into becoming a Christian and that is just plain wrong. A man convinced against his will, is of the same opinion still."- Benjamin Franklin.

Ok now that I have hopefully avoided any online fighting.
********************************

My point is that, this kind of reinforces what my bible study leader was saying. That people were already in to witchcraft and paganism before they got into mermaiding and will use that to spread their beliefs just like we want to spread Christianity.
I still haven't figured out what to say to kids... Perhaps I will talk to my neighbor's daughter having an actual conversation with a kid will provide more perspective. I encourage all of you to do the same.

Tell me what you think.

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[Rebela Hunter]

Joie,
I think a thread that can help is this one:
https://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?5012-Questions-Kids-Ask&highlight=questions+kids

They have lots of questions kids have asked them, and it might be insightful as to what obstacles kids will throw at you!
That's how I learned to agree that I am a mermaid, but am not magic and the like. : )

And you're very right with the whole people believe what they want to!
It's made me realize that it's no sin or stumbling block to dress up as a mermaid as long as I am truthful to those who ask. But it is ultimately either a parent's decision or the adult's decision to believe what they want to believe.
<3

[Mermaid Bree]

Curiously, the unicorn was used as one of the 'secret' symbols of the early church. It alludes to the uniqueness among other things. Unicorns (as typically depicted) do not exist either - that does NOT mean we have to abandon any sort of interest or appreciation of such. Perhaps a way to open the 'door' is to allude to ALL G_d's creatures, creatures of the sea. That perhaps you are an 'ambassador' for them? Psychologically, maybe infer that we ALL can be what we want to be what Nature WANTS us to be... And that for example, the little ones can be 'ambassadors' too. And regarding 'spells', etc, gently channel that back around to what NATURE want's them to be?

[lotusauriel]

0_0 What the crap???? I didn't know they had a thread too... That is weird that we were just talking about that....
So... you can see there are a variety of beliefs and intents in the mercommunity....

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170807/1c995c58763910dc1a924d180eb6c1bc.jpg

***this is not intended to harass other merfolk for their beliefs but rather to point out in any large community you will have a broad mix of beliefs***

Disclaimer: I don't believe it is ever ok to harass someone for their beliefs even if I don't agree with them. I am very much against the type of Christian that just runs around yelling at people telling them they are going to hell. That is not the intent of this post. And that is not the way to convert anyone or exemplify Christ's love. I strive to exemplify the qualities and values of Christ, share his love, and speak the truth to others. I believe that following Christ is a personal choice that someone makes when they are well informed and have the desire to accept him. You cannot scare anyone into becoming a Christian and that is just plain wrong. A man convinced against his will, is of the same opinion still."- Benjamin Franklin.

Ok now that I have hopefully avoided any online fighting.
********************************

My point is that, this kind of reinforces what my bible study leader was saying. That people were already in to witchcraft and paganism before they got into mermaiding and will use that to spread their beliefs just like we want to spread Christianity.
I still haven't figured out what to say to kids... Perhaps I will talk to my neighbor's daughter having an actual conversation with a kid will provide more perspective. I encourage all of you to do the same.

Tell me what you think.

Sent from my VS988 using MerNetwork mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=95032)Yet still, your wording, and that big "WHAAAA?" is the same as throwing stones. Whether we choose to dress up as creatures of fantasy or not, we ARE all still humans, with all of the diversity that the human species comes with. We all have different beliefs, and religion, ANY religion, is a personal choice, and should never be forced upon or proselytized to anyone. And actually, I find anyone actually using mermaiding (which is a form of entertainment, either personal or professional), to spread religion, is yet another form of hypocrisy that is very very wrong. Your allusion to pagan "intent" is extremely biased and incorrect. People are what they are. And no pagan ever went anywhere trying to sell their religion to anyone.

***Admins*** I propose that MerNetwork being what it is, perhaps specifically incendiary topics of religion/spirituality, politics, and sex/sexuality should be taken elsewhere. I for one, will not be part of any group that actually embraces this kind of abject bigotry.

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[Mermaid Joie]

I am sorry, that was intended as my reaction. You are right that does sound off. I think if you read my post you can see that is not my intent and it wasn't addressed to you. Thought is hard to see people's hearts and their expressiveness online so I understand how it could come off that way. I really and truely did not mean to upset you. Perhaps stuff like this is better discussed in private conversation where it can be read in context.

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[Mermaid Joie]

Curiously, the unicorn was used as one of the 'secret' symbols of the early church. It alludes to the uniqueness among other things. Unicorns (as typically depicted) do not exist either - that does NOT mean we have to abandon any sort of interest or appreciation of such. Perhaps a way to open the 'door' is to allude to ALL G_d's creatures, creatures of the sea. That perhaps you are an 'ambassador' for them? Psychologically, maybe infer that we ALL can be what we want to be what Nature WANTS us to be... And that for example, the little ones can be 'ambassadors' too. And regarding 'spells', etc, gently channel that back around to what NATURE want's them to be?

That is very interesting about the unicorn I will have to look that up.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/2c8c34c40bbbc48a457c9679b09a9e03.jpg

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[Mermaid Joie]

Let's lighten up a bit guys.

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[Mermaid_Izzy]

Yet still, your wording, and that big "WHAAAA?" is the same as throwing stones. Whether we choose to dress up as creatures of fantasy or not, we ARE all still humans, with all of the diversity that the human species comes with. We all have different beliefs, and religion, ANY religion, is a personal choice, and should never be forced upon or proselytized to anyone. And actually, I find anyone actually using mermaiding (which is a form of entertainment, either personal or professional), to spread religion, is yet another form of hypocrisy that is very very wrong. Your allusion to pagan "intent" is extremely biased and incorrect. People are what they are. And no pagan ever went anywhere trying to sell their religion to anyone.

***Admins*** I propose that MerNetwork being what it is, perhaps specifically incendiary topics of religion/spirituality, politics, and sex/sexuality should be taken elsewhere. I for one, will not be part of any group that actually embraces this kind of abject bigotry.

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I have to agree with MerGreg. I understand the Pagan/Witchcraft Thread was brought up in our conversation, but it was only as we were discussing a matter amongst ourselves. It was never intended to offend anyone. I also understand you have listed your religion as Pagan, which I assume your comment here was led by the photo of the thread.

I would like to say that this is a Christian Mer Thread. Therefore as Christians we are called by the God to go into the world and proclaim his gospel. To me, and I am sure basically every else here can agree, we want to give our whole life to God. So if we refrained from telling the truth in our tail (a part of our life) about the love of Jesus Christ, then we wouldn't be true to God or fulfilling our beliefs.


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[Mermaid Joie]

I have to agree with MerGreg. I understand the Pagan/Witchcraft Thread was brought up in our conversation, but it was only as we were discussing a matter amongst ourselves. It was never intended to offend anyone. I also understand you have listed your religion as Pagan, which I assume your comment here was led by the photo of the thread.

I would like to say that this is a Christian Mer Thread. Therefore as Christians we are called by the God to go into the world and proclaim his gospel. To me, and I am sure basically every else here can agree, we want to give our whole life to God. So if we refrained from telling the truth in our tail (a part of our life) about the love of Jesus Christ, then we wouldn't be true to God or fulfilling our beliefs.


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Thank you Mermaid Izzy! The photo showing up in people's feeds was also my reason for the seemingly irrelvent meme. I did that so something else will show up in people's threads but I am not sure if that actually worked or not.

I will take down the original photo if it upsets Mers, but if the Admins need to look at anything it is going to be hard to figure out what people are talking about. Again my intention in posting the photos was to point out the diversity of beliefs amongst merfolk and the sperateness of those beliefs from tail use. I will try to be more tactful in the future.

I am a very expressive bubbly person, but that doesn't always translate well online. So I can see where she is coming from.
I will be happy to apologize and correct my posts if I have broken any Mernetwork rules.

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[Mermaid Joie]

I would really like to get back to the original discussion which started on page 19.

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[Mermaid_Izzy]

I would really like to get back to the original discussion which started on page 19.

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I agree.


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[Mermaid Bree]

[QUOTE=Mermaid Joie;283883]That is very interesting about the unicorn I will have to look that up.

http://www.catholic-saints.info/catholic-symbols/unicorn-christian-symbol.htm

[Rebela Hunter]

I know you want to get back into the discussion I began on page 19, but I must say something.
I do apologize in advance, as I know nobody is liking this argument.

Lotus, We did not go out and attack anyone.
Joie, you were just proving your point that it's not wearing the tail that makes the difference, it's how you use it. Like a weapon, of sorts! By referencing a thread that had a recent post and was bumped to the top of the page, it is your right to say anything about it, because it is made public. If someone posted something, such as a thread, and didn't want anyone else commenting on it, as long as it was not harassment, then it should not be on the internet, a PUBLIC place to speak whatever you want to say and be heard. Nothing you said, Joie, struck me as an attack.

If I am not allowed to educate people about my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in a group meant for people who all mermaid WITH A PURPOSE, whether spiritual or non-spiritual, then this is not the site for me and I will found a new site that is more inclusive than this one! I will proudly proclaim His name no matter what I do - mermaiding, art, any job really. Being a mermaid is inspiring others to follow your cause. Some represent the gays, some represent ocean conservation, and some, like myself, represent God and His love. What is wrong with that? Who are you to judge a person's motives? The only exception is if someone uses a mermaid tail for supporting aggressive causes, such as justifying murder or something crazy like that. Which, in all honesty, I don't think would go far, mermaid or not.
Nobody here has thrown stones or hated on anyone except you. Even if she were to say that Paganism is a sin, IT'S HER OPINION. Has she specifically targeted anyone and said "they need to die because they practice magic"? No!
Joie doesn't need to be attacked for speaking her mind and trying to help me better understand my convictions, as everyone is diverse and thinks differently. She doesn't seem like a person that intentionally goes out to attack people, as all I've gotten from her is a sweet and considerate woman that is trying to help a community out with her thoughts and opinions.

And thank you, Mermaid Izzy and MerGreg, for uplifting Joie. I'm tired of seeing hate and drama, and I'm glad people still care about one another.
I'm sorry, Joie, for starting this. I did not know that you'd be attacked for trying to help me make sense of the whole Christian mermaid thing.

God did command us to love one another and to forgive, so I forgive you, Lotus, for wrongfully calling us bigots and showing an intense despise towards us. I understand that you may have misconstrued Joie's message, but I'm sure you know by now that none of us had any malicious intent. God loves everyone, and as his servant I also do the same. So, peace be with you and I'll be praying for you!
<3
<hr><hr>

Okay, so, back on topic.
I do have a second question that I will post under this one, as this is getting kinda long.

[Rebela Hunter]

I've tried looking for how the unicorn was used but I didn't come up with anything conclusive.
Though, it still might be different.

Using a symbol is very much different than becoming a mythical creature.
Not many people dress up as unicorns and prance around, singing hymns, y'know?
I just find it weird...

[lotusauriel]

I know you want to get back into the discussion I began on page 19, but I must say something.
I do apologize in advance, as I know nobody is liking this argument.

Lotus, We did not go out and attack anyone.
Joie, you were just proving your point that it's not wearing the tail that makes the difference, it's how you use it. Like a weapon, of sorts! By referencing a thread that had a recent post and was bumped to the top of the page, it is your right to say anything about it, because it is made public. If someone posted something, such as a thread, and didn't want anyone else commenting on it, as long as it was not harassment, then it should not be on the internet, a PUBLIC place to speak whatever you want to say and be heard. Nothing you said, Joie, struck me as an attack.

If I am not allowed to educate people about my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in a group meant for people who all mermaid WITH A PURPOSE, whether spiritual or non-spiritual, then this is not the site for me and I will found a new site that is more inclusive than this one! I will proudly proclaim His name no matter what I do - mermaiding, art, any job really. Being a mermaid is inspiring others to follow your cause. Some represent the gays, some represent ocean conservation, and some, like myself, represent God and His love. What is wrong with that? Who are you to judge a person's motives? The only exception is if someone uses a mermaid tail for supporting aggressive causes, such as justifying murder or something crazy like that. Which, in all honesty, I don't think would go far, mermaid or not.
Nobody here has thrown stones or hated on anyone except you. Even if she were to say that Paganism is a sin, IT'S HER OPINION. Has she specifically targeted anyone and said "they need to die because they practice magic"? No!
Joie doesn't need to be attacked for speaking her mind and trying to help me better understand my convictions, as everyone is diverse and thinks differently. She doesn't seem like a person that intentionally goes out to attack people, as all I've gotten from her is a sweet and considerate woman that is trying to help a community out with her thoughts and opinions.

And thank you, Mermaid Izzy and MerGreg, for uplifting Joie. I'm tired of seeing hate and drama, and I'm glad people still care about one another.
I'm sorry, Joie, for starting this. I did not know that you'd be attacked for trying to help me make sense of the whole Christian mermaid thing.

God did command us to love one another and to forgive, so I forgive you, Lotus, for wrongfully calling us bigots and showing an intense despise towards us. I understand that you may have misconstrued Joie's message, but I'm sure you know by now that none of us had any malicious intent. God loves everyone, and as his servant I also do the same. So, peace be with you and I'll be praying for you!
<3
<hr><hr>

Okay, so, back on topic.
I do have a second question that I will post under this one, as this is getting kinda long.

I have not said anything else. I did not attack anyone. I did not throw stones. But thanks for keeping this going and using my statements against me. But no. You are obviously not attacking anyone.... right. The fact that your religion tries to force itself on others that believe differently, and not allow people their own choice and free will IS harmful. For what it's worth, my point was that ALL religios discussion is subjective. Including mine. I think some things should be left for private discussion to avoid exactly THIS situation. Thanks.

[Rebela Hunter]

Again, I'm sorry you feel that way, Lotus!
You obviously haven't read the Bible in the slightest! I'd suggest studying it yourself, or googling specific things to get verses on them. It might help you understand what a true servant of Christ is commanded to do. :)
If someone is forcing 'Christianity' down your throat, then they are wrong for bullying you into something you're not personally ready for yet. It has been proven that a person can't change their mind unless they make the choice to change it! The more someone forces it, the more it just doesn't click.
God gave us all free will, so it is ultimately up to the person themselves to accept God or not.

All we can do, as Christians, is educate!

[lotusauriel]

I am absolutely not having this discussion. I am perfectly happy with my spirituality and my gods. And they are fine with me. Don't you dare preach to me, or assume anything about what I have or have not done, or learned. THIS IS the problem I have with your religion. Everyone but you is just wrong. Do not speak to me again.

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[Rebela Hunter]

Okay then! I'll be praying for you!
<3

[lotusauriel]

Okay then! I'll be praying for you!
<3Please don't.

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[Mermaid Joie]

Again, I'm sorry you feel that way, Lotus!
You obviously haven't read the Bible in the slightest! I'd suggest studying it yourself, or googling specific things to get verses on them. It might help you understand what a true servant of Christ is commanded to do. :)
If someone is forcing 'Christianity' down your throat, then they are wrong for bullying you into something you're not personally ready for yet. It has been proven that a person can't change their mind unless they make the choice to change it! The more someone forces it, the more it just doesn't click.
God gave us all free will, so it is ultimately up to the person themselves to accept God or not.

All we can do, as Christians, is educate!
Please stop. This is not helping. This is not speaking in love. Check your spirit are you being led by it? I have already had a private conversation with Lotus and made up and she was going to ignore the thread. Everyone please stop engaging with her. Let's just get back to the discussion.

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[Mermaid Joie]

[QUOTE=Mermaid Joie;283883]That is very interesting about the unicorn I will have to look that up.

http://www.catholic-saints.info/catholic-symbols/unicorn-christian-symbol.htm
I am going to look at this

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[Slim]

Post deleted :(

[Rebela Hunter]

Anyways, now that that's over, I have found some stuff about Unicorns!

Depending on the type of Christian you ask, unicorns have different meanings, apparently!
In medieval times, the "magic" unicorn that was rumored to only be tamed by a virgin was an exampe of Christ's first coming.
And I quote, from Christological Figure

"...the unicorn in medieval bestiaries, which would lie down and place its phallic, ivory-horned meekly in a maiden's lap so that hunters might kill it--which medieval monks interpreted as an allegory of Christ allowing himself to enter the womb of the virgin Mary so that he might later be sacrificed."

They also reference:
power: as with any horned creature.
purity: the horn was believed to have the power to magically purify water, counteract poison, and cure diseases.
divine intervention: as the horn suggests divine power reaching, penetrating or transforming the mundane horse - resembling a ray of light striking the horse's forehead.


But this is only from an older kind of Christianity, apparently!
Is this what you referred to, Joie?
Or did someone else mention the unicorn thing?

[Mermaid Joie]

I appreciate everyone's support in this but I was the one that started the problem and so I am responsible for fixing it. If it can be. That stuff that just took place is exactly what I (we)are talking about. Lotus doesn't want to hear the Word at all and quite honestly she may not know what it means to turn the other cheek. But you guys do! So let's do that please.
Some of this just sounds like bait. Just don't take the bait. Pun intended.

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[Mermaid Bree]

'Twas I that introduced the Unicorn as an example of symbolism... I've been chastised as well for 'liking' them from a certain uptight, insecure fringe of 'Christians'... (Not throwing stones or anything like that - observations.)

[Rebela Hunter]

'Twas I that introduced the Unicorn as an example of symbolism... I've been chastised as well for 'liking' them from a certain uptight, insecure fringe of 'Christians'... (Not throwing stones or anything like that - observations.)

No, it's okay! I understand what you mean :)

I guess I never did see a problem with unicorns at all, really. Most every little girl knows they're entirely fictional. I am an artist and half of my characters for a comic I ended up only finishing half of were unicorns.
But, seeing as they have a background in Christianity, I'm not totally sure what to think of them now either! ^^;

I do know that unicorns were told to have boarded the Ark, but they weren't horses with horns, they were something else... like, I dunno, buffalo? I don't remember exactly...

[Mermaid Joie]

Anyways, now that that's over, I have found some stuff about Unicorns!

Depending on the type of Christian you ask, unicorns have different meanings, apparently!
In medieval times, the "magic" unicorn that was rumored to only be tamed by a virgin was an exampe of Christ's first coming.
And I quote, from Christological Figure

"...the unicorn in medieval bestiaries, which would lie down and place its phallic, ivory-horned meekly in a maiden's lap so that hunters might kill it--which medieval monks interpreted as an allegory of Christ allowing himself to enter the womb of the virgin Mary so that he might later be sacrificed."

They also reference:
power: as with any horned creature.
purity: the horn was believed to have the power to magically purify water, counteract poison, and cure diseases.
divine intervention: as the horn suggests divine power reaching, penetrating or transforming the mundane horse - resembling a ray of light striking the horse's forehead.


But this is only from an older kind of Christianity, apparently!
Is this what you referred to, Joie?
Or did someone else mention the unicorn thing?
It was something someone posted

I am still hesitant to accept the mythical creatures. I feel like the whole Mary and the unicorn thing is boardline adding to the Bible which is not right.

I'm still trying to think about how mermaids could be used in Narnia-like parables.

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[Mermaid Bree]

41800

[Rebela Hunter]

See, unicorns and mermaids are on the same level.
Apparently mermaids were used in the church, as well! But for a negative cause:

"The mermaid/siren symbol was used by the Medieval Church as embodying the lure of fleshy pleasures to be shunned by the God-fearing. The mermaid became a victim of the repressive sexual attitudes of the Christian Church. Mermaid carvings figured prominently in church decorations in the Middle Ages to symbolically serve as a vivid reminder of the fatal temptations of the flesh. These rapacious soul-eaters (the legacy of the bird-sirens) were of course not considered to have souls of their own and as a result the legends of the mermaids anxious to acquire souls arose. The Christian Church, in promoting the ideas that mermaids were dangerous temptresses and had no souls of their own, was actually stating deeply-held beliefs about all women in order to support male domination. They emphasized the supposed faithlessness and inconstancy of women, the danger of their attraction, and the unlikelihood of their gaining humanity."

I'm starting to see now that it's not the history of the mythological creature that I should be worried about, but how it's used. If the church used mermaids to show others to avoid fleshly desires, or the unicorn to symbolize something like Jesus's first coming, then dressing up as a mermaid and preaching the Gospel to all that will heed it shouldn't be that far fetched!
I think the best thing to teach children would be about the separation of fantasy and reality - their imagination can run wild, but they must have a reality check within themselves. If they start to believe and worship something that started out as fantasy, then it is the parent's job to teach them right.

So far, unless anything else is brought up, I'm not seeing any problem with mermaiding now!

Thank you all for your opinions and words!
< 3
If anyone has any other evidence towards either side, I'm still all ears!
I could always be wrong since humans have a tendency to sin, as we are all born with it.

[Mermaid Joie]

41800
Haha! XD

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[Agent Dragon]

Glad to see that everything is more or less back to normal. I saw all of the notifications on my phone (I'm subscribed to this thread) and got scared.


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[Rebela Hunter]

Glad to see that everything is more or less back to normal. I saw all of the notifications on my phone (I'm subscribed to this thread) and got scared.


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Ah, I apologize for that, Agent! :(
We didn't mean to scare you!
'Twas my fault.

I'm glad it's back to normal, as well!

[Slim]

I'll say it. It was not your fault Rebela. The faults were not your.


Ah, I apologize for that, Agent! :(
We didn't mean to scare you!
'Twas my fault.

I'm glad it's back to normal, as well!

[Agent Dragon]

I'll say it. It was not your fault Rebela. The faults were not your.

Seconded. When I said I got scared, it was meant mostly as a joke.


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[Rebela Hunter]

Seconded. When I said I got scared, it was meant mostly as a joke.


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Oh! Right.
It's hard to tell when someone is joking online now-a-days !
Geez ^^; Sorry!

[Mermaid Joie]

I stopped briefly to work on my tail.

I think we all learned today that certain things don't read well online. ***starts hhumming***
And So What we have learned applies to our lives today
and God has a lot to say in his book!
Did anybody else grow up watching Veggie Tales? XD Haha

OH!
I just realized that kind of links back to the discussion! If they can use talking vegetables to teach biblical lessons you could certainly use a mermaid tail to do the same thing. I did not grow up thinking that vegetables talk. Although I did feel slightly guilty for eating asparagus because I thought I was eating Junior. [emoji14]

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[Rebela Hunter]

I stopped briefly to work on my tail.

I think we all learned today that certain things don't read well online. ***starts hhumming***
And So What we have learned applies to our lives today
and God has a lot to say in his book!
Did anybody else grow up watching Veggie Tales? XD Haha

OH!
I just realized that kind of links back to the discussion! If they can use talking vegetables to teach biblical lessons you could certainly use a mermaid tail to do the same thing. I did not grow up thinking that vegetables talk. Although I did feel slightly guilty for eating asparagus because I thought I was eating Junior. [emoji14]

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Oh my gosh! XD
I did feel guilty eating tomatoes as a kid because of Veggie Tales! It was such a good series - I'm sad it's gone!
BUT, you do have a point!

[Slim]

"Things don't read read well online" Too much truth to this


I stopped briefly to work on my tail.

I think we all learned today that certain things don't read well online. ***starts hhumming***
And So What we have learned applies to our lives today
and God has a lot to say in his book!
Did anybody else grow up watching Veggie Tales? XD Haha

OH!
I just realized that kind of links back to the discussion! If they can use talking vegetables to teach biblical lessons you could certainly use a mermaid tail to do the same thing. I did not grow up thinking that vegetables talk. Although I did feel slightly guilty for eating asparagus because I thought I was eating Junior.

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[Mermaid Momo]

I've been avoiding this thread tbh because even as a loosely baptist witch I avoid Christianity , but I read the post from last night as the screenshot did catch my eye and didn't respond because honestly didn't really know what to say. But along with what Lotusauriel (sorry for spelling mistakes!) has said about the misconception of pagans and witches pushing the belief of magic onto children it rubs me the wrong way to hear that people use appearances outside of church settings to preach to children..

I just find it inappropriate that some of you (and I may have read an earlier post incorrectly but this is what I got from it) would tell a child that you and other performers are not real because Jesus did not create mermaids, or that you would use appearances to spread the gospel and your religion. I could see if you do that in religious settings, sure preach, catch the holy ghost, but not while you're doing a random non church related gig! You have no idea what faith a kid you're coming into is and preaching to them is just rude and super gross tbh.

I also read the posts in response to Lotus and one quote stuck out:

By referencing a thread that had a recent post and was bumped to the top of the page, it is your right to say anything about it, because it is made public. If someone posted something, such as a thread and didn't want anyone else commenting on it, as long as it was not harassment, then it should not be on the internet a PUBLIC place to speak whatever you want to say and be heard

because it is 100% correct however you don't practice what you preach because lotus saw a bumped thread and commented on it which she had every right to do, she politely voiced her concerns and opinions and to be honest you all jumped on her about how you did no wrong, Lotus is over reacting, it's her fault for being offended, etc. you posted this thread in a PUBLIC place and as such Lotus had every right to have commented her concerns on it, you brung up paganism and witches and of course a pagan mermaid showed up to correct you, and was hit with the "can't do any wrong" attitude THEN ignored! That is NOT how you handle someone criticizing something you said.

tld: Please the religion and gospel for church and religious events NOT random kids and adults at unrelated events just wanting to enjoy their day and meet a mermaid and if it's posted on the internet ANYONE can voice an opinion not just those who share a common opinion with you.

Also as a side note, like Lotus, I also read the post to mean that some believe that pagans and witches are "preaching" and spreading their faiths and beliefs to children at events, honestly I just want to know how that idea came to be because I feel the same way about anyone preaching ANY faith at non religious gigs and events.

[Mermaid Joie]

***Please read before posting***
Thank you for your perspective on this Momo. This just confirms what we were discussing privately. As we came to conclude things do not read the same way online as they do when you say them aloud. My goal was to see if biblically we can practice mermaiding and to explore the possibility of Teaching biblical values through story and symbolism, "parables" which is very different from preaching at someone and telling them to turn in their bibles to John 3:16. Examples of Christian fantasy/parables would be Narnia, and Lord of the Rings which are enjoyed all over the world by Christian and Non-Christians a like.

To answer your side note:
It is my personal belief based on my experiences at bible study that all of our actions (including mermaiding) convey what is in our hearts our values and beliefs. And it is a widely accepted Christian belief based in scripture. Here are some references
Proverbs 4:23 Guard your heart above all else,*for it is the source of life.
Ephesians 5:15 Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk — not as unwise people but as wise —
16 making the most of the time, because the days are evil.
This is discussion on how we present ourselves as mermaids (a character) and still stay true our values and beliefs. Essentially how our Christian life style effects our mermaiding. We are not forcing our beliefs on anyone we are discussing them. Ultimately we cannot control how someone presents him or herself as a Mer that is their personal choice. These are only suggestions for Christian Mers.

We have already done a great deal of private messaging between everyone and a lot of apologizing all around. The only reason the photo is still up is for admin to see. Please do not bring this up again. That my personal request to you and everyone here, not a command. There have been public and private apologies for stuff that was not said out of love on this thread. There is no need to continue shaming individuals. I want to walk in forgiveness. To do that I will not discuss the stuff with Lotus anymore.
Overall there are alot of things I could have said yesterday but I checked my spirit and saw that my heart was not in the right place so I held back. Before writing something online I always like to do a spirit check and ask myself am I building others up? Or am I saying this out of anger?

To Everyone
Bringing stuff up again after everything has been resolved is not helping. It's provoking people to anger.
***If you are still confused about anything on the thread or think there is something wrong I suggest you private message admin or contact someone privately. If they say there is still a problem I will be happy to talk to them with you. These are all suggestions and requests you are free to do want you want on this public thread that is addressed to Christian Mers but I will not engage with you if you want a fight.

Here we will continue our discussion started on page 10 for PC (or page 19 if you are mobile) If you still want to discuss the stuff with Lotus and interrupt that discussion. we will move our discussion to private message and you can ask to be included in it if you still want to know more about Christian Fantasy and values based mermaiding.

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[Rebela Hunter]

I've found a few ways to show my faith and be a mermaid as of lately!

I've decided my mersona is going to be very casual, down-to-earth, and friendly. Essentially, I'm going to be myself and not create some identity. Not that it's bad or anything, but I think kids connect more with people who seem like them, but have a unique quality. My quality would be my tail, of course!
I remember that, as a kid, I just wanted someone down to Earth but still different and unique to talk to me. That happened for me when I met people who dressed up for a church event [I think they were meant to be satyrs/fawns]. They had hooves and antlers and fuzzy deer ears, but they talked to me like any normal person and it really hit home.
Because my "mersona" is casual, I've looked around and found some apparel that has things like crosses, bible references, and other things!

I also thought of maybe creating my own shirt that says "Mermaid for Christ" on it, too! I think it'd be a fantastic thing to wear for a photoshoot, even if only a few people enjoy the photos <3

If I upload a design with that quote on it to RedBubble, you guys could have a shirt, too :O
[I've recently discovered RedBubble, so it may take me awhile to figure out how to use it!]

What do you guys think?

[Mermaid Bree]

"ChrisMer"?

[Rebela Hunter]

It was something someone posted

I am still hesitant to accept the mythical creatures. I feel like the whole Mary and the unicorn thing is boardline adding to the Bible which is not right.

I'm still trying to think about how mermaids could be used in Narnia-like parables.

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Joie, would these verses help you find mermaid Narina-like parables?:

Habakkuk 2:14 - "For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea."
Genesis 1:20 - "Then God said, "Let the waters teem with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of the heavens."
Isaiah 57:20 - "But the wicked are like the tossing sea, For it cannot be quiet, And its waters toss up refuse and mud."
Psalm 104:25 - "There is the sea, great and broad, In which are swarms without number, Animals both small and great."

[Mermaid_Izzy]

I've found a few ways to show my faith and be a mermaid as of lately!

I've decided my mersona is going to be very casual, down-to-earth, and friendly. Essentially, I'm going to be myself and not create some identity. Not that it's bad or anything, but I think kids connect more with people who seem like them, but have a unique quality. My quality would be my tail, of course!
I remember that, as a kid, I just wanted someone down to Earth but still different and unique to talk to me. That happened for me when I met people who dressed up for a church event [I think they were meant to be satyrs/fawns]. They had hooves and antlers and fuzzy deer ears, but they talked to me like any normal person and it really hit home.
Because my "mersona" is casual, I've looked around and found some apparel that has things like crosses, bible references, and other things!

I also thought of maybe creating my own shirt that says "Mermaid for Christ" on it, too! I think it'd be a fantastic thing to wear for a photoshoot, even if only a few people enjoy the photos <3

If I upload a design with that quote on it to RedBubble, you guys could have a shirt, too :O
[I've recently discovered RedBubble, so it may take me awhile to figure out how to use it!]

What do you guys think?

I think that's an awesome idea!


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[Mermaid Momo]

I am choosing not to go to PM. with thiz because the way you have brushed it off and tried to seperate yourself from it was rude af. And again i will say it, demanding people not to talk about something that offends them is not the way to go about offending someone and just up and choosing not to acknowledge how you offended someone because you just don't feel like it is also a pretty shitty thing to do. It was posted on a forum, and as such i will handle it on a forum in a public way and sure i can be called angry for pointing it out but idgaf because i just am not about to sit here and read something like " you disagree which makes you angry and I'm not about to listen so either you agree or you get ignored."

NOONE repeat no one was angry or attacking anyone (yes lotus's last post was angry but if you've had people preaching at you forever you too would be quick to have a fire lit under your ass) and claiming that anyone who comments against your beliefs is angry says a lot about you to be 100% honest.



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[Rebela Hunter]

I think that's an awesome idea!


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Thanks, Mermaid Izzy!
< 3

[Rebela Hunter]

So, here's a christian and mermaid/ocean related apparel item I found!

"In Oceans Deep My Faith Will Stand" Shirt [Womens] (https://www.etsy.com/listing/270717414/hillsong-oceans-deep-christian-tee?&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_-clothing-womens_clothing-tops_and_tees-tshirts&utm_custom1=48357465-d815-4ef4-bb5f-6db38c6c4964&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5arMBRDzARIsAAqmJez4-TxlhlP9CD8Vd5wpSwfeDuoVKxw5sx8jUDxuCW-Z3KFRDNfhqQoaAjwzEALw_wcB)

Apparently it's from a song? I've never heard it before, nor do I know the artist, but it's a really nice quote!
I plan on ordering one once I get my tail supplies !!!

[Nerdmaid Faith]

So, here's a christian and mermaid/ocean related apparel item I found!

"In Oceans Deep My Faith Will Stand" Shirt [Womens] (https://www.etsy.com/listing/270717414/hillsong-oceans-deep-christian-tee?&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_-clothing-womens_clothing-tops_and_tees-tshirts&utm_custom1=48357465-d815-4ef4-bb5f-6db38c6c4964&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5arMBRDzARIsAAqmJez4-TxlhlP9CD8Vd5wpSwfeDuoVKxw5sx8jUDxuCW-Z3KFRDNfhqQoaAjwzEALw_wcB)

Apparently it's from a song? I've never heard it before, nor do I know the artist, but it's a really nice quote!
I plan on ordering one once I get my tail supplies !!!

This is the song:
https://youtu.be/dy9nwe9_xzw
One of my favourite worship songs!

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[Rebela Hunter]

This is the song:
https://youtu.be/dy9nwe9_xzw (https://youtu.be/dy9nwe9_xzw)
One of my favourite worship songs!

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Oh gosh, thank you Faith !!!
I can't wait to give it a listen <3

[Mermaid Joie]

This is the song:
https://youtu.be/dy9nwe9_xzw
One of my favourite worship songs!

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I am back. I love that song and I love the T-shirt ideas!!!! I am still having trouble connecting the verses to the mythical creatures thing. I'll read it again in the morning when I have had more sleep. I was up working on my tail. Thanks for checking out my progress guys! I'm super excited about it and going to spend all day tomorrow on it to try and get it done for my Friday meet up. This discussion has actually inspired me to make a small addition to my tail. ;)

Dude!!! We should make a music video to that song!!!!

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[MerGreg]

Joie, would these verses help you find mermaid Narina-like parables?:

Habakkuk 2:14 - "For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea."
Genesis 1:20 - "Then God said, "Let the waters teem with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of the heavens."
Isaiah 57:20 - "But the wicked are like the tossing sea, For it cannot be quiet, And its waters toss up refuse and mud."
Psalm 104:25 - "There is the sea, great and broad, In which are swarms without number, Animals both small and great."

What this all comes down to: The earth (and the sea) is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof. He has sovereign control over all life and creation, and all things can give Him glory. Whatever your hand finds to do, do it as unto the Lord, including mermaiding.

Rebela, Joie and Izzy, I am LOVING your passion here. Faith, thanks for linking Oceans! You guys are awesome.