Q. Why does God not more obviously reveal himself to mankind? Why is it that he wants us to search for him? It is clear that God has put that desire into our hearts, however, how does one who is seeking know they have found the right God?

(Submitted by: D. M.)

A. Why does God not more obviously reveal himself to mankind?

The Bible says that "what can be known about God" should be clear to us by studying His creation. The clockwork mechanism of the universe, the laws of physics, human anatomy and the physical sciences themselves present the evidence of a Creator, so much so that - if we fail to discern the "eternal power and divine nature of God" by studying His creation - we are without excuse.

" The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse." (Romans 1:18-20, NIV)

I discovered for myself the existence of God philosophically and logically by trying to find the answer to the repeated question, "Where did that come from?" Eventually, even considering the possibility of a "Big Bang" and other scientific theories concerning the universe, I came to the point where the only answer is either God or some other term designating a creator - a "prime cause". Anyone who believes this world, mankind and the universe came into being through unguided evolution has gone through a bigger leap of faith than an uneducated faith in God. To me, the necessity of a Creator could not be more "obvious".

Why is it that he wants us to search? As to why He does not come to each of us personally and introduce Himself (being a little facetious), one only has to understand human nature. That which comes to us cheaply and without effort is without value to us over the long term.

Once one establishes the existence of a Creator, the next step is to discern the meaning and purpose of our individual lives and to see how/if they relate to that Creator. I compile years of studying the Bible, other religions and mankind in that search in the following answer: Our purpose in life is to become what God made us capable of becoming. Part of that "becoming" involves the search for God and meaning in life.

It is clear that God has put that desire into our hearts, however, how does one who is seeking know they have found the right God?

The preface to your question indicates a level of deep thought and understanding on your part, i.e., understanding that "God has put the desire to search (for Him) into our hearts." Your question shows that you are on the track to finding Him for, indeed, there are many "gods" available for us to find. Our "God" is the being, or idea, or desire that occupies the uttermost respect and love in our minds. For some, it is sex, or money or power or another human being or many other things.

Here's where my search led me: The Common Flaw in Religions From Zoroastrianism to Hinduism to Tao to Buddhism to Islam to most of "Christianity" today, in one fashion or another - from reincarnation (having other chances to get it right) to "just believing on Jesus and letting Him do it all for you" - these religions give human beings a philosophical excuse for the lack of self-responsibility. It is not necessary to strive to achieve one's potential to be "saved" or to reach Nirvana. There is an element of "magic" that is introduced that "changes" everything; human beings are said to be powerless to overcome the "call"; it is completely beyond the control of the individual. One can become part of a group that believes these fantasies and pretend to be in on the magic. Such things lead to philosophical and mental stagnation and hypocrisy.

Finding Answers Only

One religion gives human beings a rigid code of perfection against which a person continually measures himself. Only one religion provides real answers all the major philosophic questions including "what is the purpose of man?" and "to where does all this lead?" That religion is clearly taught in the pages of the Bible if a person can read it with a truly open mind and heart; if they are willing to give up all preconceptions. It is not easy, but any person can do it. Finding the answers to the basic questions of life along with the strongest motivation possible to strive to reach your potential is the immediate reward for the search.

I'm sure an honest search on your part will lead you to the true God for He is looking for you to find Him and will tell you when you find Him, if you are listening for that message. Trust in Him and ask Him to help you find Him. He will.

Answer Given By: Clay Willis