Seeking TruthSample

Why People Turn to Alternative Practices

‘Someone may say to you, “Let’s ask the mediums and those who consult the spirits of the dead. With their whisperings and mutterings, they will tell us what to do.” But shouldn’t people ask God for guidance? Should the living seek guidance from the dead?

Look to God’s instructions and teachings! People who contradict his word are completely in the dark.’

(Isaiah 8:19-20 NLT)

We’ve looked at some of the various practices that people can get themselves entangled in when searching for truth (see day 6 of this devotional), but we haven’t yet covered why they may seek out or practice these methods.

As the above Scripture verses outline, people often look into spirituality beyond the natural when they experience a feeling of being out of control.

They may want to know what is going to happen, what they should do or how to move forward in their lives.

They often want to be told what to do next.

Life events such as having a baby and becoming a parent, experiencing the loss of a loved one or moving to a new city can all instigate a desire for direction in life.

But the Bible makes a good point – ‘should the living seek guidance from the dead?’

Now, I recognise that consulting mediums for guidance is not the only practice that people can get involved in in their search for purpose and direction. But the premise is the same – they are not all-knowing God!

Crystals are essentially a collection of atoms, molecules or ions – that God created.

Astrology essentially surrounds the stars and planets – that God created.

Tarot cards are essentially images on cards – made from paper and trees – that God created.

I understand that some people attribute spiritual significance to these practices, but the point I am trying to make is that, whilst you may believe you are consulting a higher power in your practice of alternative spiritual methods, you are in fact tapping into a spiritual realm that was created and is ruled by God Himself.

So why not go to God Himself for your answers to life’s most complex questions?

So often, we do not want to lay down our pride and sense of individuality to accept that there is a God. If there is a God and we have chosen to follow Him, we must bow the knee and accept His way of doing life.

Until we are ready to reach that place, we will always seek to find alternative means that keep us in control of our own spiritual journeys.

Father God,

Please help me to lay down my prideful belief that I can live my life without you. Where I have searched for more independent means of spiritual fulfilment, please help me to lay them down as well and open myself up to a relationship with you.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.