Where are the aspirants for a better and more glorious World? The off-handed attempt at homour indicates we fail to deal with our personal situations with intelligent rigour. That we do not like the reality so create a diversion in our own minds. Their god is an emotional cosy, or an indulgence in some form of lust.

Most views of God posted here are merely immature unintelligent childhood impressions from people who have not studied or experienced an intelligent devotion to the ideals of human character and relationships. God is revealed in human character, attitudes, behaviours and wisdom. Until we seek God in these expressions we will never perceive Him. All people are basicly self-centered, envious and lustful and it is adiction to these attitudes that keep us from knowing God. Their gods are their self centered appetites.

What does an atheist, dyslexic, insomniac do?
Give up?
He lies awake all night wondering if there really is a DOG!

Well yes, one could read all the posts if one had time. I have a job!
To answer about the Vietnamese, it is a mostly Buhddist society and it is a way of life more than a 'religion'. I don't practise a religion so much as I stay away from all cults. God following is a cult and think about the meaning of the word, 'cult'. Look up its definition some more for it certainly applies to so many of the belief systems out there. They are all 'beliefs'. A faith only. Who has got it right. After death we'll know? My last comment would be to say that one day, sure as death and taxes we'll all know who had it right!

Did you hear about the dyslexic devil-worshipper who sold his soul to Santa?

How many animals of each type did Moses lead onto the ark?

Cakers thanx for the statistical perspective and education.

Belly,

“The Christian Bible tells us ... dead are dead till the return.”

Like I said I don’t accept the JW take on things. Sorry if that has some historical significance to you.

Wobbles,

You did have that stuff about the beaten etc. coming.

Perhaps it won't resolve but similar discussions have resolved many many times.

”How amazing to ... to use this knowledge to control and compel others to do as you command.”

Less amazing if descriptions are based on reality not caricatures.

A genuine attempt to share love is not arrogance or something to flaunt as a badge of honour. If God is the creator wouldn’t it make sense that God might like to hand you things on a stick? A creator is analogous to a parent. Do you have children? Would you like them to learn the easy way or in the school of hard knocks?

”I have found that the more devout many followers are, the closer they are to ... “

Nah those who have that background just have more inspiring stories so you hear them more.

”However, the relationship I have between myself and whatever I conceive “God” to be is entirely my own, as will be any consequences.”

Basically you associate God with free choice but you aren’t Christian are you?

”I don’t need ... any more than I need a real Estate Agent ...”

To each there own. I use agents because they tend to know who is selling and I can get the house I want quicker.

”... are historically just as likely to send me to blow myself up or slaughter others on their behalf as circumstances demand.”

Not as likely but I think most religious people would point out that the act of standing in a Church or Temple doesn’t automatically makes you a better person. It only gives opportunity.

” That’s what my conscience is doing for me all the time.”
A well formed conscience is often valued by religious people.

Thanks for your comments.