What God May Really Be Like – Misbeliefs About God

Why Bother Since Prayer Doesn’t Really Work?

One’s relationship with God can greatly be affected because of lack of answered prayers. Many, many prayers are not answered. But, the Bible says “ask and you shall receive.” Prayer has to be more complicated than simply asking God to make something happen. God can’t just disrespect freedom but controlling the world as God wants. God can’t make one be a better parent if they have no desire to change. God can’t answer the prayer for both people asking for the same job. We may have to trust a loving God answers how we would if we knew everything God knows.

A loving God surely isn’t controlling, so the Bible may not actually reveal that we simply need to pray to get what we want. But, Mt 7:7 says: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” The passage says if we parents give good gifts despite our imperfections, will not God as our perfect Parent always give good gifts when asked. First-century readers didn’t assume this was a blank check for any request. Others passages when read in context reveal God seeks to empower but not control or overpower others against their will. Paul expects followers would face persecution for their beliefs (2 Tim. 3:12), thus many prayers today would go unanswered.

We often overlook the most important reason for praying which is relational. God already knows what we think or need. Talking simply connects us to our Creator so we may become more the people we desire to be. We tell our children to associate with the right people so to make wiser choices. If our entire prayer life was only asking God to help us love others as we want to be loved, that would be enough reason to pray. Prayer is more talking to gain support than manipulating for gain. God is always available to talk about anything on our heart but we might best leave the running of the universe up to a loving God who has the interest of all in mind.

I may communicate with my wife or friends about a decision I am making. I am not asking them to make the decision for me but it helps to talk it out loud and get their perspective. We can get God’s perspective often by listening to ourselves and others or reading the Bible. God wants us to feel free to make amoral decisions based on current desires and future aspirations. We often share with friends our circumstances as a way to lighten our burdens. Friends or God can’t magically make things better but it is better to go through things with someone than be all alone.

Prayer can be an excuse to not take actions which is the most common way that God answers prayers to not violate the freedom of others. Rather than praying your friend’s spouse stop drinking which is harming his family, you might say something to them. When you know two friends are in conflict, you might best speak to one wrongly denying any wrongdoing. Rather than praying to God to help the less fortunate, we can do something. We can pray for others but I am convinced God is already doing all they can. Are we?

Don’t allow misunderstandings of God to lead to frustrations and withdrawal from God. I view praying as simply talking to God which can be informal if you prefer. I talk to God brief times during the day when I am not preoccupied with a task at hand. I let my thoughts drift toward conversing with God as often as possible. Just like in human relationships, we can only feel more intimate with our partner when we find a way to spend more time spending time with them. When suffering I ask for relief but I ask God to stay close to me if intervening is not possible all things considered. I never pray for suffering but I ask how suffering can teach me to more be the person deep down I desire to be.

Why Is Human Reasoning (Brain) Important To Understand God And The Bible?

Some may assume about God what others have communicated based on their understanding of the Bible. Unfortunately, the Bible has been used to justify racism, gender inequality, or to suggest God wants to establish a Christian nation. God has always respected the freedom of personal beliefs, that don’t violate the rights of others, as the only path to genuine relationships. The Koran is used to justify forcing personal beliefs on others in the name of God. We must always use our brains and hearts when it comes to understanding God.

Many feel strongly that the Bible is God’s infallible inspiration. Textual criticism suggests we know over 95 percent of the words of the original manuscripts. But, it isn’t provable that God interfered with the freedom of a writer to not misrepresent God’s view on a matter, and we would have to prove God inspired others to select over time which Books should be recognized as infallible. Even if you believe the Bible is infallible, interpretations of a writer’s meaning are fallible and the writer isn’t available for clarification. Human reasoning is always necessary in getting to know God. God didn’t intend a Book to replace our relationship with God.

Since human reasoning must be used in deciding on interpretations of Scripture, we need some type of model to decide which interpretation is most likely of a loving God. When two debatable interpretations in Scriptures exist, shouldn’t we err on the side that portrays God as the most relational and rational to the human mind? Said another way God’s morals are surely the same as the highest human morals. God surely wouldn’t demand certain morals from us that God doesn’t live by.

For example some argue that the Bible teaches that God chose before creation who would or wouldn’t have eternal life. Since this doesn’t seem rational to the human mind, it is suggested God’s ways are sometimes mysterious and incomprehensible to the human mind. Earthly parents would be accused of favoritism if acting the same toward their children. Such behavior is morally indefensible and certainly not relational to the human mind concerning a loving God. Similarly, the traditional interpretation of hell is unlikely as not even humans would torture their enemies unending, knowing such suffering is pointless as it doesn’t produce any good.

This doesn’t lead to interpreting the Bible however you want. We all can agree murder, lying, or adultery is immoral. Much of the Bible is clear and we can agree to disagree on the more difficult passages. We can consider one another’s opinion gracefully if they don’t violate the freedom of others. Do we even need the Bible since it leads to so much abuse? The Bible helps to confirm certain characteristics of a Creator that might not always be intuitive. Religious leaders of Jesus’ day taught you needed to obey certain laws to gain acceptance by God. Jesus protested any teaching that suggested God’s acceptance isn’t a given as any loving parent.

If there are certain characteristics of God claimed by others that you just don’t buy, reject it! Don’t allow others’ understanding to keep you from exploring your own views. God always has our best interests in mind but doesn’t stop loving us any more than human parents stop loving us because we fail to obey. Sin effects how we feel about God, not how God feels about us. Humans may have limits as to how many times to forgive. God doesn’t and it is never too late to begin a relationship with God. I view God’s love the same as perfect, human, parenting love that we have always desired.

How Does An Invisible God Talk To Humans?

It can be very confusing how one is supposed to relate to an invisible God. Frustrations can lead to simply giving up having a meaningful relationship with one’s Creator. I understand some claim God has spoken to them directly but this is not the experience of the majority of those who are seeking a relationship with their Creator. Many may prefer that God would speak more directly but this doesn’t always leads to the results we may think.

The Bible suggests that God with the first couple spoke more directly in the garden than as history progressed. Moses described receiving the Commandments on stone inscribed by the finger of God (Ex. 31:18). We don’t know exactly what types of communication these were but most would agree that God is no longer communicating in the same way. Least you think direct ways by God led to inspired living, you may want to reread the Old Testament. Besides, God wants us to come to God on our own terms and not because of feeling overwhelmed or obligated.

Since God doesn’t speak audibly or write in the sand, how can we know that we hear the voice of God? Many of us talk out loud to God or silently and then thoughts come to mind. Are such thoughts from the mind of God? I got some good news and bad news. We can’t know if certain thoughts are inspired by God, but the good news is God’s love is supportive not controlling. God gives us freedom to make decisions in an open future. Any number of decisions can be made in our situation as a predetermined future suggests one is not truly free to do anything different.

God mainly listens which is what most of us want in a relationship. Very few of us want to be told what to do, or we would always take the advice of others rather than frequently having a comeback as to why one’s suggestion won’t work. Opinions are not always helpful or welcomed. Besides, one’s interference can prevent growth and self-satisfaction resulting from making independent choices. We want to be heard by another soul to talk out situations and share burdens that are heavy to carry alone.

If can be comforting to know God is always available to listen. We may be embarrassed to share our latest relapse with a friend. God doesn’t heap more guilt on us. God has endless mercy and forgiveness so we don’t give up no matter how demoralized we may feel. God is always available in times of loneliness. Friends can’t always be available in the middle of the night. We may feel that we are overburdening our friends by constantly going to them. God’s shoulders surely are much bigger.

But, I want to hear what God thinks! We know mostly what God thinks thus talking with God is mostly for emotional support. Most agree on moral versus immoral actions. Many decisions aren’t moral – what job to take, whether to move to a different city, etc. God doesn’t predetermine our future so we have to wonder the “right” decision. God doesn’t know if your partner is suddenly not going to honor their commitment when challenges arise. Wise or best decisions are simply taking into account past experiences, current circumstances, future aspirations, and going for it. God’s love is both freeing and uncontrolling.

Some relational decisions seem to have a touch of morality that we aren’t sure what God would do. God’s love is still freeing. Should we forgive a mom and sibling for participating in favoritism? Neither admits to any favoritism but such actions are clear to most outsiders. The Bible can be used to suggest always forgive or forgiveness if only possible when one acknowledges wrongdoing. Jesus once said to rebuke others but if they repent forgive them (Lk. 17:4). God isn’t hiding. One may forgive to best deal with personal bitterness. Others may not forgive to avoid further bitterness since the guilty denies wrongdoing.

In relationships there isn’t always a “right” thing to do. It is more complicated for leaders of nations for they are making decisions for millions, thus governments best have checks and balances. Still, a relationship with God isn’t about being told what to do. It is considering how a loving God may think on a matter and feeling free to make a decision based on your present circumstances. If you are insisting God make sure whatever decision make guarantee outcome, then you asking God to be a controller. A loving God would speak audibly if necessary; otherwise, assume you have God’s blessings if it isn’t immoral or violating the rights of others. Don’t live in fear or demand certainty which God cannot guarantee in a free world.

What If God Is A Lie Or Delusion?

Many find it reasonable to believe there is a God, a Creator, or a Supreme Being greater than them. The advantage of a belief in an invisible God is to believe there is a definitive source for wisdom in how one ought to live this life. Most who believe in a God believe in God’s inherent goodness. Many though aren’t sure that God exists but they don’t believe in doing whatever the hell they want. Most rational beings believe there are moral and immoral decisions.

There are some advantages in believing in a Creator or taking a leap of faith if on the fence. It is typically believed a creator or designer should know what is best for what they have created or designed. A designer of a car can provide the best instructions of what is best for the car to enable it to run smoothly. A Creator of human beings can be a source of wisdom in advising what decisions are in one’s best interests and those they interact with.

Some sense that there is a God but have a hard time believing in a God of others’ understandings. Why would a loving God send people for unbelief to a place where kept alive forever to burn and suffer for their decisions on earth. Not even imperfect moral beings would torture their enemies forever. Views of God suggested according to the Bible are subject to interpretation, and we can’t ask the writer for clarification of their meaning. Human reasoning is always a part of the understanding process. Many agree what a caring a rational and loving God would be like except for religious extremists. Don’t let others’ views of God keep you from wanting to get closer to God. Think for yourself.

A belief in God can lead to comfort in suffering. Many are able to accept that freedom accounts for the majority of evil and that a controlling, loving parent is an oxymoron. Some in suffering are comforted in the belief that there will be no suffering in life after death and they will be reunited with loved ones. Even if someone didn’t believe in God on earth or couldn’t wrap their heads around a relationship with such a Being, I suspect a loving God gives all a second change after death. Wouldn’t you as a parent?

But, what if there is no God, no afterlife, that it is all a lie? Do you think self-centeredness is justifiable and leads to true happiness and freedom on this earth? God simply encourages and seeks to support leading an unselfish life. What have you lost going the extra mile in relationships by forgiving those who regret their actions except healing. What have you lost leaning on a perfect God’s love except support and comfort. What have you lost by treating others like you want to be treated except regrets. I can’t prove to you that God is real though I am convinced God will reveal themselves to you if you desire such a relationship.

What Is The Only Thing God Is Dogmatic About?

One might think a Creator would at least insist that the created believe in who they were created by. After all, the Creator didn’t see anyone else around in the beginning. A Creator who has in mind the best interest of the created surely insists on some kind of allegiance. But, is God less loving than a parent who understands forcing or insisting their children accept them never leads to true intimacy and happiness. God has always believed in the freedom to choose. A loving God, unlike religious extremists, isn’t capable of insisting on acceptance or be killed.  

God in person was the same way. Jesus when encountering people never insisted that others believe He was the Messiah. He had reasons to not reveal His identify at times for His own protection, but one doesn’t get the impression Jesus thought “accept me or be damned.” Jesus even accepted the misbelief of His closest friends – His disciples. Jesus warned people of their selfish behavior but Jesus didn’t heal people if only they promised continued belief or change.  

Jesus certainly wasn’t dogmatic about certain beliefs claimed to be biblical. God never inspired anyone to write that women shouldn’t have the same freedoms as men. Women didn’t have the same privileges of learning in the synagogue as the men, but that wasn’t God’s doing. God didn’t create a patriarchal relationship with the first couple. That is on man in the generations to come. The Apostle Paul, who wrote most of the New Testament, actually taught mutual dependence and that women shouldn’t demand to teach men in gatherings if men’s egos couldn’t handle it. Peace sometimes is more important than agendas. 

God wasn’t dogmatic about going to church. The religious in biblical times were told in no uncertain terms that their ideas when gathering to supposedly worship the Creator were all screwed up. They acted as if religion was more about being served than serving. The religion leaders assumed laws were to restrict than free. They acted as if God thought on one day of the week one shouldn’t lift a finger to help others in the name of rest. God doesn’t have a litmus test of sacred beliefs that religious types are always claiming. 

God was dogmatic about one thing only and we are the same when it comes to relationships. God only insisted on loving others as yourself which is in the interest of all. Forgiving those who regret their behavior is a path to healing. A self-centered life not only hurts those you love but yourself as well. Entering marriage without a life time commitment isn’t fair to children. But even then Jesus came to assure that our Creator loves and continually forgives so we might not give up doing good and shunning evil.

Does God Accept Those Who Doubt The Resurrection Or Even God’s Existence?

Religious folks communicate to others certain beliefs necessary to be accepted by God or have a relationship with God. We know it doesn’t matter whether you are baptized much less how you are baptized. A loving God wouldn’t love people based on if they have been dunked or sprinkled? Such beliefs may make sense to church folks but others rightly have a difficult time believing such a thing of a loving God. Whether you think God has a litmus test for acceptance impacts discussing God with others.

Does one have to believe in God to be accepted by God? The first chapter of Romans in the Bible has been used to suggest all who don’t believe in God are suppressing what they know to be true. Actually, the writer refers to those who don’t doubt but ignore God and morality to justify their wicked ways. Let’s not accuse those who believe in a God as needing a crutch and those who question the reality of an invisible God of being wicked and not knowing their feelings. If it is a sin to doubt God exists, then Christians sin if they doubt God in troubled times.

Jesus spoke out more against the religious than the non-religious. Religious leaders during biblical times distorted and make religion self-serving rather than self-sacrificing. The Pharisees insisted on certain sacred beliefs which Jesus wanted no part of. I suppose the Pharisees besides liking to be in control assumed God had certain requirements before God would accept you. Jesus wasn’t killed by atheists or those who didn’t go to church. Religious leaders who prayed daily and went to church a lot begged Roman authorities to put Jesus in the grave.

One doesn’t even have to believe in the resurrection to be accepted or have a relationship with God if so desired. Jesus chose twelve men to be His closest friends for support. They saw Jesus perform miracles included raising people from the dead. Jesus even told them He would come back from the grave on the third day after crucifixion. His disciples still weren’t convinced even after seeing Jesus (Mt. 28:17). If Jesus’ disciples, who made personal sacrifices to follow Jesus around, saw Jesus and doubted then people 2000 years later can question whether the resurrection actually took place. I believe the historical evidence is very credible but we each have our own reasons whether to believe in such an event or not.

Some can’t logically wrap their heads around Jesus being both man and God. Exactly how does one do that chromosomally? Isn’t it logically impossible to be God and not God? Some may simply believe Jesus was an extraordinary man who represented God well. I am not convinced there are any sacred beliefs that God demands. God’s only plea is what most of us want for ourselves and loved one – to love others as we want to be love, to go the extra mile in relationships for the possibility of healing.

I am convinced there is Creator of the Universe; others may not be convinced. If such a Power exists, they don’t need my help convincing others there is such a God. We don’t have to convert others to Christianity or to believe everything in the Bible. John Hick suggest in a pluralistic world we might: “Consider the belief that there is an ultimate transcendent Reality which is the source and ground of everything…that the universal presence of this Reality is humanly reflected (‘incarnated’) in the lives of the world’s great spiritual leaders; and that among these we have found Jesus to be our principal revelation of the Real and our principal guide for living (The Metaphor of God incarnate, 187).

Does God “Love And Cherish” More For Richer Or Poorer?

One’s view of God can be impacted by what they have heard God thinks about money. I can quote a lot of bible verses to discuss what God thinks about money, whether God wishes all to be rich or have just enough, but honestly the Bible can be used to prove about anything. The Bible was never meant to be a Book of rules for our personal circumstances but stories about God to reflect on positive changes in our life. What do you think a loving God thinks about money?

Let’s dispel the myth that God wants you rich and if you aren’t, than you don’t have enough faith in God. A person who believes that all their troubles will be swept away through a relationship with God is left with the logical explanation that God has failed them. The Scriptures speak not of God as a genie in a bottle who controls the world but as a Presence in our lives whatever our circumstances. I am not sure what Bible false teachers are smoking who imply lack of faith is the reason for economic hardships.

Let’s dispel the myth that money is the root of all evil. The Bible actually says “for the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil (I Tim. 6:10). The context suggests contentment whatever one’s situation is true freedom. If money truly led to happiness all the rich people we know and read about would be the happiest people alive. How is it evil when one who has a lot of money leads to giving money to those less fortunate in hopes that one day they don’t have to worry about having food on the table or clothes on their back?

I am not convinced God hates or loves money. Lack of money can rob one of their dignity and having too much money can turn a amiable person into an unpleasant individual by thinking of themselves more highly than they should. It is what you do with money that God cares the most about. Maybe God wishes richer those who can handle prosperity to help others and thinks poorer is best for those when money results in problems because of attitudes of never having enough.

I don’t want to make a mountain out of a molehill but Jesus once said to pray to God: “Give us today our daily bread” (Mt. 6:11). Jesus didn’t say God thinks it is wrong for one to have more than they really need for daily sustenance. But, Jesus surely understood not having enough to survive is unbearable. I have no doubt God has a special place in their heart for the poor. It isn’t favoritism when you want all to not have the worries of survival.

For those who are fortunate enough to have more than they need, God does seem to encourage a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7). Our motive for giving matters. Giving can puff us up and make us despicable people. So, for some just keep your money! Even poor people don’t want your money if strings are attached for selfish reasons not in the interest of those you are helping. God will guide you as to whether to give nothing, 10%, 50% or whatever of your abundance.

It isn’t what you have; it is what you do with what you have. There are advantageous to having just enough money. Believe it or not there are burdens when you have a lot of money. Those who live day to day can often have a greater impact in helping others because they walk in that person’s shoes. Those who suffer often get the most help from others who have suffered their same situation. Those who have lots of money can seek to make changes where people don’t have to spend their time worrying about how to keep food on the table or clothes on their back.

Can We Only Think Of Spirituality in God-Terms And Why It Matters?

We have a problem. Many would agree spirituality is important as defined below, but such conversations are rare or taboo. One reason I think people are less inclined to discuss spiritual issues openly is because God-folks don’t have conversations without agendas and their view of the God of the Bible is standoffish and may not be what God is really like. I am convinced becoming more spiritual brings peace of mind and is essential for a better world.

Most religious leaders define spirituality as loving others like you want to be loved. Christians may be even surprised this was Jesus’ message along with how God could help us in such a journey. Also, in a broken world we must consider how to love others who have hurt us. Relationships may never heal if we never go the extra mile. Such a definition can allow people to encourage one another in this endeavor. Some seek to justify their self-centeredness or immorality, but most friends would agree with the importance of living a more selfless life.

Many who have grown up in the church will not agree with my definition of spirituality, but I have grown weary of barriers that prevent such discussions. I don’t wish to discourage anyone in their beliefs about God, but more may be open to living a more focused, spiritual life without all the baggage added. Places of worship that aren’t extreme in their beliefs tend to have a positive influence on those who attend, but one doesn’t always notice great differences in relationships such as marriage of those who do and don’t attend a formal setting for worship.

I am convinced the following are important changes we must make in our thinking if we are to encourage others to become more spiritual. The main challenge is to not necessarily define spirituality in “God” terms and certainly not in “God of the Bible” terms. Often, we never get to “so how should we live” because of debates about such beliefs. It is true actions can flow from beliefs but I don’t believe there are any excuses for lack of spirituality or selfishness. If there is a Creator, such a Creator is capable of making themselves known to individuals. If you can’t buy into the whole Jesus and Bible thing, don’t throw Jesus’ message out as well. 

• It is suspect that the Christian God insists on belief of the God of the Bible when the majority of people who have been born and died on this earth had no written knowledge of such a God. Suggesting a loving God insists one can only come to God through Jesus is to ignore the realities of our world. The truth is one’s religion, or rebellion against a certain religion, is based on the family born into whether be Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, etc.
• It is suspect that a loving God judges people based on decisions and beliefs in the short time here on earth. Do we really think a thief is going to enter Paradise but not others with lesser sins simply because they weren’t next to Jesus hanging on Cross right before their last breathe? If it is a sin to doubt God exists, then Christians sin if they doubt God in troubled times. One may be able to believe either in a God, a wiser Reality greater than them, or that living less self-centered lives than more self-centered lives is the higher priority.
• Spiritual minded people who wish to encourage others in their spirituality must get out of the conversion business. People don’t need to be converted to a certain religion or set of beliefs; people need to be encouraged to have conversations how to love in their relationships. If God truly exist God can draw anyone to themselves if so desired. Jesus’ only agenda was to convince people to listen to their heart. God-folks especially must be open to considering other opinions gracefully, so one can work out their own convictions. It is manipulative when spiritual folks engage in relationships other than for friendship or desires to help one how they wished to be helped.
• It may surprise many of the Christian faith that when Jesus was asked how to obtain eternal life, He simply said to love God and love others as yourself (Lk.10:25-27). Jesus didn’t attach certain sacred beliefs as clear in His interactions with individuals, and Jesus didn’t have in mind perfection or God is going to be mighty lonely. Jesus didn’t insist the woman caught in adultery believe He was God but simply to do what she knew was right in her heart and leave her life of sin (Jn. 8:1-11). Jesus wasn’t passing out get-out-of-hell-free cards when quoted: “For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matt. 7:13-14). Jesus was only warning that selfishness leads to regret and destruction. The narrower path – loving others as we wish to be loved – leads to true freedom.
• Jesus main message was to encourage unselfishness for our own best interest, but Jesus too wanted us to know about God. Jesus including loving God when asked about eternal life because Jesus believed that loving God is being empowered to love others to the fullest. Jesus wanted others to know their Creator will never give up loving us and forgiving us in doing good and shunning evil. Jesus believed there was nothing in one’s past that God could not love and forgive us. Jesus believed a relationship with God helped one to love others while also making amends with others when needed.
• The manuscript reliability of all ancient literature is far less than the Old and New Testament, but we don’t question Julius Caesar’s recorded exploits in the Gallic Wars. The Bible though was never meant to be a Book of rules but stories about God to reflect on what God is really like. Jesus when leaving this earth didn’t promise to leave us with a Bible but His Spirit so we might be able to discern evil from good (Jn. 14:16). God never intended a Book to replace our relationship with God. The Bible’s main message is crystal clear, but interpretations of writings thousands of years ago are fallible and we can’t ask the writer for clarification.
• Spirituality should not be confused with debatable views of God or being religious and attending religious services. Being spiritual isn’t being Catholic, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Mormon, etc. Find people who encourage one another in striving continually to love others as well as going the extra mile in relationships. Change only happens sometimes when spiritual minded folks take the first step. Look for people who can help in handling personal disappointments along your journey.

Do you agree that the world needs a lot more people who discuss and become more spiritual by loving others as they want to be loved? Make being spiritual a constant endeavor and know how to get back on track when discouraged. My view of God’s love for me does this for me. Identify any problems, such as certain views of God that may be erroneous, in making spirituality more of a focus in your life. Honestly, I don’t think there are any legitimate excuses for being self-centered. I am convinced becoming more spiritual bring peace of mind and is essential for a better world.

Why Isn’t God More Obvious And Less Invisible?

If God believes trusting in God is in our best interest, why doesn’t God sign each sunset in the bottom right corner? It seems God could be a lot more obvious by intervening more than God seems to. I will never been satisfied with explanations that suggest God is to dignified to have to show or explain themselves. I would die to be asked by my children to make my beliefs clearer. How much more a perfect, loving God! I have a hard time believing a loving God cares more about their reputation than helping us to rely on our Creator.

It is more difficult for God than one may think. Damn if God does; damn if God doesn’t. One could view God signing each sunset as being egotistical. Since this is not a loving behavior, one could suggest God really doesn’t exist. But, I don’t believe all are being rebellious who hesitate to believe in a God or can’t wrap their head around having a relationship with an invisible God. Spiritual rebellion is denying the possibility of a God so to justify living a self-centered life.

Keep in mind God did show up in history in very tangible ways. God dropped manna from the sky to help a nation survive in the wilderness and separated the Red Sea to escape one’s enemy, but people still did not believe or at least put their total trust in God. God even came in person but Jesus’ miracles did not obtain the results some may suggest if God would stop hiding.

God wanted us to come to them on our own terms rather than out of feelings of obligation or awe. God wanted it to be all about us and not God. Loving parents desire their children freely reciprocate their love as opposed to feeling manipulated. Do the below seem reasonable as to why a loving God may be less obvious?

• God may not be able to intervene in evil and suffering because true love must never be dictatorial. We ask why God didn’t take Hitler out of this world, but Hitler was enabled and chosen by many who could have stopped him. God’s constant interference and presence may prevent a superior world from emerging as a result of the moral development and improvement of free creatures. Interference can prevent growth and self-satisfaction resulting from making wise, independent choices. God instead can at least provide a life after death with God for those who desire it.
• God may know that a majority of people will reject God now if more “in your face” as opposed to a time in the future under different circumstances. Timing in relationships is crucial. People may also come to believe in God for the wrong reasons in “shock and awe” times which are not conducive for a long-lasting relationship. Also, God revealing themselves in perceived very real ways isn’t always comforting. Many are vulnerable to extreme guilt and discouragement when seemingly having fewer excuses for failing. God always watches out for the most vulnerable, so those of us who can readily except forgiveness might show more compassion.

Faith may be unavoidable in trusting God knows the right balance. Being in the presence of others we offend isn’t always initially conducive for lasting change. God wanted us to come to God on our own terms rather than out of feelings of obligation or awe. God wanted it to be all about us and not God. Uncontrolling, loving parents always desire their children freely reciprocate their love as opposed to feeling manipulated, even if it can be proven a mutual relationship is in their best interest.

Why Aren’t People More Spiritually Focused?

I don’t think there is a definitive answer to the question posed but I can suggest some possible reasons why people are less inclined to discuss their spirituality as they might their physical health. Most religious leaders define spirituality as loving others like you want to be loved. Jesus, who sparked Christianity, made this His central message. The majority of people believe in a God and the value of loving their neighbor like they want to be loved. Few friends, whether they believe in a Creator or not, defend self-centered living that violates the rights of others.

The first challenge in getting more to think about and discuss their spirituality is not insisting on defining spirituality based on certain beliefs about God or a God. Often, we never get to “so how should we live” because of debates about beliefs. It is true actions flow from beliefs but beliefs should not excuse lack of spirituality or selfishness. If there is a Creator, such a Creator is capable of making themselves known to individuals. It is easier for some to believe in an invisible God than others. It is suspect that the Christian God insists on belief of the God of the Bible when the majority of people born had no written knowledge of such a God.

Spiritual minded people must avoid hidden agendas such as converting others to their religion or beliefs. People don’t need to be converted; people need to be encouraged to have conversations how to love in their relationships. Again, God if they exist can draw anyone to themselves if so desired. People will let you know if they are interested in what inspires you. Jesus’ only agenda was to convince people to listen to their heart. God-folks especially must be open to considering other opinions gracefully, so one can work out their own convictions. People feel manipulated rather than loved when spiritual folks engage other than for friendship or desires to help one how they wished to be helped.

People may be less spiritually inclined because they have heard the God of the Bible is gender bias or homophobic. God never approved of patriarchalism. God never approved of women being dependent on men in a way men shouldn’t be dependent on women. The Bible doesn’t speak about same sex relationships that are exclusively committed to loving one another. The Bible does speak to different sex couples who take the marriage commitment lightly and think partners can be traded in for supposed better versions. Please don’t use others’ view of God as an excuse to not determine who you think God really is. Views of God of the Bible are subject to interpretation and the writers aren’t available for further clarification.

Do not confuse being spiritual as being the same as religious. Religion has been high jacked and has become more about being served than serving. Do not associate spirituality with certain debatable view of God and certainly not with going to religious services. Being spiritual isn’t being Catholic, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Mormon, etc. Find people who encourage one another in striving continually to love others as well as going the extra mile in relationships. Change only happens sometimes when spiritual minded folks take the first step. Look for people who can help in handling personal disappointments along your journey.

Do you agree that the world needs a lot more people who discuss and become more spiritual by loving others as they want to be loved? Make being spiritual a constant endeavor and know how to get back on track when discouraged. My view of God’s love for me does this for me. Identify any problems, such as certain views of God that may be erroneous, in making spirituality more of a focus in your life. Honestly, I don’t think there are any legitimate excuses for being self-centered. I am convinced becoming more spiritual bring peace of mind and is essential for a better world.