Turning Away From the Living God ∙∙
Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. – Hebrews 3:12
2 Peter 3:17 I am warning you ahead of time, dear friends. Be on guard so that you will not be carried away by the errors of these wicked people and lose your own secure footing.
The Resilient Belief in God Among Americans
In today’s world, faith in the biblical God and commitment to the Bible’s teachings have regrettably declined. Many people seem to be distancing themselves from traditional religious beliefs. Still, a large portion of the American population continues to hold on to a conventional faith, as shown in Pamela Danziger’s research.
Belief in the Biblical God or a Higher Power
Danziger cites a Pew Poll conducted in late 2021, which surveyed about 6500 American adults. The results show that most Americans still believe in the Biblical God, Heaven, and Hell, but they reject the idea that human suffering is caused by divine intervention.
Specifically, 58% of Americans identify their God as the one described in the Bible. Another 32% believe in some form of god or spiritual force, though not necessarily the God of the Bible. Altogether, nearly 9 out of 10 Americans believe in a higher power actively working in the world.
Beliefs About Heaven, Hell, and Free Will
When it comes to specific beliefs, 73% of American adults believe in Heaven, while 62% believe in Hell. Interestingly, 80% of Americans attribute worldly suffering to human actions rather than God. This aligns with the belief held by nearly 9 out of 10 Americans that “human beings are free to act in ways that go against the plans of God or a higher power.”
God’s Plan and the Role of Suffering
A majority of Americans, 68%, believe that all events occur for a reason, with 56% attributing these reasons to God’s greater plan. Despite the challenges of worldly suffering, only 14% of Americans allow such experiences to weaken their faith in God. Additionally, 44% believe that Satan is mainly responsible for the suffering in the world.
Compassion and Charitable Actions
In the face of tragedy, 62% of Americans express empathy for those affected, and 40% feel compelled to offer help. This aligns with the United States’ reputation as the most charitable nation in the world.
Prayer and Divine Attention
Not only do Americans believe in God, but they also trust in His attentiveness and care. Approximately 67% of Americans believe they will receive a definite answer to prayer, and 46% report that they have had their prayers answered. They have a strong belief in God’s active role in their lives.
Belief in a Higher Power’s Governance
Almost all American adults, 91%, believe that a higher power controls uncontrollable parts of life. This view is also backed by 83% of Americans, who agree that science or natural causes can’t fully explain the complexities of our world.
In summary, most Americans believe in God, whether it’s the Judeo-Christian God or another higher power. Why is this the case? One reason is that the existence of God provides a logical and reasonable explanation for how the universe came into being.
REFLECT & PRAY
The Scriptures are a gift from the Father, designed to facilitate our spiritual growth and maturity. They reveal the truth about God, the world, and ourselves, while equipping us to serve the Lord Jesus Christ effectively. David declared, Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
Father, thank You for the steadfast foundation You have given to all of the children of the King through Your Word.
INSIGHT
God’s Sovereignty Over World Events
The Father is never caught off guard by world events. He knows everything that is going to happen and often gives prophecies to prepare and warn us of what is to come.
2 Timothy 3:1-5: “You should know this, Timothy: in the last days, there will be very difficult times. People will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God. They will be disobedient to their parents and ungrateful, considering nothing sacred. They will lack love and forgiveness; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, act recklessly, be filled with pride, and love pleasure more than God. They will appear religious but will reject the power that could lead them to true godliness.”
The Apostle Paul clearly describes the moral and spiritual decline that will mark the last days. His words offer a chilling view of humanity’s self-centeredness, pride, and rejection of God. Yet, Paul’s instructions to Timothy remain just as relevant today as they were 2,000 years ago.
Instructions for Faithful Living
After highlighting the challenges of the last days, Paul provides Timothy with clear guidance on staying strong in faith. These instructions serve as a timeless blueprint for the children of the King navigating a fallen world.
2 Timothy 3:10-17: “Timothy, you know well what I teach, how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You are aware of my faith, patience, love, and endurance. You know about the persecution and suffering I have faced, especially in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra, but the Lord has rescued me from all of it.”
“Indeed, everyone who desires to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will encounter persecution. Meanwhile, evil people and impostors will thrive; they will deceive others and be deceived themselves.”
“However, you must remain faithful to the teachings you have received. You know they are true because you can trust those who taught you. You have been educated in the holy Scriptures since childhood, and they have equipped you with the wisdom needed to embrace the salvation that comes through faith in Christ Jesus.”
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”
The Foundation of Faith: The Scriptures
God the Father has provided the foundation of our faith in the Scriptures. Timothy, raised by his Jewish mother, was deeply connected to the sacred writings of the Old Testament as seen in 2 Timothy 3:15: “You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus.”
Throughout history, the Scriptures have served as a guide for those seeking God. Ignoring the Word of God is unwise because it is essential for understanding truth and navigating life’s challenges. Careful study and application of Scripture are necessary for spiritual growth and wisdom.
The Transformative Power of God’s Word
The Word of God has the power to transform lives. Barclay shares a powerful story from Brazil. A man named Antonio bought a New Testament with the intention of burning it. When he tried to set it on fire, the pages opened to the Sermon on the Mount. Curious, he started reading and, by morning, said, “I believe.” This story illustrates the profound impact that Scripture can have on the human heart.
The Bible is not merely a collection of writings; it is the inspired Word of God. 2 Peter 1:20-21 states, “Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God.”
The Holy Spirit guided the authors of Scripture, allowing them to maintain their unique styles and contexts while ensuring that the divine message was clearly communicated.
The Profitability of Scripture
The Scriptures are described as “profitable” in 2 Timothy 3:16. This word is translated from the Greek word ophelimos, meaning “useful, beneficial, helpful, or advantageous.” When read, understood, and put into practice, the Word of God empowers children of the King to thrive in a fallen world. It offers wisdom, guidance, and encouragement, equipping them to face life’s challenges with assurance and optimism.
Preparing for Troubling Times
The World is not getting better. It is on a collision course with the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. As Paul warned, evil will flourish, and persecution will come to those who live godly lives. Still, we can find strength and guidance in the Scriptures to help us face these challenges with faith and perseverance.
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© Dr. H 2025
Dr H Reflections 