Today, many would question the validity of defending any dogma of an ancient religion, much less a dogma that cannot be examined by the scientific method like the nature of God. Our age is full of dogmatic uncertainty and tolerance for all kinds of competing, conflicting ideas. Pluralism is the watchword. Critical thought as applied to religious and philosophical ideas is the victim. Many seek refuge in what can only be proven scientifically.
Personal experience is often the authority with all the things that can shape it.
Family heritage, supernatural experiences, personal preference all play their parts. But the search for truth is out of fashion, perhaps because it is easy to assume it is an impossible, impractical quest. I want to challenge this and instead state that your thoughts and beliefs about God are the most important thoughts and beliefs you will have in your life. Your beliefs about God or your lack of them shape every area of your life. Your standard of morality is determined by them.