It’s not uncommon to receive inquiries about God from people around us, whether we are religious leaders, educators, or simply friends and family members.

Dealing with these inquiries can be challenging, particularly when we are not sure how to answer them in a way that is helpful and respectful.

To help us navigate these conversations, we reached out to Alexandra Kappatou, a spiritual teacher and writer who has spent many years studying the intersection of spirituality and psychology. Here are some of her tips:.

Be aware of your own beliefs and biases

When someone asks us about God, it’s important to recognize that our own beliefs and biases can influence how we respond.

If we are not aware of these beliefs and biases, we may unintentionally push our own ideas onto the person asking the question, rather than listening to their perspective and understanding where they are coming from.

One way to become more aware of our own beliefs and biases is to reflect on our experiences and the people who have influenced us.

We can ask ourselves: What religious or spiritual background do I come from? What experiences have shaped my beliefs about God? What beliefs do I hold about people who have different beliefs than me?.

By exploring these questions, we can better understand our own worldview and how it may impact our responses to inquiries about God.

Listen actively

When someone asks us about God, it’s important to listen actively and attentively to what they are saying.

This means giving them our full attention, asking questions to clarify their thoughts and feelings, and reflecting back what we’ve heard to make sure we understand them correctly.

Active listening can help us build trust and rapport with the person asking the question, and can also help us understand where they are coming from and what they are hoping to learn or explore.

Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know”

Many inquiries about God are complex and nuanced, and it’s not always possible to have a clear-cut answer.

In these cases, it’s okay to say “I don’t know.” This response is honest and authentic, and can also create space for further exploration and learning.

However, it’s important to follow up by saying something like “But let’s explore this together” or “Let me do some research and get back to you.” This shows that you are willing to engage with the question and are committed to finding answers and understanding.

Avoid making assumptions

When it comes to inquiries about God, it’s easy to make assumptions based on our own experiences and perspectives. However, assuming that we know what someone is thinking or feeling can create barriers to understanding and connection.

Instead, we can approach inquiries about God with an open mind and a willingness to learn. We can ask questions to clarify the person’s perspective and listen with curiosity and respect.

By avoiding assumptions, we can create a space for deeper exploration and connection.

Be respectful of different beliefs

People have a wide range of beliefs and perspectives when it comes to God, and it’s important to approach these inquiries with respect and curiosity, even if we don’t agree with the person’s beliefs.

One way to be respectful is to avoid judgment or criticism. We can acknowledge that everyone has the right to their own beliefs and that these beliefs are shaped by many factors, including culture, family background, and personal experiences.

We can also avoid trying to convert or convince the person of our own beliefs. Instead, we can focus on building understanding and connection, and creating space for mutual learning and growth.

Find common ground

Even if we have different beliefs about God, there are often areas of common ground where we can connect. For example, we may both value compassion, love, or connection to something greater than ourselves.

By finding common ground, we can build bridges of understanding and respect, and create space for mutual learning and growth.

Recognize the power of language

The language we use when we talk about God can have a significant impact on how we are perceived and understood.

For example, using language that is inclusive and respectful can create a sense of openness and welcome, while using language that is exclusive or judgmental can create barriers and misunderstandings.

When we speak about God, it’s important to be mindful of the words we use and their impact on others.

We can use language that is respectful and inclusive of different beliefs and perspectives, and that creates space for connection and understanding.

Don’t shy away from difficult conversations

Inquiries about God can sometimes lead to difficult or uncomfortable conversations, particularly when we have different beliefs or perspectives. However, these conversations can also be an opportunity for growth and learning.

Don’t shy away from difficult conversations. Instead, approach them with openness and curiosity, and be willing to learn from the person asking the question.

Offer support and resources

Finally, it’s important to offer support and resources to the person asking the question.

Depending on the nature of the inquiry, this may include referring them to a religious or spiritual leader, providing them with books or other resources, or simply being available to listen and support them as they explore their questions and beliefs.

By offering support and resources, we can help the person feel heard and understood, and also create opportunities for deeper growth and exploration.

Conclusion

Inquiries about God can be challenging, but they can also be opportunities for growth, learning, and deeper connection.

By approaching these conversations with openness, curiosity, and respect, and by using the tips provided by Alexandra Kappatou, we can create a space for mutual learning and growth, and deepen our own understanding of the complexities and richness of spirituality and belief.