Response to Arg:
I think using “for lack of a better reason” was the wrong terminology. I feel the main point that I was trying to convey was that in light of all the other options out there, faith in God was the better reason to choose. Also the fact that science sometimes tries to justify things that may be as farfetched as others. God seems to provide the same if not more reasoning and evidence then everything else. It is this evidence that increases my ability to believe and commune with God on a daily basis. This has also lead me to the other revelation that God is not a church building or a priest. He is His own individual who wanted these things to spread his word and bring people to Him but what they have turned into are things that distract or detract individuals from having a one on one relationship with God void of church and others. Although these things can be beneficial and provide a starting point for one’s journey in the Lord. It is these things like science which create or change the true purpose of the research or relationship with God.
I agree with your statement about science and measuring or the void of caring due to science. It is like I have stated before that although society today and technology have opened the door to communicating with more people with more frequency it is taking that personal relationship out of things. An example I would provide is a mother and daughter who are at odds with each other cannot have a face to face conversation without argument because they no longer know how to communicate. But can text each other while sitting in the same room without any problems. This proves that we have forgotten how to be personable. Jesus taught us that God is love and the best way to God is through showing that loving nature. This also keeps us from getting close to God because we have forgotten how to get back to the basics and communicate on a personal level with God. God and spirituality cannot be achieved through anything but a personal communicative relationship. If I may make a bold statement because I was there a few weeks ago that this is where everyone needs to move towards. Step out from behind your technology, science and buildings (i.e. Church) and start communing with people and God more importantly on a personal level.
But unlike philosophy that does not provide final answers God does and is willing if one would just stop and be quiet to listen to what He has to say to you. This can only occur through relationship and increased communication.
What were these obstacles and what spiritual issues were you struggling with? Out of curiosity.
I agree that spiritual distress will prevent one from fulfilling the worldly roles that they have. This furthers the point that one must become closer to and in tune with God in order to be better at the worldly roles that we fill. For God gave us those roles for a reason. If we communicate and are willing to listen He will show us how to be better at these roles.
Finding that balance is so much fun. (Ha-ha) The nice thing is that we can help each other and others reach this point. Just remember God is not made to fit in a box and when one tries, God always finds a way to prove you wrong. Blatantly proven when God won me over like you stated Mr. J in your last paragraph before your conclusion.
Overall, God is declaring “aren’t I enough for you.”
Let’s see where this takes us. Despite the pile you thought you laid out there well done!