The Feelings of Those Who Walk Away from the LDS Faith

In today’s world, personal beliefs and religious affiliations can undergo significant transformations. This article explores the experiences of individuals who have left the LDS (Mormon) faith and the emotions they face later in life. We will delve into their struggles, personal growth, and the challenges they encounter as they navigate their new lives.

The Struggle and Eventually the Growth

As an experienced ex-mormon who was a member of the faith for 30 years, I can attest to the profound change that occurs when one decides to leave the LDS faith. Initially, I was part of the church for its long-standing traditions and beliefs. However, over time, I realized that I was excluded from many activities within the church and felt repeatedly as though I was seen as a failure.

I finally faced my mental health struggles and revealed them to a counselor who also served as a stake president in another province. During our conversation, I was informed that my struggles could be seen as a sin only if I was actively trying to overcome them. This revelation led me to develop a personal relationship with God outside the church. Over the following 15 years, I continued to distance myself from the church, as it no longer met my spiritual needs.

Questioning the Faith: The Role of the Devil in LDS and Ex-Mormon Communities

As a long-time Christian before joining the LDS faith, I have often pondered the role of the devil in the church. What if the teachings and doctrines of the LDS faith have been manipulated by the devil to deceive members and ex-members? Could the same forces that once led members to the church now lead them to reject any form of belief in God?

Considering this scenario, ex-members often find themselves questioning their previous beliefs and frequently turn to platforms like Reddit, where they express their doubts about not only the church but also God and the Bible. Many ex-Mormons, numbering over 270,000 in a single sub-group, have shifted to atheism or other non-religious beliefs.

One possible explanation is that the devil, as a deceiver, might have led ex-members to reject the truth about God. Consequently, they might now be saying, “There is no God,” having been deceived by false teachings.

Discovering a New Path to Faith

Despite the challenges, some ex-Mormons have found a new path to faith. After years of research and study, I have encountered a growing number of people who have left the LDS faith but have discovered a new, authentic relationship with Jesus Christ. These individuals are actively sharing their findings with others in the LDS community, often through online platforms such as Faith After Mormonism.

These groups offer mentorship and support to others who are questioning their faith. They emphasize finding a true and personal relationship with Jesus that differs from the teachings they received in the church. Many of these individuals relate that they have always believed in Jesus, but their leaders led them to believe in a different Jesus. They seek to reconnect with the genuine faith they previously ignored.

I highly recommend connecting with these groups if you are leaving the LDS faith or are questioning your beliefs. It's a supportive community that can provide guidance and hope during what can be a difficult transition.

Conclusion

Navigating life after leaving the LDS faith can be both challenging and transformative. It requires introspection, personal growth, and sometimes, a complete reevaluation of one’s beliefs. However, as we see from the experiences of those who have walked away from the church, there is a growing community of ex-Mormons finding their path to a more authentic faith. Whether through atheism, other religions, or a return to a biblical Christian faith, individuals are finding the meaning and peace they seek.

For those still in the LDS faith or those questioning it, seeking out honest and open discussions about faith and spirituality can be a life-changing experience. Ultimately, the path to understanding and connecting with God is a deeply personal one, and it’s important to embrace the journey – no matter where it may lead.