My FIL believes that when he started to pray more and go to church regularly with his wife, his “luck” changed and he became very successful in business. My perception of events would be more that when he is getting ready to make a bold move he tends to pray in it, and seeks God’s guidance. For me it’s more similar to meditating or focusing on the next step firsts in life. If God is his he takes his next step, then I’m happy to call it that.
I just don’t see why people need to be in such conflict about religion and God, when the belief in God isn’t harming others. When it does harm others that’s a different story. Still then, I don’t think we need to art k the belief in God, but rather try to explain where others are being hurt.
I, similar to Darth, have trouble believing in a God who let’s so many suffer. When there is one survivor on a plane crash I don’t believe God has a purpose for that one, because I don’t believe God felt all those others had no purpose. But, if others believe God has His hand in all of it, then that’s just another POV.
As far as the lottery, there is no answer, it depends on each individuals belief system.
@jca2 I agree about the name calling and words that are so dismissive and condescending. I hate it.