God: No magic required

[Whateverist]

But focusing on the doctrines is simply missing out on the possibility of perceiving the forest because of an obsession with the trees.

I can appreciate the sentiment behind what you've just said, but I question your sincerity. I found it interesting that you expressed these two thoughts because I think you've overlooked a detail that is common to both the Athletes motive and your own. The doctrines are what separates you from a Hindu, or a Muslim. If it weren't for the doctrine written in what you believe to be the holy gospel, you would have no basis for using the title "Christian".

I too appreciate the (bolded) sentiment.

Do you remember this guy? He is a cancer doctor and I think he comes at this not from the authority of any doctrine but from what he perceives to be the practical advantage of belief where healing is concerned.

I'm not so sure he isn't right about that. I think it is possible to some degree. I don't have conclusive evidence and he probably knows better what studies may show. But I believe placebo effect is well established and what is that if not mind over body?

Beyond that, consider any creative or sports activity. Beyond what talent you may have is the issue of your access to it. Rationality is probably as superfluous to healing as it is to peak athletic performance or inspired artistic achievement. There are plenty of activities where reason is neither relevant nor efficacious. Where such activities are concerned it can be advantageous to have the capacity to 'get out of the way'. When a xtian talks about "turning it all over to god" it may at least give him a way to let go of misapplying reason.

LW may speak for himself of course but I think there is at least something to what he says. Of course, belief isn't something you can force on yourself. I personally feel no desire to try because I think there are equally good ways to accomplish the same thing, ways which cost me less cognitive dissonance.