Return to the Main Menu
Previous Devotional
Next Devotional
If you are attacked because you believe what God says to you through Scripture, here are some things to remember:
- Stay Calm and Professional
- Why: Emotional responses can make you appear defensive or less credible.
- How: Take a deep breath and maintain a tone of reason and respect, even when the criticism is harsh. Respond to the argument, not the emotion behind it.
- Refocus on Evidence and Logic
- Why: Grounding your argument in evidence makes it harder for others to dismiss you as emotional or unscientific. Remember that logic must be based on truth or it is unsound. Point out that the human mind can’t reason to truth. Typically, godless thinkers try to find some argument against this fact, but there is no rational argument against it. At a certain point, they are just making up stuff and calling the made-up stuff true. When they are talking about “evidence,” they are generally talking about a certain interpretation of an observation. That interpretation is based on certain unprovable assumptions, so their claim of “evidence” is actually a claim that their unprovable assumptions are true. There is nothing irrational about divine revelation. God speaks through the Bible and every means of divine revelation mentioned in the Bible. In fact, the only certain way to know the Bible is God’s word without error is the fact that the Holy Spirit testifies to its reliability whenever you ask God about it.
- How: Emphasize the scientific basis or logical inconsistencies in the axioms being questioned. For example:
“I’m simply asking whether these assumptions can stand up to the same level of scrutiny applied to other scientific theories.”
- Point Out the Fallacy
- Why: Exposing flaws in the argument of your opponent can undermine baseless attacks.
- How: If you’re being attacked for dogmatism, calmly point out the projection or double standard without being accusatory.
“It’s ironic that those who value open inquiry would label dissent as anti-science instead of engaging with the evidence. Can you provide evidence that God doesn’t act on the material world?”
- Ask Thoughtful Questions
- Why: Shifting the burden of proof forces others to reflect on their assumptions.
- How: Politely ask questions like:
- “What is the evidence supporting the claim that these axioms must not be questioned?”
- “If science is about testing assumptions, why shouldn’t these be tested too?”
- Find Allies
- Why: Being part of a supportive community can strengthen your position and credibility.
- How: Connect with others who share your concerns or who value intellectual diversity, whether within scientific circles, faith-based groups, or interdisciplinary discussions.
- Disarm with Humility
- Why: Acknowledging uncertainties shows you’re committed to truth, not an agenda.
- How: You can say:
“I’m open to revising my perspective as new evidence emerges. My goal is to pursue truth, wherever that leads. In fact, God is constantly correcting me, so I’m in a constant condition of transformation.”
- Expose the Circular Reasoning
- Why: Revealing the self-reinforcing logic of their claims can be a powerful counter.
- How: Show how their argument depends on assuming the very thing in question.
“If the rules of science assume God cannot be involved, how can we honestly evaluate evidence that might suggest otherwise?”
- Document and Respond Publicly
- Why: A written or public response ensures your argument is clear and accessible.
- How: If appropriate, publish articles, blog posts, or social media updates where you clearly explain your position and counter the attacks. Ensure your tone is respectful and constructive.
- Highlight the Bigger Picture
- Why: Reminding others of the core principles of science (or faith) reframes the conversation.
- How: Say something like:
“Science is about following the evidence wherever it leads. Shouldn’t we embrace that spirit, even when it challenges deeply held assumptions?”
- Trust in God’s Guidance
- Why: As a person of faith, leaning on prayer and discernment ensures your response aligns with God’s will.
How: Pray for wisdom, grace, and the ability to respond with love, even in the face of hostility. Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit. Seek to speak only the words He speaks through you by His authority and power. Let His glory and essence in you flow out in all the fruit of the Spirit beginning with love.
Ask God to answer these questions.
- What does it mean to stay calm and professional?
- Why is it important for you to use evidence and logic when talking to someone?
- What is a fallacy?
- Why should you ask thoughtful questions when talking to someone?
- How do you find people who agree with you?
Bonus questions:
- What does it mean for you to disarm with humility?
- What is circular reasoning?
- Why should you write or talk about what you believe publicly?
- What is the bigger picture in science or faith?
- How do you trust in God’s guidance when talking to others?
SEEKING GOD
audio recording for reflection: |
- Pray for the Lord to protect you and keep you in His presence and His presence only.
- Direct your mind toward the Lord only.
- Ask God what He want’s to talk about.
- You can ask God any questions. In all of this, be led by the Holy Spirit. God promises that He will answer you if you ask Him.
- Do not edit or change what God says even if you don’t understand it.
- Reject the lies and receive the truth.
- Take notes.
- Transfer your notes to your journal without editing what God said to you.
Keep in mind that God doesn’t want you to ever disconnect from Him. He wants to flow through you constantly in knowledge, wisdom, and love.