“Lead On” by Myra Alibrando
Our Unconscious Life
Probably most of us, and around the world, we do most things unconsciously. The things we eat, the things we think are funny, what is attractive, our general philosophy, and what we believe.
It is confrontation or tragedy that challenges our assumptions. These are the seasons of change in life. The only other way to grow is having great passion, but even this does not make us as open to major change as tragedy or confrontation.
Adventurous Philosophy
I was a philosophical young man reading Kahlil Gibran and writing poetry when I was 16. Running away from home, quitting high school, Scientology and traveling long distances alone finally led somewhere.
After accepting Christ at a church in Delaware, and later graduating from Youth With A Mission, I went to college with my high school equivalency certificate.
Evolution #1 Belief at College
Telling others about Christ, evolution was the #1 reason students gave for not believing the Bible. I was not prepared, since evolution was just something I decided I did not believe as a Christian.
This was one of those unconscious things that was developing into a confrontation to my faith.
Arguing Without Understanding
I started a column in the college paper that went to about 5 or 6 thousand. I called the column “To See or Not to See: That is the Vision” and argued against evolution. It was not from my own understanding but more of a “copy/paste” thing from research.
I read a scientist book on creationism but honestly, I did not understand it. Admittedly, I was glad there was a scientist who believed Genesis rather than evolution because that meant there were smart people with that conclusion. However, it was undeniable, I personally could not counter evolution’s so-called evidence.
If Evolution is True, I Don’t Want to be a Christian
This was my confrontation. If evolution was really true, I did not want to be a Christian. Jesus said you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free, so how could God object.
I began my quest of honest research completely willing to believe evolution and reject Christianity depending on what I discovered.
Research based on curiosity is far more honest than research to defend a position.
Research based on curiosity is far more honest than research to defend a position.
Unbiased Curiosity Makes for Great Confidence
On the other side of that research, my confidence in Genesis increased 10-fold, but most of this started in my thirties.
My first book on this topic 25 years after college, was a compilation of articles written in a column for a community newspaper in California. This was not a copy/paste presentation but my own thinking and observation.ore than ten years later, the 1st book “Nature Never Stops Talking”. The only thing evolved was my writing (chuckle). I hope my writing is still improving every decade.
I want you to tell you how things blossomed for me. I hope to possibly encourage you to see that this evolution/origins is not a mere academic thing.
My Stages of Revelation
As you read these seven statements, imagine me looking up at you after reading each of these.
Evolution is false, utterly false anti-science deception (this is huge on so many levels!)
Intelligent design is parallel with observable evidence (very relevant)
Nature's genius engineering shows intelligence is not only superior, but immeasurably powerful, incredible, and inspiring (getting awesome)
Once the issue of credit was resolved (the Author, Creator, & Origin of nature), nature itself became a growing source of awe, rightfully tempting me to worship (nature getting me emotional)
Once all of these were fully embraced mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and in the full sense of verifiable science, I inwardly refer to nature as creation. This mindset invoked my scientific and personal curiosity as to God’s inventive thoughts in designing things the way He chose. Everything in all of space and on earth has become a personal connection because with God. God's invitation of forgiveness and adoption with His guidance and promises is my Creator and of everything else in creation. (my own faith is changing)
The glory of creation in contrast to the horror of humanity's crimes has ben throughout history and continues today. This vexing inconsistency arouses a great curiosity in me and has made me run to the Bible for answers nature alone can never provide. With growing confidence in the Bible, I go there to learn the history of God with man and how God responds to man's rebellion. (This is personal curiosity)
Suddenly, I realize my subjective faith is endorsed by objective - trillions of tangible proofs. Everything in nature is not of human origin and that is objective verifiable evidence of God. For me, this also added to my confidence in His promises about the future. (Revolutionary on multiple levels!)
Personal Revelations’ Impact on Me
Intertwining observation, reason, nature, the Bible, and experimenting with obedience to God, has changed my life.
It should be no surprise that what started as an intellectual quest eventually morphed into a journey admiring, then wanting to conform to God's values. He’s so smart. He’s so powerful. He is so willing to teach us. “What should I do next, God?”
I still enjoy reading and thinking how to weave so much learning into a tapestry with all the parts fitting into one vision. Hard to do for us mortals with learning never ending, but I enjoy it.
I know this pleasure and the depth of satisfaction would be impossible if I was still questioning whether evolution might be true. There is no shadow of doubt. I am so glad I was willing to give up my faith to know the real truth because God is the real truth . . . as real as everything in nature and your very existence.
You can put this evolution vs creationism to rest deep in your soul. If I can do it, you can do it. Whatever resources I have, I am happy to share. It is extremely rewarding.
Have a great week enjoying your existence on a planet God invented.
Hopefully in May, I will begin posting short YouTube segments on creationism. I will alert you here.
No 99-second Nature Narration audio this week due to technical issues. Let me know if you miss it.
I completely agree with everything you shared in your article. Your journey of questioning and researching evolution versus creationism is truly inspiring. Your dedication to seeking the truth and aligning your beliefs with faith is commendable. I appreciate you sharing your personal revelations and the impact they have had on your life.
In my own life, I have faced challenges and uncertainties, but through prayer and studying the Bible, I have found strength and clarity. Just like you, I have experienced the beauty and wonder of God's creation, and it has deepened my faith and connection to Him.
Thank you for writing this article and sharing your insights with us. 🙏🌟