In recent times, you might have noticed a growing trend of people praying to the universe. Whether on TV, the Internet, or even in casual conversations, phrases like, “I call on the universe to make my dreams come true,” “I thank the universe for helping me get the breakthrough that I need in my career,” or “I manifest my goals through the universe,” are becoming more common.
At first, it may seem like a harmless or even inspiring practice, but a closer examination reveals significant theological implications that warrant careful consideration.
Understanding the Concept: Pantheism
To fully grasp why this practice is problematic, it’s essential to understand the belief system behind it. Praying to the universe is deeply rooted in Pantheism, an age-old theological concept. Pantheism posits that the entire universe and nature are divine, merging the concept of God with the cosmos itself. In this belief system, there is no distinction between the universe and a supreme being; everything in existence, from the stars in the sky to the plants on Earth, is part of this divine unity. Essentially, Pantheism equates the universe itself with God.
The Conflict Between God and Praying to the Universe
What is particularly surprising is that many who engage in this practice identify as Christians or believers in God. This conflation of the universe with God is mind-boggling and problematic from a Christian perspective. As believers in the One True and Living God, Yahweh the Most High, we are called to worship Him alone and not His creation. The Apostle Paul addresses this issue in Romans 1:24-25:
Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
Here, Paul criticizes the practice of worshiping creation instead of the Creator. This is precisely what happens when people pray to the universe: they honor the creation rather than Yahweh, who created all things through His Son, Yahshua the Messiah (Jesus Christ).
The Limitations of the Universe
It is crucial to recognize that the universe cannot hear your prayers, grant the desires of your heart, or have a personal relationship with you. The allure of praying to the universe often lies in its perceived majesty and mystery. However, this is a form of idolatry, as outlined in Deuteronomy 4:19:
And take heed, lest you lift your eyes to heaven, and when you see the sun, the moon, and the stars, all the host of heaven, you feel driven to worship them and serve them, which the LORD your God has given to all the peoples under the whole heaven as a heritage.
The universe, with all its beauty and grandeur, is merely a part of God’s creation. It is meant to point us to His greatness, not replace Him as the object of our worship.
The Role of Creation
The universe serves as a testament to God’s invisible attributes and eternal power, as stated in Romans 1:20:
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.
Creation itself is designed to draw us closer to understanding God’s magnificence and divine nature and not start praying to the universe. Yet, many have turned this understanding on its head. Romans 1:21-23 warns us about this misguided wisdom:
Because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
Today, many who consider themselves enlightened by worshiping the universe fall into this category. They replace the incorruptible image of God with a corruptible one, turning to the universe instead of the Creator.
The Call to Worship the One True God
It is time to return to worshiping the one true God. Praying to the universe is not only ineffective but also detracts from the glory and power that belongs to God alone. The universe, no matter how majestic, cannot replace the personal relationship we can have with our Heavenly Father. Only God has the power and glory to fulfill His plans for us.
Developing a Stronger Prayer Life
For those seeking to enhance their prayer life and deepen their relationship with Yahweh, it is essential to focus on prayer practices that align with biblical teachings. I invite you to explore further through my online course, “Teach Us to Pray.” This course is designed to help you improve your prayer life and foster a closer relationship with God. You can find the link in the description box below. I am confident that you will be amazed at what you will learn about prayer from this course.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the universe is a magnificent part of God’s creation, it should not become the object of our worship or the recipient of our prayers and we must stop praying to the universe. As believers, we are called to worship Yahweh, the Creator of all things. By focusing our prayers on God and seeking a deeper relationship with Him, we honor His divine nature and align ourselves with His will. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I am Joshua Infantado of Becoming Christians Academy, praying that God will bless us with His truth, grace, and peace. See you next time!
About the Author
Joshua Infantado is the founder of the Becoming Christians website and the Becoming Christians Academy, an online course. Since 2013, he has been writing Christian articles, and he launched his own YouTube channel. Joshua is deeply passionate about sharing the Word of God and supporting people in their Christian journey.