Why We Say "I'll Never Stop Believing In God"

I’ve helped many people through their deconstruction journey. At the beginning they make the same claim: “I’ll never stop believing in God (or Jesus)!”

I respectfully listen but suggest they hold that thought and let’s see what happens.

Why do we do this? 

1. We really do still believe and we can’t imagine not believing. We’ve had this belief for so long that we can’t imagine not having it in the same way. We’re being genuine that we can’t imagine not believing in God. It’s hard not believing what we believe. Advice: Patiently wait for your beliefs to morph.

2. We still fear punishment for unbelief. If we still believe, then what goes with the belief is still there too. We all know what happens to unbelievers. The fear of Hell is deeply ingrained in us, making it hard to question or let go of beliefs. This is what I call The Paralyzing Grip of Theological Terror—a fear so deep that it keeps us locked in belief, even when doubts begin to surface. So along with this belief exists a latent fear of punishment and Hell. Advice: Focus on love and grace that doesn’t condemn questions and growth.

3. You can’t allow yourself to betray God. You can’t fathom betraying and not believing in God anymore. You’re not just betraying a belief... yet!... you’re betraying your heavenly father. And you can’t let yourself do that. Advice: Realize you won’t betray what you know is true.

Those three reasons are the most popular.

You still believe.
You fear not believing.
For you this is very real and personal.

Remember: beliefs are just thoughts we are very attached to. Once we see this, then the thoughts will change and the beliefs lose their power.

Enjoy your journey!