God Is a Psychological Need Essay Example
God Is a Psychological Need Essay Example

God Is a Psychological Need Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (964 words)
  • Published: May 26, 2016
  • Type: Essay
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In his essay titled "How Religion Arose, and Why it Flourished," C.E.M. Joad defines religion as a "psychological necessity" and emphasizes the reliance of individuals on God for comfort. According to Joad, religious people turn to God for solace and find refuge in Him to overcome fears such as the fear of death. The author further argues that faith in God serves as a protective shield, providing believers with assurance of safety even beyond death.

I completely disagree with the notion that religion is only a psychological tool for self-improvement. I have absolute faith in God and firmly believe in the miracles He performs and the guidance He gives me. C.E.M. Joad suggests that humans invented God to fulfill certain needs, stating, "Therefore, the main religions in our world are not based on theology but rather psychology; they serve as

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an expression of human creativity rather than reflecting God's qualities" (Joad 172).

According to Joad, religion provides comfort in times of fear instead of relying solely on faith and showing gratitude for God's blessings. This is evident as some people only pray when facing hardships for solace, while devout believers pray every day regardless of their situation.

During times of fear, religion provides comfort and hope as we seek assistance from God, who is seen as a mighty being capable of protecting us from the world's dangers.

The Bible teaches that God is with us and comforts us. Psalm 23:4 confirms this by stating that even in the darkest times, God remains by our side, guiding and protecting us.

According to Joad (171), God provides assistance when w

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experience loneliness or require protection. Joad argues that during challenging periods, God acts as our support system. The religious consciousness has advanced beyond its potential origins of primitive fears and insincere praises.

Joad suggests that religion was created by man as a source of hope during challenging times. As evidence, he references Psalm 4:8 from the Bible, where God promises peaceful sleep and safety in His presence.

Our lives were protected by God when an incident happened during the summer while my parents were sailing on Lake Michigan in a severe storm. The waves soared to 8-12 feet and powerful winds reached speeds of up to 100mph. Unable to find a means of escape, they sought assistance from the coast guard. Fortunately, a helicopter promptly arrived and guided them to the coast guard station in Chicago.

Despite the coast guard receiving two more calls, my parents were able to bring their boats back safely while others lost theirs to the storm. While some may think this was due to luck or the competency of the Coast Guard, I believe it was because of God's presence ensuring their safe return. This incident supports Joad's argument that prayers for safety can be answered in times of need. It is worth noting that fear and unhappiness are not the only emotions experienced by religious individuals when they pray to God.

Christians and followers of other religions express gratitude to their God or gods daily when they encounter positive situations. For example, a student with an average grade point asks for acceptance into a prestigious university through prayer and then feels grateful upon receiving the

news.

The student expresses gratitude to God for answering their prayers and praising Him for His glory, as it brings fulfillment and value to all aspects of our lives. It is important to acknowledge God's grace and express thankfulness, as stated in Ephesians 1:6.

Praise God for His goodness (Psalm 135:3), kindness (Psalm 117), and salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9).

These Bible verses provide clear reasons for praising our almighty father.

People who believe in God not only pray to him for help and relief from their problems, but also show gratitude for the positive things he has done in our lives. According to C.E.M. Joad's argument, religious individuals have an internal moral compass that can differentiate between right and wrong actions and understand the consequences that follow. To demonstrate their devotion and serve God, it is crucial to follow the principles outlined in the Ten Commandments and the Bible. Joad argues that religion encourages conformity with societal norms and prompts individuals to consider potential consequences like damnation.

Joad (175) argues that morality is not inherent in humans, but rather goes against their natural instincts and requires them to give up their innate rights.

The social contract of society may conflict with human's innate instincts. During class, Professor Wilson asked students if they would lead their lives differently in a world where God exists but Heaven and Hell do not, or if they would change their behaviors knowing there are no consequences of going to Hell.

Approximately 90% of the class expressed their willingness to change their lifestyle, offering validation for Joad's claim. The results of this survey conducted within

the classroom imply that without the existence of Heaven or Hell, individuals may not feel compelled to follow the societal obligations typically linked with religion.

If there were no consequences for going to Hell, it would remove the subconscious motivation to adhere to the Bible and Ten Commandments, which I consider unjust. God consistently helps us with miracles and assists us in our difficulties. Is it fair to take advantage of Him and solely prioritize ourselves? God acts as a guiding influence to ensure we stay on track and guide us towards a fulfilling existence.

The Bible instructs us in Deuteronomy 6:5 to completely love and commit ourselves to God. To effectively navigate life, we can seek guidance from churches, religious leaders, and the teachings of the Bible. Instead of solely seeking comfort, God serves as a guiding teacher who encourages us to emulate Jesus and dedicate ourselves as servants of God.

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