A Word To The Wise (a few more to the otherwise!)
I usually let things run on their own, however POG has had some issues as of late. I took a leave of the site in September of 2008 and really never returned in full since then. I have shuttered A Deeper Faith (my blog) and A Point Of Faith (my co-ministry with Jim Wright). The American Christian Journal (to be renewed) and FaithPoint Connection were also allowed to lapse.
My concentration was, and is, for the work God called me to do.
I had asked to be only contacted via phone, this worked for most, but not all. I single no particular people out, in this missive to you—but each know what they did (or did not) do accordingly. I hold no animosity to anyone, but with this post intend to fully engage, starting February coming, in the comings and goings of the sites online, and those to come.
Things will be different.
At first, my inclination was to shutter ALL sites completely. Even as late as yesterday in talking with Jim I truly considered that as an action to take. But I thought about those who use rightly the things God brings for them, and how it would punish good and bad alike. This time was not the time for such action. But be warned that I will shut the site down if things are not done in orderly and Christ-like fashion. We are to emulate Christ in all things, and if we can not do so with those who walk with us, where then is our testimony in Him?
I first became aware of problems via several avenues, direct conversations (some initiated by me, others that were not) and by the last missive (email) that was in response to something the admin had written to all. My response to that should be well known by now. If not, this post should clear that up, as well as other issues, completely for all to understand.
What Pathways Of Grace (POG) is NOT
1. A dating (personals, match-making, etc.) site
2. A personal site of anyone’s ownership other than mine
3. A site to espouse a doctrine contrary to Christ, God the father, or the Holy Spirit
4. A bully pulpit to enforce a set doctrine or personal creed
5. A place to judge, condemn or chastise others (including gossip)
This is not to say there are not discussions, which can escalate or develop into contentions. That happens. But one’s love should be big enough and deep enough, to eschew pride and the need to be right, to find a level of peace. If the issue(s) is important enough to defend fiercely, then do so with kindness and restraint, allowing that not all are in the same place upon the path of faith.
Things that are truly against Christianity, or God, Christ, and/or the Holy Spirit, are patently not allowed.
What POG is, and meant to be
1. A safe harbor to share, explore and discuss our faith
2. A place to invite others to places (links, etc.) that we think are useful and of God
3. A place to find resources, videos, etc. that others have posted
4. A place of communion for God’s kids
5. A place where the Holy Bible is the final word on anything and everything
Some things to address
It has come to my attention there are those who think that I am entertaining thoughts of companionship and marriage. I am not. I am legally, therefore spiritually, married. Any hints, suggestions or thoughts that I am looking for a mate at this time are wrong. I am neither in, or intend to find, here or elsewhere, a friendship, et al, that can be expanded into that situation at this time. So no, I am not available or intend to change that status once the divorce is fully engaged.
That is my personal status.
However, in the professional arena there has been encroachment (most unintentional, some simply because they ignored my requests for non-communications) by some people. I have re-established some communications with certain individuals due to illness or urgent need, but generally had intended to stay “unplugged” until certain things were accomplished and finished. I posted that information in September of last year, I meant it.
However, February changes all that.
Starting the first of that month, I will be once again on POG. I may or may not be posting actively, but will be a presence on the site. Jim has moved on to other things and may post here and there, but all inquiries need to be sent to Daniel first (as he will remain the admin) and then if you feel you have not resolved whatever issue(s) beset you, you can contact me direct. As in all things, I may not respond immediately, but I will respond. I will engage when, how and where I deem necessary. This is by my evaluation of the need and situation—and no one else’s.
If that presents a problem for anyone, there are many sites to choose from other than POG.
It is with heavy heart that I need to address this following issue as well. When contacting someone about anything, be responsible. Some may not wish to be contacted at all. Some may even block your access, not out of spite or indifference, but because they need the “space” in their world. Constantly IM’ing and emailing them because you did not receive an immediate response (or one you wanted) will only get you banned, if it comes to my attention. This is a place of interaction, yes, but it is also a place that a person’s personal interactions with it, is dictated by them alone. Be kind.
I will enforce this policy.
I am sure that I have missed some issue or other that some will feel should have been addressed. If that is your take then email Daniel or me with it. We can not address anything that we do not have an idea is going on, or is a problem, if you do not inform us of such. We are human, and as such, not gifted with omniscience, et al. I wish for POG to be a problem-free haven of joy, blessings and sharing. Where we can come together without preconceived notions of belief and enforced doctrinal positions that are, by definition, manmade rather than God-given.
It is YOUR place, as well as mine. Play nice or play elsewhere—truly!
Be blessed, be loved and be at peace,
Jonathan (Co-Owner/Co-Founder/Admin)
P. S. To those who wish to comment on this issue, or others, again, email Daniel or myself directly. I am not allowing posts to this as it will only dilute the message.
My concentration was, and is, for the work God called me to do.
I had asked to be only contacted via phone, this worked for most, but not all. I single no particular people out, in this missive to you—but each know what they did (or did not) do accordingly. I hold no animosity to anyone, but with this post intend to fully engage, starting February coming, in the comings and goings of the sites online, and those to come.
Things will be different.
At first, my inclination was to shutter ALL sites completely. Even as late as yesterday in talking with Jim I truly considered that as an action to take. But I thought about those who use rightly the things God brings for them, and how it would punish good and bad alike. This time was not the time for such action. But be warned that I will shut the site down if things are not done in orderly and Christ-like fashion. We are to emulate Christ in all things, and if we can not do so with those who walk with us, where then is our testimony in Him?
I first became aware of problems via several avenues, direct conversations (some initiated by me, others that were not) and by the last missive (email) that was in response to something the admin had written to all. My response to that should be well known by now. If not, this post should clear that up, as well as other issues, completely for all to understand.
What Pathways Of Grace (POG) is NOT
1. A dating (personals, match-making, etc.) site
2. A personal site of anyone’s ownership other than mine
3. A site to espouse a doctrine contrary to Christ, God the father, or the Holy Spirit
4. A bully pulpit to enforce a set doctrine or personal creed
5. A place to judge, condemn or chastise others (including gossip)
This is not to say there are not discussions, which can escalate or develop into contentions. That happens. But one’s love should be big enough and deep enough, to eschew pride and the need to be right, to find a level of peace. If the issue(s) is important enough to defend fiercely, then do so with kindness and restraint, allowing that not all are in the same place upon the path of faith.
Things that are truly against Christianity, or God, Christ, and/or the Holy Spirit, are patently not allowed.
What POG is, and meant to be
1. A safe harbor to share, explore and discuss our faith
2. A place to invite others to places (links, etc.) that we think are useful and of God
3. A place to find resources, videos, etc. that others have posted
4. A place of communion for God’s kids
5. A place where the Holy Bible is the final word on anything and everything
Some things to address
It has come to my attention there are those who think that I am entertaining thoughts of companionship and marriage. I am not. I am legally, therefore spiritually, married. Any hints, suggestions or thoughts that I am looking for a mate at this time are wrong. I am neither in, or intend to find, here or elsewhere, a friendship, et al, that can be expanded into that situation at this time. So no, I am not available or intend to change that status once the divorce is fully engaged.
That is my personal status.
However, in the professional arena there has been encroachment (most unintentional, some simply because they ignored my requests for non-communications) by some people. I have re-established some communications with certain individuals due to illness or urgent need, but generally had intended to stay “unplugged” until certain things were accomplished and finished. I posted that information in September of last year, I meant it.
However, February changes all that.
Starting the first of that month, I will be once again on POG. I may or may not be posting actively, but will be a presence on the site. Jim has moved on to other things and may post here and there, but all inquiries need to be sent to Daniel first (as he will remain the admin) and then if you feel you have not resolved whatever issue(s) beset you, you can contact me direct. As in all things, I may not respond immediately, but I will respond. I will engage when, how and where I deem necessary. This is by my evaluation of the need and situation—and no one else’s.
If that presents a problem for anyone, there are many sites to choose from other than POG.
It is with heavy heart that I need to address this following issue as well. When contacting someone about anything, be responsible. Some may not wish to be contacted at all. Some may even block your access, not out of spite or indifference, but because they need the “space” in their world. Constantly IM’ing and emailing them because you did not receive an immediate response (or one you wanted) will only get you banned, if it comes to my attention. This is a place of interaction, yes, but it is also a place that a person’s personal interactions with it, is dictated by them alone. Be kind.
I will enforce this policy.
I am sure that I have missed some issue or other that some will feel should have been addressed. If that is your take then email Daniel or me with it. We can not address anything that we do not have an idea is going on, or is a problem, if you do not inform us of such. We are human, and as such, not gifted with omniscience, et al. I wish for POG to be a problem-free haven of joy, blessings and sharing. Where we can come together without preconceived notions of belief and enforced doctrinal positions that are, by definition, manmade rather than God-given.
It is YOUR place, as well as mine. Play nice or play elsewhere—truly!
Be blessed, be loved and be at peace,
Jonathan (Co-Owner/Co-Founder/Admin)
P. S. To those who wish to comment on this issue, or others, again, email Daniel or myself directly. I am not allowing posts to this as it will only dilute the message.
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Blessings,
~ Pathways Of Grace
We do however encourage you to visit the sites below that are in some form or fashion affiliated with Pathways Of Grace and are suitable for any member of the family to view. We are striving to represent Christ in all things.
Blessings,
~ Pathways Of Grace
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