Take the Functional Atheist quiz!

1. When a problem comes what do you do first?

a. Try to fix it.
b. Thank God for the opportunity to see Him work and ask for His guidance.

2. When you make your to-do list what do you do first?

a. Write down all that must be done and jump into doing it.
b. Ask God what He wants you to do today and seek His guidance as you prioritize your day.

3. How many times a day do you think about, and/or talk to, God?

a. Never
b. Once or twice a day.
c. Several times a day.
d. Often.
e. Without ceasing.

Most Christians sitting in the pews every Sunday are functional atheists. It’s not that they don’t believe in God. They do. Many can recite theological principles with practiced ease, but their approach to daily life is much the same as that of an atheist. My husband, Brad, says it this way: Functional atheists depend on their own wisdom and strength on a moment-by-moment basis, rather than on the God of the Bible. Without realizing it, they are consumed with getting through the daily grind on their own efforts. Their Loving, All-Powerful, All-Knowing and Faithful God is ready to help but they’re almost blind to His Presence. I know, I’ve been there and done that. We say we believe in God and then we live in the moment as if He doesn’t exist.

In her devotion, Jesus Calling, Sarah Young writes:

Pause before responding to people or situations, giving (the Holy) Spirit space to act through you. Hasty words and actions leave no room for Me [Jesus]; this is atheistic living.

I don’t know about you, but my days are full and I move from one thing to another at record speed. Pausing to listen for God’s voice doesn’t come naturally! Sticky note reminders helped me turn a corner. Strategically placed, they were a constant reminder to fix my eyes on Jesus and bring Him into whatever I was doing at the moment.

What will help you pause throughout the day and leave room for God to speak and act?

If you truly believe in God, don’t struggle through life as a functional atheist. Our Personal, Loving, All-Powerful, Sovereign, Faithful, Merciful, Ever Present, All-Knowing, Unchanging God wants to be a part of every minute of every one of your days!

For God wanted them to know that the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too. And this is the secret: Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing his glory. Col. 1:27 NLT