THE BASIS OF OUR BELIEFS

Many people’s belief system is a by-product of a foundation of poor parenting. If an individual has been exposed to ineffective parenting, a religious belief system may be based upon deficiencies in psychological development. Some people believe in a “tyrant God,” one who spreads gloom and doom. These individuals will talk incessantly about how they disappointed God, how they may have lost their salvation, and the guilt feelings that they experience. They live with the fear that God is mad at them. Until one deals with problems related to psychological development, one’s vision of religion and faith will be distorted. Often, people look out the lenses of their depression, anxiety, and fear and make faulty interpretations about the nature of spiritual reality.

However, along with the courage and risk of undertaking spiritual and psychological change comes a certain period of disorientation. But if we can tolerate the groan zone, we may move into a newer, fuller, richer place within. It is a place where we feel grounded, at peace with ourselves. There is a sense of humility than emanates from us as we view the world with wonder. We may sense that a Higher Power is working on our behalf. We are not afraid of those who disagree with us. We are also not afraid to look at a variety of spiritual and ethical dilemmas from different perspectives.

For example, if you are a pro-life advocate, can you build an argument to support the right to pro-choice? Some would suggest this way of thinking is sacrilegious. On the contrary, I believe that it is the only way to solidify what beliefs are really true for us. One must think in a flexible, multidimensional manner in order to develop a strong conviction on any issue. A good debater or an excellent attorney always gathers information regarding an opponent’s strongest argument. This in turn makes a case more compelling.

Spiritual growth and development calls for a change in our way of viewing God and spiritual reality. Those who embrace faith have an unreserved openness to the truth wherever they may find it. They are not afraid of doubt or new ways of navigating their spiritual journey. In fact, they view the process of doubting and changing as an integral part of their quest to find God and the truths surrounding Him.


James P. Krehbiel, Ed.S., LPC is an author, freelance writer, and cognitive-behavioral therapist practicing in Scottsdale, Arizona. He recently released Stepping Out of the Bubble available at http://www.booklocker.com/books/2242.html. James can be reached through his website at www.krehbielcounseling.com.