Conversations About Things That Matter To God

By Raymond Cooper


Most cultures have a belief in one or more supreme beings. It's only in modern times that societies are content to let blind chance take the credit for both past and future. Of course, anyone having conversations about things that matter to God will have accepted some sort of diety, even if it turns out to be themselves. The focus of the debate will differ, depending on how objective the participants are.

Many people create their own definition of God. Perhaps this is inevitable, since it's almost impossible for anyone to be totally objective. However, often this is a conscious choice, made to fit what they feel they need from a supreme being and what they cannot accept from ancient teachings.

Even those who accept much of a doctrine, say Christianity, may reject the rest. Take the matter of hell as a place of punishment when a proscribed code of conduct is broken. There are many who like the God of love portrayed in the Bible, but cannot accept that such a one could condemn created beings to torment. They deny the existence of hell, which is mentioned in the Bible more often than heaven. This lessens the necessity for a savior and a sacrifice and may also dilute the difference between right and wrong.

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.

Many things support this kind of reliance on scripture, including archaeological discoveries and miracles. However, there are more skeptics than believers in the world. This to some seems tragic but to others only logical.

Two or more are needed for a conversation, and they have to share some ideas. A person who embraces the mystic power of crystals probably won't be interested as much in what matters to the Lord as in what matters to them, what will enhance their life. It will be easier for two believers to talk about spiritual things, since they will agree on many basic concepts.

For those who take the Bible as a reliable guide, helping the poor is a priority. Discussions about that can lead to the formation of plans, agencies, or crusades to accomplish this goal. Evangelists hope to win converts, so their discourse is aimed at explaining the relationship between the Lord and man. Leading a godly life is a topic of endless interest to anyone who wants to truly imitate Christ. Talk radio is a wonderful resource for those who are isolated.

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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