The Funny Thing About Evidence

   Evidence can be a funny, fickle thing. Even though it can be clear and precise, it can be ignored or misinterpreted. To be sure, there can be a lack of any evidence; and yet, someone can take something minuscule, vague, out of context, and call it evidence. The optic behind it may be determined by the heart of the beholder. It can depend on how honest someone is with his or her self, and others.

   Whatever a person’s world view will greatly shape how he interprets things. As believers, we are called to renew our minds, because our thought processes can interfere with receiving God’s truth in the way He wants us to receive it. It is important for our way of thinking to align with His.

   That being said, when someone misinterprets evidence, it doesn’t necessarily mean he is being dishonest. It means he seeing things through a specific lens that discolors what’s being seen. One example would be someone’s upbringing greatly affecting his viewpoint. Something to remember, should you be tempted to be frustrated with someone who just doesn’t see things your way.  

   There are those who reject truth, and no amount of evidence will sway them. Truth holds people accountable, and many want to do their own thing without consequence. This is one reason some call themselves atheists. Not to worry, this will not be a lesson on apologetics. It is something, however, to consider if you should find yourself pushing back when you hear truth.

   Hebrews 4:12-13 For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with Whom we have to do.

    Similarly, truth tends to challenge people to think differently and make changes. Hence, another reason some overlook evidence that contradicts what they believe. Truth can shake things up, especially if you’re comfortable.

    Another aspect about evidence is that God places much of it before us. He gives us reasons to believe and to walk by faith. It’s not about having blind faith; in fact, there’s no such thing. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17). Faith requires God to manifest Himself, before it can legitimately be called faith. He calls to everyone, and provides evidence of His existence, as well as the legitimacy of His Word.   

Evidence Revealed Visually

   Romans 1:18-21 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

   This verse reiterates some things just mentioned, and also reveals the reason for the wrath to come. For the moment, let’s focus on evidence. Creation itself, screams there is a God. Nature reveals it’s the God of the Bible; not some empty manmade god. Here is one single illustration to underscore this point. By the way, there are innumerable examples.

   Have you ever wondered why the most terrifying animals on the planet are afraid of man? How is it we have dominion over creatures much larger than ourselves? Many of which could easily destroy us. The Bible gives us the explanation.

   Genesis 9:1-2 And God blessed Noah and his sons and said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth. The fear of you and the terror of you will be on every beast of the earth and on every bird of the sky; with everything that creeps on the ground, and all the fish of the sea, into your hand they are given.  

   Of course, earlier in Genesis we were told we would have dominion over all that inhabited the earth (Genesis 1:28). The Word is very specific with things beyond man’s reasoning. In short, humanity on its best day couldn’t come up with these things. And yet, there’s another piece of evidence: our capacity to reason. After all, we were created in His image.

Remember the Evidence

   Many of us can testify of things God has done for us. Which is also evidence of His love. Should things get dicey in life, remember the evidence. It serves as a reminder of what He said in His Word.

   Hebrews 13:5 For He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my Helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”