A biographical note on why my new framework of understanding God is so important
Part 3
Note: I am not saying that the new framework must be better than the old framework. I am not saying that the old framework is wrong; it could be right – in fact, I prefer it. All I’m saying is that, if it’s right, it goes beyond what a scientific explanation of reality can say, and goes beyond what Enlightenment principles of reason can say in their pursuit of truth and justice. Religion is (unsurprisingly) a speculative set of ideas that depends on faith, and a trust in God cannot be had without taking the leap of faith, beyond what can be known. This leap of faith is extremely precious to me, and I need to watch that my new framework does not inadvertently destroy the very thing that is most precious to me: faith in God. I don’t think it does, because the leap of faith is still essential if you are going to make a commitment to live this spiritual and religious life, and still depends on faith that the voice of God can indeed be created in your own mind (and that this voice will be “true to God” and so not delusional or destructive or merely self-interested). I nearly said that the new framework removes the need for faith in the intellectual sphere of removing the question: “Is God really there or not?” because that has a definite answer: definitely yes. Therefore, faith is only required in the sphere of making a commitment to live this way. However, what I’ve just said above is true: you still have to have faith that this inner spiritual life will develop and you will not just be talking to yourself or meditating on profound principles.
Spiritual Devotion 