Graham: Superstitions should never take the place

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http://www.thetowntalk.com/article/20120508/LIFESTYLE/205080333?nclick_check=1

Dear Rev. Graham: My boss claims he's an atheist and doesn't believe
in God, yet he's one of the most superstitious people I've ever met.
How can you be a superstitious atheist? I thought atheists didn't
believe in higher spiritual powers. -- F.L.

Rev. Graham: A superstitious person believes he or she needs to avoid
some things because they're "unlucky" -- such as certain numbers or
dates, or certain activities or animals. Other things (they contend)
are "lucky" or can bring them good fortune. And you're right: It's not
logical for someone who denies the existence of God (or any spiritual
power) to be bound by superstition.

Sadly, superstitious people often become so absorbed by superstitions
that their lives are ruled by them. Instead of enjoying life, they
live in fear -- fear that they'll do something wrong and bring
misfortune on themselves. Others constantly pursue things they hope
will bring them good fortune -- usually in vain. They may even become
involved in occult practices, which can bring them into contact with
spiritual powers that are opposed to God.

The Bible tells us to avoid such things, however, and to trust our
lives into God's hands. God loves us and watches over us -- and once
we understand this and commit our lives to Christ, our superstitions
will flee. The prophet Isaiah condemned the people of his day because
they were "full of superstitions... and clasp hands with
pagans" (Isaiah 2:6).

I can't help but wonder how your boss would answer your question. He
might say (as some do) that the universe isn't ruled by active
spiritual powers, but by impersonal laws he's trying to follow. But in
reality he has let his superstitions take the place of God. Pray for
him, and ask God to help you be an example to him of Christ's love and
grace.

Send your queries to "My Answer," c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham
Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C.,
28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy
Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.