I know it's a possibility, but how is everyone so sure?

Thank god... or.. uh... something, for somebody actually feeling the same way I do. I myself am athiest, and noone understands the way I feel. Thank you for posting this discussion juicebox. I just can't make myself believe that there is a "god" up in the sky. Sure they have had wierd visions, or spirits, that they've all seen. But does that really mean there is a "god"? The Bible: The ultimate record of Jesus's life. But is this really a record? How do we know that some guys decided to start making stuff up and start writing it in a book that was passed down for centuries? All of the religious and historical studying really doesn't mean anything. Unless we have a time machine, we are probably never going to find out. Im going to stick with being athiest. Not because I want to be different, but because I have backed up my beliefs with my own thoughts.

Because that is all a part of building your faith. Its like a friend told me one time. If your out in the middle of the ocean on a ship and you can't see the land. You can't see it but you know it is there. If and when you establish a relationship with God you will know he is there because you will feel him in yoru heart. Its hard to explain until it happens to you. :-)

No you don't have to be a believer from the start. You will take part of the second resurrection called the resurrection of the Nations. During this time you will see Jesus and his saints ruling here on Earth. You will get a second chance so don't worry. I can't believe how many "Christians" have never read their bibles.

you have to learn that God is everywhere.his promise of Judgment Day reminds you of watching your deeds.you cant meet him in person as you like, however, he will meet when time comes.my suggestion is that stop doubting and be a good person and live your life to the fullest.

Well, there are those who don't believe god exists at all which is atheism. To believe something without seeing is indeed "Faith" it's like you'll believe your siblings to be innocent at stealing because you knew them too well even though you really don't see it with your eyes. To me a true god wouldn't exclude people from heaven if he or she is not a believer :p I have no religion so far but I never harm anybody.

I definitely agree with your idea that some people believe in God because they're afraid.

I think this is where faith comes in. Faith is taking God at HIs Word. We need though to seek HIs Word too, so that we know what it is all about. It comes from knowing who you are believing in, indeed it would be very difficult to believe something you do not understand. The written word (Bible) describes God, how we can have life everlasting! It might seem complicated but it's not! Give yourself a chance to know God!

I have been taught that we receive proof after the trials of our faith. Faith being the belief of things hoped for and unseen. If we can go through our personal trials the reward is proof our Heavenly Father(God) exists. You do not have to be a believer from the start, but have good moral values and live a good life to be in good standing with God. He will not punish those that still have good values. We cannot live in fear of Him or we will never believe fully in Him. It is the fear of the percepts of men that others are afraid of, not God. God is love. He wants his children to live with him again. This is an investment well worth it. Like a PP said it is better to believe and be rewarded, then not believe and be condemned. It really depends on how you believe.