Why don’t those who are following Jesus have the same despair as atheists and agnostics? After all, Christ followers disappoint themselves. Christ followers doubt their own abilities to handle life. What’s the difference? It’s all about the Other.

Those who follow Jesus (disciples) can look outside of themselves for help. If there really is a God then this God can actually intervene and provide guidance. In the Christian worldview, this God can forgive and disciples realize this and can bounce back from any disaster they bring upon themselves. If there is a God then this God’s power must be amazing (universe creator, after all). Therefore, to follow this God will bring hope and assurance rather than despair and hopelessness, because the results of faith are immersed in reality.