There are two ways to gain knowledge about the world we live in (and I mean both physical and spiritual worlds). First is that we can believe in the things that are told to us. Second is that we can try to find answers on our own. Let us call people who prefer the first way "believers", and the second, "investigators". No person is a pure "believer" or a pure "investigator", because in our life we all combine those two approaches to gaining knowledge. Even the most skeptical of us dont question a number of things just because they have no time and no desire to prove them. And even the most convinced believers do have their own doubts over certain aspects of their life.

It is up to us whether we choose to be "believers" or "investigators". This decision is based on our priorities.

For example, it is better for those who are looking for certainty to become "believers" and not to ask too many questions. People of such a kind are more interested in traditional, Fundamentalist religions. Basically, they are good, trustworthy and reliable people, good spouses and citizens, highly acclaimed by their neighbors, and it is not my intention to put them down.

Are you looking for certainty above all else? My advise is this: find a church that you like the best (which depends on your personal preferences), and become its faithful member. Believe all things that you hear from a pulpit. Dont ask questions. Assume that your minister knows it all, anyway, he (she) spent so many years in seminary and in ministry. Give him (her) your money in exchange for a dose of certainty every Sunday. If you will ever hear some people who dont agree with your church doctrine, have a pity for them, because they dont see the True Light. Be blessed, and be happy, for millions of godly people around the world are doing just the same. It is a way that they choose, and there are no reasons to condemn it. Actually, their religion may be a good one!

However, if you think that such a lifestyle limits you and does not agree with your deepest desires, you can choose another way, and to become an "investigator".

People from this category are more interested in their own personal development rather than certainty. They act like true scientists, who are always willing to challenge their current knowledge of reality in order to gain more accurate knowledge. They like questions, because every question gives them an opportunity to rise higher in their understanding. They boldly face difficulties, because they are sure that lifes problems make them stronger, wiser and more loving.

If we are looking for continuous personal development, let us be prepared to live in an uncertainty of new questions and new challenges. And if an outside world seems to be slow in bringing us new challenges, let us challenge ourselves!

Personally, I tend to be an "investigator". When I hear a statement that Christians should believe, or behave in such and such way, my first silent question is, "Really? Are there any other options?" My intention is not to be skeptical (as a matter of fact, skepticism often reminds me a religion), but to be flexible in mind. I dont want to be settled with a number of cliches. I dont want others to steal my joy of discovery, and I dont try to steal it from others.

I think that the Bible encourages, and not discourages seekers and investigators. "Seek, and you will find, knock, and it will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7), said Jesus. However, what so many people fail to understand is that the process of seeking and finding is meant to be eternal. Our spiritual unfoldment is meant to be eternal. My opinion is that we cannot stop our search on "getting converted", finding "the true church" or "the true doctrine". God, the Reality of Being is infinitely higher than any church, any dogma or any person, even the most enlightened one.

I have a lifelong love affair with the Reality of Being.