Since the beginning of recorded history in every culture throughout the world, mankind has believed in the idea of supreme beings. These have been gods or a God viewed as the ultimate, supernatural force to be worshipped and held in awe. Belief in God or a supreme being is a way to explain and accept the unknown. It also helps to answer hard questions, and to provide a sense of security and safety in challenging or uncertain times.
Different religions hold different beliefs about a supreme being.
Earlier religions of ancient Egypt and Greece have given way to more modern religions such as Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism and others. While concepts may vary by culture and religion, most center on an all-powerful supreme being who created and rules the universe. In every religion, people communicate with God or another supreme being through some form of prayer, either alone or in groups of like-minded people. Because God is believed to be the supreme being able to create life and restore health, prayers often ask God for help, understanding, wisdom, or strength in dealing with life's most difficult problems. Prayer may be in words or thoughts.