Expert: Carl Fuglein - 8/6/2010

Question
Hello Carl!
I've been having some belief problems lately. I'm 13, and I know that these kinds of things always happen to kids my age. We eventually forget about God throughout our teenage years and use our time with friends, family, etc. For me it's a little different..My father's a pastor, and just 4 years ago when he took a break from preaching, he had a heart attack within the next couple of weeks. He was rushed to the hospital, barely breathing. All of us (the family) were thinking that today was the day he would go to heaven. But dramatically, my father was still and barely in stable condition for him to survive the attack and the surgery. Afterwards, he's been getting serious about the Lord's work. He then received the Spiritual Language, and the power to anoint people with the help of God. This is just like the way Pastor Benny Hinn has done in his Crusade missions. Anyways, I just feel lost right now. I can't think straight, and I keep telling myself that God is real. My friends, they're one major reason to me lacking faith. They've been telling me God isn't real and that if he were why wouldn't he show up in front of us? These question led me speechless. I didn't know what to say. I know many people like my father and mother suggested reading the Bible. But I don't think it's enough for me. Could you give me an answer, with the Lord's help..I'm in desperate need of help.

Answer
Well, when people tell me that God should show Himself, I tell them that he does - every day at sunrise and sunset, when roses bloom, when babies are born, when people like your father are healed, when druggies get clean, etc, etc,.

Be aware that Benny Hinn is not what he purports to be - he is in it only for the money - most people think of him as a cult leader, as do I.

I'm not sure I can answer your question - you will eventually come back to the faith - severyone has a crisis of faith at one time or another.  Just be patient.  I thought I was a Christian, but didn't really "get it" until I was in my 40's.

Jeremiah 29:11  For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
12  In those days when you pray, I will listen.
13  If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me.
14  I will be found by you," says the LORD. "I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and bring you home again to your own land."

I hope this helps.

Blessings,
carl