Is the result of a positive self image the same as a strong belief in God?

Question

In other words, religious dogma or sermons have the same positive effects on me as motivational talks as long it speak to my issues.

Or am I missing something?

I hope my question is not too confusing - I don't know how to make it clearer. Let me know.

Answer 1

No, you are not missing something very important.

In hard times they may seem similar.

But a strong belief in God, a deep relationship with God, and the knowledge that God loves us unconditionally will steady and strengthen us through the worst disasters, deaths of loved ones and our own disease, injury and old age where a "positive self image" will crumble to pieces. I know it helps me, since I am in a gay relationship.

With love in the pope.

Answer 2

This is going to sound strange I understand what you are saying so far....

"dogma or sermons" are not the same thing. I think you might be reading between the lines a tad. Say if I never cooked a meal and I used a cookbook or watched a cooking show and bingo I'm now a home chef. I now feel like I know where I am going in the kitchen - kitchen confidence but I will still make mistakes. Sermons further educate us in our spiritual walk. I compare dogma to secularism so I'm having a bit of a problem with your comparison of sermons and dogma. Yes this sure does go on in churches however, if you can spot it you still have free will correct?

Answer 3

Yes, you are missing something very important.

In easy times they may seem similar.

But a strong belief in God, a deep relationship with God, and the knowledge the He (or She) loves us unconditionally will steady and strengthen us through the worst disasters, deaths of loved ones and our own disease, injury and old age where a "positive self image" will crumble to pieces.

With love in Christ.