The answer to the question has to come, not from the “mysticism” part, but from the first phrase, “I was brought up . . . ” You don’t really reveal whether or not you have embraced Christ and Christianity as your own belief system. You don’t refer at all to your own journey with knowing Jesus as part of your active spiritual life. From the way the question is worded, it seems more like you are “dabbling” at the Christian faith as well. So, invariably, other new experiences will be …

I see no problem with drinking alcohol as long as it’s done responsibly. But I can’t help but feel guilty when having a beer around my Christian friends that don’t drink. Where does this guilt come from?
I think you are probably the only person who can answer this question for you. But, I can give you some possible answers. I hope that you will pray honestly about which one applies to you (if any). I applaud your desire to seek out the answer. Guilt (like anger) can often be a …

I’ve decided that I will never marry. People try to convince me otherwise, telling me that I wouldn’t be able to live a fulfilled life. Some even go so far as to tell me that I would be defying God’s will. Is this true?
This is difficult to answer in your particular case, since I don’t know the process for your decision. Is this a vocational kind of calling (like a Priest or Brother or Sister) would have? Or is it simply a decision you have come to, in consideration of …

If God teaches us to love ourselves just as we are, what about appearance enhancements such as cosmetics and plastic surgery?
I don’t know of a passage which states we should “love ourselves just as we are,” although there are quite a few that proclaim that God loves us in that way. I believe there is a world of difference between the two concepts. As for “appearance enhancements,” I believe that it is, in large part, a heart and faith issue, and needs to be approached with lots of prayer and …

Q. I am really confused about who to vote for this November. I want to vote my conscience, but my conscience is split across party lines. Any tips on choosing our new Commander in Chief?
A. Voting, especially for President, is always difficult. The only way to get guidance is by doing your own research. Find issues that you feel represent what the Scripture would speak to. Seek out Scripture to find what God’s thrust (overall) is, as you read the way God has worked. Never settle for “proof texting,” or …