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Dec 22, 2023Liked by Caroline J. Williams

So, that's what it's called: disentangling. What an apt word. As someone who comes from a lifetime of spiritual abuse in a cult-like denomination that considered itself the True Church, I've described the extrication process as like doing surgery. The false doctrine wraps its tentacles around you and does not let you go easily. Getting out from under it all is a process involving time and often fear because what you are disposing of was once considered the difference between heaven and hell. In that group, if you don't get certain elements of your doctrine right....it's tough cookies for you, regardless of how well-intentioned you might have been. That can be scary stuff.

But, I now have a new appreciation now for the "heart." I once esteemed head knowledge above all things. Now, I'm learning the value of an experience of God that very much involves the heart. I'm slowly moving into it. Better late than never. (And this, then, ties into your post about being "with" God and people....from the heart.) :-)

Merry Christmas and thank you for another lovely post.

Ellen R.

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Yes, I think "head knowledge over the heart" describes some of my own past, too. And the surgery analogy is a good one. I am so very sorry you experienced that hurt and abuse, and I pray that you continue to find healing. Merry Christmas to you, too! Thank you for your lovely comment! 🤎

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Love it. And some church pain can be rooted in not teaching/living the true meaning of Emmanuel: God with us - truly exercising this in our lives knowing Christ is literally in our midst. God with us = Jesus and His love operating in u, so that when those in need are aching for comfort during pain and shame, we as the body of Christ, can effortlessly extend “God with us” (versus shame, ridicule, and defeat that many experience when they fall short).

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Yes, exactly!! Thanks for commenting friend. xx

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