1. I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.

² Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

³ Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.

Prayer is often criticized as talking to yourself in the dark. Skeptics argue that prayer may feel comforting but accomplishes nothing beyond emotional relief. In this view prayer is no different than meditation or positive thinking. It calms anxiety but does not change reality. The question is blunt and uncomfortable. Does prayer actually do anything or is it just self soothing.

A popular claim in modern culture is that all gods are basically the same and all religions are just different paths up the same mountain. This idea sounds peaceful tolerant and inclusive. It avoids conflict and removes the uncomfortable idea that anyone could be wrong. But when examined closely the claim collapses under its own weight.

This question strikes at the heart of belief. If God is truly in control of everything then are humans actually free or are we just playing out a script already written. Many argue that divine control and human free will cannot coexist. Either God controls all things or humans make real choices. Both cannot be true. Or so it seems.

Across modern society more people are rejecting faith distancing themselves from church and openly declaring they no longer believe in God. This shift is often celebrated as progress or intellectual freedom. But the deeper question remains. Why are so many walking away from God now and what does Scripture say about it.