Is God Real? The Search for the Divine...
For as long as humanity has existed, we have sought answers to life’s most profound questions: Why are we here? What happens after we die? Is there a higher power governing the universe? While science offers explanations for the physical world, the spiritual realm remains an enigma—one that transcends logic, yet profoundly shapes our experiences.
As someone who has walked through fire—battling cancer, navigating life as an adopted only child, and overcoming adversity—I’ve personally encountered moments that defy coincidence. Prayers answered at the eleventh hour, doors opening when all seemed lost, and an undeniable presence of guidance beyond my own understanding. These experiences lead me to believe that there is, indeed, something greater at work—what I call the Divine. But is God real?
A Universal Belief in the Divine
The concept of God, or a higher power, is not unique to any one religion. Across cultures and centuries, humanity has instinctively turned to the heavens for hope, purpose, and understanding. In Christianity, God is the omniscient Creator; in Islam, Allah is the Most Merciful; in Hinduism, Brahman is the infinite cosmic force; and in Buddhism, while there may not be a personal deity, the pursuit of enlightenment is guided by spiritual forces. Even within indigenous traditions, there is reverence for nature, spirits, and an unseen world.
We are not alone
Despite theological differences, a shared belief emerges: we are not alone. Whether we call upon God, the Universe, Source Energy, or the Divine, there is an inherent human inclination to seek connection with something beyond ourselves.
Scientific studies even suggest that spirituality positively impacts human well-being. Research from Koenig et al. (2012) in The Handbook of Religion and Health highlights that individuals with strong spiritual beliefs tend to experience lower levels of stress and higher rates of resilience. Another study published in Psychological Science (Norenzayan & Shariff, 2008) found that belief in a higher power can foster cooperative behavior and moral decision-making, suggesting an evolutionary benefit to faith. Similarly, research from Harvard Medical School (Rosmarin et al., 2011) suggests that belief in divine guidance, including the presence of angels or spiritual guides, can lead to improved mental health outcomes and emotional resilience.
My Journey: Answered Prayers and Divine Intervention
Faith isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting in something greater, even when the path is unclear. I’ve experienced this trust firsthand. As a cancer survivor, there were moments when I felt utterly powerless. Yet, in my most vulnerable state, I witnessed an undeniable truth: the Divine shows up, often in unexpected ways.
There have been countless times when I prayed for financial provision, for a way to keep my practice afloat, or for resources I had no idea where to find. I remember nights when I couldn’t see a way forward—when bank accounts were empty, and every logical avenue was exhausted. But within 48 hours of each of those prayers, something miraculous happened. A call, an unexpected opportunity, or a new door would open. That is not coincidence; that is Divine timing.
One of the most profound examples of this occurred when I was at a financial low point. My business was at a standstill, bills were piling up, and I had nowhere else to turn. I prayed fervently, asking God to make a way. Within two days, I received an unexpected business opportunity that not only covered my expenses but also led to long-term financial stability. Time and time again, I have witnessed the Divine respond in moments when logic suggested no way forward.
The Role of Faith Beyond Religion
Faith is often associated with religious doctrine, but belief in the Divine doesn’t require adherence to organized religion. Many people struggle with faith because they equate it with institutions rather than relationship. But God—or whatever name one chooses for the Divine—is not confined to a church, mosque, or temple.
Faith is the quiet reassurance that we are guided. It’s the inexplicable peace that comes when circumstances say we should be afraid. It’s the unseen hand that orchestrates moments too precise to be mere chance. And faith, at its core, is deeply personal.
This is why, when people ask, “Is God real?” my response is not to prove or disprove, but rather to invite reflection: Have you ever experienced something that logic alone couldn’t explain? Have you ever received exactly what you needed, right when you needed it? If so, perhaps you’ve already encountered the Divine.
The Presence of Angels and Divine Messengers
Across religions, the presence of angels or divine messengers is a recurring theme. In Christianity and Islam, angels serve as God’s messengers, guiding and protecting humanity. In Judaism, angels intervene in critical moments, and in Hinduism, celestial beings oversee cosmic order. Even in non-religious spirituality, the idea of guardian spirits or universal energy providing direction is prevalent.
Many people, including myself, have had experiences where they were guided toward the right people, opportunities, or solutions without knowing how or why. I recall times when I was about to make a decision that would have led to disaster, only for an unexpected encounter or sudden clarity to steer me in another direction. Those moments, I believe, are not just intuition—they are divine interventions.
Trusting the Divine: A Call to Open-Mindedness
The question of God’s existence is one that each person must answer for themselves. But one thing is certain—whether we believe or not, life has a way of reminding us that we are not in control. There is an order to the universe that defies randomness. There are moments of grace that logic can’t fully explain. And there is a presence that speaks—not always in an audible voice, but in ways our hearts recognize.
So, is God real? I invite you to reflect, not with skepticism, but with curiosity. Look back on your life. Consider the times you’ve been saved from what could have been disaster. Think about the people who’ve come into your life at precisely the right moment. Perhaps faith isn’t about certainty, but about acknowledging that some things are too extraordinary to be mere chance.
In the end, belief in God—or the Divine—is less about finding empirical proof and more about experiencing an undeniable presence. For me, the answer is clear: God is real. And whether we see it immediately or in hindsight, Divine love, guidance, and timing are always at work.
Final Thoughts: A Journey, Not a Destination
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Spirituality isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being open to the journey. No matter your background, beliefs, or doubts, the Divine remains present—patiently waiting for you to recognize its hand in your life.
So, if you’re searching, questioning, or simply wondering, I encourage you to stay open. Talk to God, the Universe, or whatever name resonates with you. Ask for clarity. And then, pay attention.
Because sometimes, the greatest evidence of God’s presence is not in the miraculous—but in the moments we once called coincidence and now recognize as Divine.
Dr. D Ivan Young is an expert on human behavior and relationships. He’s a Master Credentialed expert on personality type, an ICF Master Certified Coach, a Certified Positive Intelligence Coach, and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Dr. Young is also a member of the prestigious Forbes Coaches Council and a Fellow at the Institute of Coaching an affiliate of the Harvard Medical School. For more information visit https://drdivanyoung.com