Off Course?

I read a blog once that said, “Atheism that consists in vacuous arguments afloat on oceans of historical ignorance, made turbulent by storms of strident self-righteousness, is as contemptible as any other form of dreary fundamentalism.” Along these same lines, a friend of mine once said that fundamentalism is pretty much tied to Christianity and the Bible, and its arguments are not interesting unless these facts can be proven. Self-righteous atheists who make a lot of noise with empty arguments that are not supported by historical evidence aren’t any stronger than those of a Believer unless conversations, life-style, and beliefs are backed up by the Bible. [pullquote4 align=”right” style=”width:300px;”]Transformation
Fragrant glory does impart
Majestic from the sky.
Soothing weary tired hearts,
Allowing them to fly.
Saturated with the spirit’s life
Purging self of inner strife.
Welcome peace, so fresh and new,
Heaven’s Manna, Morning’s Dew.
Radiance of heaven, God’s dear Son
Transforming cross, the work is done.
Splendor and grandeur, victory won,
Triumphant praise, new life begun.
Heavenly chorus, anthems ring
Born in a manger, hope He brings.
Resounding words, a mighty cheer,
Repent, rejoice; He’s almost here.[/pullquote4]It is true that taking advantage of accurate Bible teaching is an important part of the believer’s spiritual growth. Indeed, that is the whole point of living a life of growing in Christ, staying free from the sting of sin and living a life of joy and peace in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Having once been an atheist and now having lived for Christ for over 36 years, I have to say that I am much happier now and not simply because I have studied the Bible but because I have direction and purpose in my life. The historical Jesus has become real and relevant to me. As a non-believer I was unhappy and placed my faith in man but in too many instances my fellow man let me down. Jesus has never done that. He has brought hope into my life – a real, genuine and lasting hope that has sustained me through troubling times. The Biblical definition of hope is “confident expectation”. This hope provides faith and assurance when confronting the unknown. Hope springs from the faith that is found in the heart of followers of Christ. Along with faith and love, hope is an enduring virtue of the Christian life (1 Corinthians 13:13).

We are living in the most tumultuous of times yet we know that the hope that Christ provides will produce the sought after joy and peace we so desire. Even if by definition hope refers to the future, the Bible is rooted in the present. Have you lost hope? Direction? Purpose? Hope and strength can be found in prayer and belief in Christ! Hope? He has more than you could ever hope for! Direction? He has that too! Put your faith in the Lord and expect great things.

Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord (Psa. 31:24).

My dream is of a time and place when worshiping Christ will be recognized as the true path to hope for our nation and the world.