Does God really exist?

Today, belief in God is no longer assumed or valued. From the fields of science to sociology, we hear voices declaring that we no longer need God and that He is simply a figment of the imaginations of people.

In this climate, many are asking the question, "How can I know God exists?" It is impossible to "prove" the existence--or non-existence--of God. But the real question is, "Does the evidence around us argue for or against the existence of a divine Creator?" Just as a spectacular building or an inspiring piece of music draws us to the one who designed or wrote it, Psalm 19 claims that the creation itself testifies to the reality of God, reflecting both the existence and attributes of our Creator.

The Passage

"The heavens declare the glory og God; and the firmament showeth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard. Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. his going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof. The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward. Who can understand his errors? Cleanse thou me from secret faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD my strength, and my redeemer. " Psalm 19:1-14 KJV

The Lesson

1. David showed how creation attests to the existence of God. David wasn't just telling us to look at a mountain or tree and know that God exists. He pointed out that creation was speaking about God's existence. Much like the psalm itself, David showed how God's creation sings of its Creator. David noted a few significant ways the heavens spoke of God:
-The vastness of the sky in general
-The pattern and transition from day to night
- The rising of the sun and how it warms the earth

We may take for granted the splendor and beauty of what God has created. Getting up to catch the sunrise can be a true worship experience as we are reminded of God's vast power and our own limited abilities and perspectives. Just taking a look up at the sky n a clear night seeing billions and billions of stars helps reveal the magnitude of the Creator.

2. The sky and sun are just two examples of God revealing Himself through nature. We shouldn't focus on these natural and physical realities as much as we should focus on the God who created them. As astounding and remarkable as God's creation is, it only goes so far in providing what we need to know about God. Let's look at two types of revelation.
-General Revelation. Up to this point, we've been looking at how God has revealed Himself in a general sense through nature
- Special Revelation . God has also revealed Himself by direct communication with people. This special revelation is found in God's Word--The Bible.

God's word is perfect; as such, it brings restoration to people. The Lord's statutes are morally consistent. They lead a heart to rejoice. Because God's Word is so crucial to cultivating a proper view and reverence for Him, David called it the "fear of the LORD". The Word of God is also a protective shield, preventing sin. To know God better, know the scripture that reveals Him.

3. We must respond to God's revelation with our hearts and minds. David certainly knew through his own successes and failures the importance of heeding the revelation of God. David acknowledged the inability of a man to discern truth and error apart from God's Word. Aware of his own hidden and unknown faults, David desired to be declared innocent.

David's acknowledgement of his own sin and how God works to redeem His people was crucial to his faith. Understanding that God is real and that we can know Him, leads us to a greater understanding of our need for Him. We should respond as David did to the reality of God.

- David pleaded with God to keep him from taking His grace for granted. He desired to be sensitive rather than callous toward sin.
- David was horrified at the prospect of sin ruling over his life . Disobedience to God leads to a loss of direction in life. Lacking proper discernment, we move down paths God has clearly marked off limits for our own protection.
- David asked that his words might be acceptable or pleasing in the sight of God . He wanted to honor the God who has graciously and clearly spoken in Scripture.
- David prayed that the meditations of his heart be acceptable in God's sight . Internally and externally, David sought to honor God.

The end,

I hope you guys got something out of the message!


Ohana