This is a prompt that I have to write a 600-900 word response on. I have some ideas of what to talk about/address in regards to the prompt below such as answering if I believe in a supreme Being, then talking about how going to church has influenced my belief in a supreme being and also how some events in my life have influenced my belief of a supreme being, and then talking about how my perspective on this issue has changed a few times because of certain experiences. But I do not think that will be enough to get at least 600 points. Can anybody provide me with some other things I can address in regards to the prompt below? Thank you.

Do you believe in a Supreme Being or a higher power? How did you arrive at your beliefs regarding a deity? Have you always held the same beliefs on this issue, or has your perspective changed over time?

Goodness, that's a lot to consider in merely 600-900 words! I think if you follow the questions, including how you arrived at the idea that there is a Supreme Being, and how those ideas have changed, and why, you should have plenty. Was it just because your family and church TOLD you to believe in God? Or did you come to that conclusion on your own? How does your belief differ from what you were told in church or catechism or Sunday School or whatever your faith calls it? Does it differ from what your parents seem to believe? How and why? There are no right or wrong answers, but this is a good opportunity to explore your own ideas.

Thank you Reed for your ideas. That helps

And adding the questions...

how has your understanding changed in time?
How have your friends, and others, changed your understandings?
Is is understandings about God, or beliefs in God which matter?
What is it in the world that is against God? Is it in us?
Do we all have the same God?

You cannot do this in 900 words, but there is much to write about.

In addition to the ideas you have already mentioned, there are several other aspects you can address in your response to the prompt:

1. Personal experiences: Share specific events or moments in your life that have shaped your belief in a Supreme Being or higher power. These experiences could be positive, such as feeling the presence of something greater during moments of serenity or achieving personal goals. Alternatively, you could discuss challenging times when you sought guidance or found solace in your faith.

2. Religious upbringing: Explore the role your religious upbringing played in shaping your beliefs. Reflect on how your family, community, or religious leaders influenced your understanding of a Supreme Being and the reasons behind your belief system. Discuss any rituals or practices that were part of your upbringing and how they have impacted your beliefs.

3. Philosophy and reasoning: Consider philosophical arguments and logical reasoning that have contributed to your belief or lack thereof in a Supreme Being. Discuss concepts like the cosmological argument (explanation of the existence of the universe), teleological argument (existence of design and purpose), or moral argument (existence of an absolute moral law). Explain how these arguments have influenced your perspective.

4. Study and education: Mention any scholarly or academic pursuits that have influenced your beliefs. Have you studied religion, philosophy, or theology? Share how these areas of study have exposed you to different perspectives, challenged your beliefs, or provided you with a deeper understanding of the concept of a Supreme Being.

5. Interactions with believers and non-believers: Discuss how engaging in conversations or debates with individuals who hold different beliefs has impacted your own perspective. Explain how exposure to diverse viewpoints, whether it be through discussions with friends, attending interfaith events, or engaging in online forums, has influenced your understanding of a Supreme Being. This can include moments of doubt, introspection, or the reinforcement of your existing beliefs.

6. Scientific and rational explanations: Consider any scientific or rational explanations that have influenced your belief in a Supreme Being. Are you swayed by evolutionary theory, the laws of physics, or the concept of naturalism? Reflect on how these scientific or logical explanations have shaped your understanding of a higher power and whether they align or conflict with your beliefs.

7. Historical and cultural context: Take into account the historical and cultural context in which your beliefs have developed. How has your belief in a Supreme Being been influenced by the dominant religion or spirituality in your society? Discuss how cultural practices, historical events, or religious teachings prevalent in your community have shaped your perspective.

By exploring these additional aspects, you can expand your response to the prompt and provide a well-rounded view of your beliefs in a Supreme Being or higher power. Remember to explain your thought process, provide anecdotes or evidence when possible, and express how your perspective has changed or been strengthened over time.