Q: When I get into conversations with people who are searching for the truth and meaning in life, they often ask tough questions like, "How can anyone really know that God exists, or if Jesus is who you say He is--'the way, the truth, and the life'?" How do you answer that?

A lot of people who say they don't believe in God aren't really atheists. Many of them simply haven't made a decision because they haven't had a real chance to know the truth. But even if they have doubts or questions that need answering before they will be convinced, if they're sincere and really want the answers, if they truly want to know God, He will show them the truth and reveal Himself to them. In fact, there's a promise to that effect in the Bible, from Jesus' own mouth: "Everyone who asks [of God] receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened" (Matthew 7:8).

If they even admit the possibility that God is real and that Jesus is who He said He is, then they're giving God a chance; there's a tiny spark of faith, and God will honor that faith by letting them see and feel and know the proof. Perhaps not immediately, but in some way, at some time.

So the next time you're asked that question, try answering like this: "You can put God in a test tube and prove He exists--and you are the test tube. Just put God in you and see what happens. If you'll just sincerely pray for God to reveal Himself, He will--through His Son, Jesus."

Most people who say they don't believe in God also say they don't know how to pray, but just the fact that you're there talking to them about this is proof that they've been getting through to God and He's trying to give them the answers they've been looking for. Show, quote, or even paraphrase for them Jesus' promise in Revelation 3:20: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him." Then offer to lead them in a simple prayer--something like the following:

Dear God, I don't know You, but I want to. And Jesus, I want to know You too. I open the door to my heart and invite You in, Jesus. Please forgive me for all the wrongs I have done, give me Your gifts of love and eternal life, and help me get to know You. Amen.

Once they've prayed to receive Jesus, He will prove Himself to them by helping them experience His love, answering their prayers, and bringing about positive changes in their lives.