“There Is No God”

For the wicked boast of the desires of their heart, those greedy for gain curse and renounce the LORD. In the pride of their countenance the wicked say, “God will not seek it out”; all their thoughts are, “There is no God.”

Psalm 10:3-4

Throughout Britain these days, buses are displaying signs paid for by donations to the British Humanist Association. The signs read: “There’s probably no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life.” Not to be outdone, America had its own anti-God display recently. Last December in Olympia, Washington, an atheist group posted a sign next to a privately sponsored nativity scene. The sign read: “At this season of the Winter Solstice may reason prevail. There are no gods, no devils, no angels, no heaven or hell. There is only our natural world. Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds.”

Though the forms of propaganda might be new, the enthusiasm of atheism is not. Ages ago, the Psalmist bemoaned the pride of the wicked, who boasted of their selfish desires and who were convinced that “There is no God.” Therefore, when we see the boldness of today’s atheists, we mustn’t lose heart. Rather, we must be confident in our faith, clear in our communication, and conscientious in our actions. For, not only is the atheist creed false, but it also lacks the power to change lives. Thus, we have the chance to persuade people of the truth of the Gospel, both through our words and especially through our lives.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: Are you living in such a way that people around you can see God’s presence in your life? What could you do this next week to live in a way that reflected the reality of God?

PRAYER: Dear Lord, yes, there’s nothing new under the sun. Those who deny you continue to proclaim their “truth” and delight in their freedom to live without your guidance.

Today I pray for those who are steadfast in proclaiming and defending your truth in the wider world. Give wisdom to faithful theologians and apologists. Protect their hearts from attack and discouragement. Grant them humility even as they speak of the truth with boldness.

I also pray for myself today and for all who know you that we might live in this world in a way that reveals your reality. Help me to be a person of true grace and humility. May the way I treat each and every person I meet reflect your hospitality. May I, and all of my brothers and sisters in you, truly be salt and light in this world. To you be all the glory. Amen.