.... I am not so sure that God wants us to live in poverty. ...it seems to me like God would want us to live happily and not suffer...especially if we are living holy lives.
Do you read the Gospels?
Yes I have read the gospels.
IF, can you see that you have not answered the question I asked.
Do you read the Gospels? (present tense) In other words "do you have a habit of reading the Gospels? If you wish to understand, and live the Christian life, that is what you need to do. Read the lives of the saints. Read the spiritual writings of the saints.
You are all over the shop and you need to focus. First of all you were contemplating "What kind of lifestyle should we aim for? Rich, Poor, In-between somewhere" and now you are bemoaning your persecution when - if you are truly persecuted - you should be rejoicing and thanking God for the chance to suffer for Him.
It does seem that choosing to live a holy life attracts persecution. I don't think this is what God really wants for us though.
See, you did it again. You seem to think you know what God wants for us, or what He ought to want. You need to read and study His Word, and the writings of the evangelists, St Paul and the other saints, rather than mulling over your own imaginings.
You need to get out and live the Christian life, instead of thinking about it and all your sufferings and persecutions.
I'm thinking that you are referring to our suffering as a reflection of the suffering that Jesus Christ went though. That is my thoughts on what you are getting at. Correct me if I am wrong.
That is not wrong. If we follow Jesus we will suffer.
I honestly wonder if many people have been persecuted as much as I have. I know some have had it worse for sure.
Have you had your home bulldozed? denied an education? been stoned? imprisoned? tortured? Think about your suffering as a chance to become stronger.
Perhaps the hardest part about it is that I have been alone the entire time. Maybe it would be easier if I had someone to share the experience with.
I hope you will find a suitable companion to share with. Meanwhile learn from the saints.
2 Timothy 3:12
And all that will live godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution.
Romans 8:35
Who then shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation? or distress? or famine? or nakedness? or danger? or persecution? or the sword?
Matthew 5:10
Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.