Having Conversations About Things That Matter To God

By Raymond Cooper


The nature of God is a vast topic. Most cultures have a belief system in otherworldly beings that are involved in human existence. Anyone engaging in conversations about things that matter to God will probably not share the modern philosophy that everything we see and are ourselves is a product of chance. For Christians, a discussion would have to build on a definition of the nature of the Lord, a consensus on how and if we can know it, and what is important to Him.

Someone who feels that divinity is in everything will have to look inside for revelation. Their belief will depend on feelings about what is right and wrong, or true or false. Since people are invariably subjective to a degree, this probably happens anyway. However, many people arrive at a faith that comes partly from ancient sacred writings and partly from their own experience. This is called New Age philosophy and may incorporate almost anything.

A good example of this is the idea that there is a code of conduct and failure to comply result in punishment in some sort of hell. Many people like the idea of a loving spirit and can't accept that such a one could condemn its own creation to eternal torment. They therefore accept the love but deny the judgement. This in essence also denies the standards of right and wrong, or at least finds mitigating circumstances for wrongdoing.

The other way for Christians is to let God speak for Himself. By taking the Bible as a revelation, believers can seek to understand the Lord and find out what is important to Him. The Bible contains both commandments and promises. Millions find security and comfort in a diety who does not depend on man's input. They like knowing there is absolute truth and a way to grasp it.

The bible as truth has many supporters who cite archaeological discoveries or miracles as evidence. Many are skeptical that God would speak through human authors. Those who believe are as convinced as those who do not.

It is necessary to have two or more participants for true conversation. A certain amount of common ground is also needed. It is easier for two Christians to talk about things which are spiritually significant than it would be for a Christian and a New Age devotee who's seeking guidance and help in crystals.

Some enjoy studying the Bible in an effort to understand God and his expressed will. They are comfortable with helping the poor, since this is a recurring commandment. Discussions of how best to implement this and other obligations are both enjoyable and productive. Those with no one to talk to can listen to Christian talk radio and call in if they want to participate more deeply.

The book of Ephesians is just one part of the bible which encourages believers to speak of godly things. Loose talk is to be avoided, as is cursing and evil speech. Instead, they are to speak of what is pure and good. They are directed to build up the body, which is the congregation of the followers of Christ.




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