A scientific analysis

[Wren57]

Steve, correct me if I am wrong, but the way I understand what you've written is that you don't believe in a God because he hasn't presented himself to you. This is the whole issue with faith. Sure it would be easy to believe in God if he walked up to you one day on the street, or visited you in your bedroom while you were asleep, or somehow, as you put it, forced you to believe. But, if we as humans were forced to believe, would our worship of God really matter? Thats almost like being told to say "thank you" after recieving a gift; it loses all meaning if you are forced into it. It is my strong, firm belief that people have a choice in everything regarding the way they live their lives. It is your choices that define your character, and your character that defines you as traditionally "good" or "evil". To choose to have faith and believe in God (whatever that means to you), is a CHOICE; that is what is so great. Freedom is great. God allows humans freedom, even from him. Now, you may rebut that God doesn't allow freedom because he punishes for disobedience, but it is widely accepted that God will forgive everyone who truly seeks forgiveness, even if they have been disobedient. Do you or I know the complete truth about everything in the universe and beyond? No, but I have my beliefs, and they guide me through my life. I live a happy life and do my best to do good deeds every day, trying to be a positive in other people's lives. After all, what is more important in life than your effect on other people? I don't go to church, but carry out my faith through good works.

Cliffs notes;
1. Steve doesn't believe in God because he hasn't presented himself to Steve (materialistic viewpoint)
2. God has given humans ultimate freedom
3. Steve; what purpose would be served by God making us worship him?
4. I believe in faith through good works