Recently I've participated in discussion on the topic of religion. @jacor, whom I consider my friend, made a post with a very intriguing title 'Why does God create or make people to go to hell?' And since this all started ;)
Personally, I believe in God.
Yes, I do believe. But I'm not limited to just faith. Understanding of God contributes to the development of love towards Him. Because love in a sense is an emotion, a feeling, a sentiment. I like to say that love is the connecting force. When I want to be close with someone (or something), it means that I love him\her (it). And knowledge, understanding can really help a feeling to grow bigger.
“Religion without philosophy is sentiment, or sometimes fanaticism, while philosophy without religion is mental speculation.”
― A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
We can argue about God. But it is better to judge by the fruits.
'Phalena paricyate'. So the Vedas say - 'judge by the fruits'. And the Lord Jesus teaches us the same wisdom.
15 Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit …
― Matthew 7:15-17
Do you know who is Nick Vujicic?
Do you know the story of his life? It's a man who was born without limbs. His parents were deeply religious people, as I understand it. And they took the soul cleansing trial with honor.
When I first saw Nick on TV, I was shocked and deeply moved. This spiritual power possessed by this man, is the best proof of God's existence and God's love for us.
Very often we reject God, seeing the physical suffering that pervades this world. Anyone who wants to reject God, will always find a reason to do it. But those who seek to understand God's plan, eventually, will receive the revelation and appreciate the intelligence and love of God.
“I encourage you to accept that you may not be able to see a path right now, but that doesn't mean it's not there.”
― Nick Vujicic, Life Without Limits
Nick Vujicic is living proof of God's love.
Let it sounds a bit rustic. But it's true. His life is beautiful. It's not very beautiful from an external point of view, because his physical condition is quite shocking. However, what he received together with the physical limitations is truly valuable. He received the intimacy with God. And this intimacy gives him strength greater than the strength that many physically healthy people have. This is the meaning of true religion. And this is an example of a true preacher.
“... God's love is so real that He created you to prove it.”
― Nick Vujicic, Life Without Limits
Nick Vujicic amazes me. He is one of the strongest arguments in favor of God's existence. And not just in favor of God's existence, but God's love. God is the greatest Person. But what's that to me that God exists? If I have no relationship with Him, His existence doesn't give me anything of value. For example, the President is a very powerful man. But what's in it for me? But if the President was my friend, my life would change dramatically.
“... God gave you just one mouth but He gave you two ears, so you should listen twice as much as you speak”
― Nick Vujicic, Life Without Limits
To realize that God exists is only half the battle. Make friends with God - that is the goal of spiritual life. And don't get me wrong. When I say "friends", it doesn't mean to be equal to God, no, it's impossible. It means to awake our dormant love for God. I believe, this is the core message of all true revealed scriptures.
To love means to admire and to strive to get close.
But I can't admire that person about whom I know nothing. Therefore, it is first necessary to obtain information, to learn about God or any other person. God is great. But I have to know what exactly is His greatness. Only then I will feel admiration and gratitude. And it will be the beginning of my spiritual journey back Home.
“I never met a bitter person who was thankful. Or a thankful person who was bitter.”
― Nick Vujicic
Nick is the one who in certain degree has awaken this love for God. Thus I think his life is a tremendous example to each of us. Besides, his life is the strongest argument in favor of God and faith in Him. And yes, there are many false religions, false doctrines and false teachers. But the one serious and sincere, will find the Truth.
- You can learn more about Nick Vujicic on his website here. And you can also follow him on Twitter. Or on Facebook. Or on YouTube!
- Thank you, @benadapt for your wonderful post about Nick Vujicic! It inspired me to share my impressions of this amazing man!
Guys, if you enjoy this, you're welcome to follow me! I'd be very happy!
[Featured image source: Nick's Facebook page]