I’ve posted information about TLWF for almost twenty years, starting with Factnet, and have never been threatened to have personal information released from shepherd’s files. On the other hand, I’ve had plenty of accusations from those within TLWF – both in the leadership as well as followers. In the early years, I said things that I would not say now – mostly vomit. It was necessary at the time in the healing process, but not something I would want to make a life-style of. However,“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing” – Edmund Burke. I believe we have a responsibility to speak up and warn others, or we contribute to the problem.
As when the human body throws off toxins – sometimes from both ends - there is something similar that happens spiritually. Deep down, we know something is not right and our spirits wretch. I think this is also taking place to varying degrees for those still in TLWF, as well as in those who have left, because it is a toxic environment for all.
I’m sure we’re all familiar with how our relationship with our natural father affects our relationship with our Heavenly Father – at least initially. For some, that relationship was so abusive they cannot even call God, “Father”. I would suggest that the view of the Father we have received from TLWF is nothing like Him at all. In a nutshell, it was spiritual abuse. We end up being so suspicious and fearful of anything that looks like “God”, that we shut ourselves off from the very thing that can bring us life.
The reason I would so encourage those who have had involvement with TLWF to turn back to the Lord for healing is that He wants to redeem us. Our shepherd’s files are washed away. It’s a real deal, not just a doctrine. If God is for us, who can be against us? He is not the accuser of the brethren, as was so inbred into us by the culture of TLWF. He fills us with faith and heals us – in spite of our sins. When we find our hearts fearful, we’re listening to the wrong guy. The only one we have to answer to is Him anyway, and He loves us so much that He sent His son to die for our sins. He wants to make our relationship with Him healthy right now - far more than we do! That secret place in our hearts is for Him alone
As when the human body throws off toxins – sometimes from both ends - there is something similar that happens spiritually. Deep down, we know something is not right and our spirits wretch. I think this is also taking place to varying degrees for those still in TLWF, as well as in those who have left, because it is a toxic environment for all.
I’m sure we’re all familiar with how our relationship with our natural father affects our relationship with our Heavenly Father – at least initially. For some, that relationship was so abusive they cannot even call God, “Father”. I would suggest that the view of the Father we have received from TLWF is nothing like Him at all. In a nutshell, it was spiritual abuse. We end up being so suspicious and fearful of anything that looks like “God”, that we shut ourselves off from the very thing that can bring us life.
The reason I would so encourage those who have had involvement with TLWF to turn back to the Lord for healing is that He wants to redeem us. Our shepherd’s files are washed away. It’s a real deal, not just a doctrine. If God is for us, who can be against us? He is not the accuser of the brethren, as was so inbred into us by the culture of TLWF. He fills us with faith and heals us – in spite of our sins. When we find our hearts fearful, we’re listening to the wrong guy. The only one we have to answer to is Him anyway, and He loves us so much that He sent His son to die for our sins. He wants to make our relationship with Him healthy right now - far more than we do! That secret place in our hearts is for Him alone