It seems incredibly close-minded, even arrogant, to believe that there is truth and that I know what it is. People – and I’m one of those people – get furious with such philosophical arrogance, and can hardly believe that individuals dare to speak of their own opinionated knowledge so highly. Yet, when it comes to knowing and believing in one true God, I willingly take such a stand, myself. And not because I think I’m so great (I really don’t), but because of who I am through Jesus.
Honestly, this has not been easy for me to reconcile... As I said, on the one hand, I am a person who quite easily disrespects people who take these very “I know the truth, and the truth is what I believe” stances. These stands are often of a political nature, and usually polarize. I much prefer collaboration, often believing the most workable – and long-term, the most palatable – answer is somewhere in the middle. (And not that one should alter what they believe is the absolute best, but one should be willing to work toward reasonable compromises, recognizing there are respectful views, and people, on most sides of most issues.)
Yet, if you asked me if there is one true God and not “many gods, all of whom are likely worthy belief choices” I would answer, “No, I believe there is one, true God, and this is the God I know and trust.” Now, granted, I would say it kindly, not at all disrespecting another’s free choice to disagree, and to worship any god she or he chooses. Nevertheless, I believe I have the truth in this matter, and with good reason…
What I call my “good reason,” others may say is “completely circumstantial.” And, in a way, they would be absolutely right. Yet, that’s exactly what I implore is good reason to investigate my God as the true God: the circumstance of who He is and what He has done in my life. His influence in me cannot be denied, or argued with, if you get to know me, and see what that influence has been.
Should we not compare gods by the lives of their true believers? Not by simply looking at those who attend services, or visit temples or go through rituals, but the actual lives – before and after – of those who place their trust in these gods. Not, “Are they perfect?” (Who is?) But, “What comes out of their hearts?” And, “Is the power of their God’s spirit in their daily lives?”
I’m a witness to the truth that it is possible to have a current, active relationship with God, through Jesus Christ. And that witness, flawed and imperfect as it is, is still a powerful reason to believe. This not because of who I am...or what I have done...because frankly, on my own – without His Spirit working in me – my life takes a disgusting turn. But when I allow Him to reign in me, He does, and my life becomes a convincing witness of the reason to believe.
