The Path from Spirituality to God: Understanding the Role of “Necessary Evils” in Our Journey to Faith

Throughout life, many people find themselves drawn to various forms of spirituality that offer meaning, guidance, and a sense of self-discovery. Practices like astrology, tarot cards, and other forms of mysticism have often served as stepping stones in the search for purpose and deeper understanding of life. These practices, while ultimately leading away from God’s truth, can sometimes play a role in guiding people to a deeper hunger for the divine. They serve as “necessary evils,” a term used here not to justify or celebrate them, but to acknowledge that God can work even through our misguided pursuits to bring us closer to Him.

For many, the journey from spirituality rooted in things like zodiac signs and tarot readings to a relationship with God involves recognizing the emptiness and limitations of these practices. They offer temporary insights or a fleeting sense of control but ultimately leave people unfulfilled, still searching for deeper truth. It is often through the failure of these pursuits that individuals become open to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. This chapter explores how the path through alternative spiritual practices can be a “necessary evil” that awakens a deeper need for God, along with other examples of how God can use even the wrong turns in life to draw us closer to Him.

The Allure of Spirituality: A Temporary Substitute for God

Astrology, tarot, and similar spiritual practices appeal to a deep human need for meaning, direction, and control. In a world full of uncertainty and confusion, people often turn to these practices as a way to make sense of their lives and to gain some measure of control over the future. These spiritual practices promise to reveal hidden truths about oneself, one’s purpose, and one’s destiny. They offer guidance in moments of uncertainty and provide a framework for understanding life’s challenges.

However, these practices are rooted in self-righteousness. They encourage individuals to place their trust in cosmic forces, inanimate cards, or even their own ability to interpret the universe’s signals. The danger of this path is that it fosters the illusion that we can save ourselves, that by understanding our zodiac chart or deciphering the messages of tarot, we can navigate life without God. 

While these practices offer temporary comfort, they are ultimately spiritually hollow. They lead people to rely on something other than God’s truth, creating a cycle of dependency on fleeting interpretations and incomplete answers. However, for some, this very hollowness becomes a catalyst for seeking deeper spiritual truth. The realization that these practices cannot truly satisfy the soul’s longing becomes a pivotal moment, what can be seen as a “necessary evil” that ultimately points people toward God.

The Role of Necessary Evils in the Journey to Faith

The concept of “necessary evil” refers to experiences or practices that, while inherently wrong or misguided, play a role in shaping our spiritual growth. These are moments or choices in life that God uses to awaken us to the truth, even when those choices were far from His will. Romans 8:28 reminds us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This verse highlights the truth that God can use even our missteps, our flawed pursuits, and our mistakes for His purposes.

For many people, the journey through alternative spirituality serves this purpose. By engaging with astrology or tarot, they are exposed to the concept of the spiritual realm, of forces beyond the material world. These experiences may foster a desire for deeper meaning, but eventually, these practices are revealed to be inadequate. Their inability to offer lasting peace or answers leads to a moment of crisis, a realization that there must be something more. This is often where people become open to the Holy Spirit, recognizing that only God can provide the fulfillment they are searching for.

The Bible is full of examples where God used the wrong paths that people took to ultimately bring them closer to Him. Take the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32. The son leaves his father’s house, squanders his inheritance, and falls into a life of sin and degradation. Yet, it is through his experience of hitting rock bottom that he recognizes his need to return to his father’s house. The necessary evil of his reckless living becomes the turning point that brings him back to where he belongs. In the same way, for many people, the practice of alternative spirituality serves as a form of wandering, which eventually leads them back to God.

The Limitations of Self-Righteous Spirituality

The draw of alternative spiritual practices lies in their promise of empowerment. Whether it’s through astrology’s insight into personality traits or tarot’s supposed ability to predict the future, these practices suggest that one can control their destiny through knowledge and self-awareness. This feeds into the human desire for self-righteousness, the belief that we can save ourselves through our own understanding, effort, or insight.

Yet, this self-righteousness is fundamentally flawed. Tarot readings and astrological charts often present a view of life that perpetuates the idea that things are not good as they are and that a more fulfilling worldly future awaits if certain steps are taken or certain obstacles are overcome. This narrative can be particularly enticing when it comes to areas of relationships and finances, where uncertainty and desire for improvement often cause people to seek guidance.

Tarot and astrology are built on the assumption that life is in a state of flux, and that personal fulfillment, love, or wealth can be attained if one can correctly navigate the signs or symbols presented. While they often claim to offer spiritual insight, they frequently work by creating a sense of dissatisfaction with the present and promise a better future that is often vague and dependent on factors outside one’s control, such as planetary alignments or mystical forces.

This mindset promotes a cycle of continual seeking, looking outside of oneself for guidance, validation, or a prediction of future happiness, when in fact, the foundational message of Scripture offers a far different view of life, contentment, and how to face challenges related to relationships and finances.

The Problem: Tarot and Astrology Promote Discontent

Both tarot and astrology often emphasize that the present moment is either not ideal or that something is missing. For example:

Relationships: Tarot readings might suggest that a relationship is lacking or that someone’s “true love” is on the horizon, but only if they make a certain decision or let go of a current relationship. Astrology might warn of rocky periods in relationships because of a planetary retrograde, implying that harmony will only come later when the stars are more favorably aligned.

Finances: Tarot may predict upcoming financial challenges, while astrology might suggest that prosperity is linked to specific astrological cycles, promoting the idea that the individual must wait for the “right” timing or that wealth is just out of reach due to unfavorable planetary movements.

In both cases, the idea is that contentment is conditional and based on external factors. The person is encouraged to believe that things aren’t good as they are and that happiness, fulfillment, or financial security is always just over the next horizon, dependent on forces outside their control. This leads to a sense of perpetual discontent and dependency on future events or mystical practices.

The False Promises: A Better Future, Just Out of Reach

Tarot and astrology often offer vague promises of a better future, but these promises are conditional and based on changing or uncertain circumstances. For example:

In Relationships: A tarot reading might suggest that true love will come once a certain emotional block is removed, or that someone is “meant” to come into the person’s life according to an astrological chart. These promises offer temporary hope but often leave individuals feeling unsatisfied or disappointed when those vague predictions don’t materialize as expected.

In Finances: Astrology might predict that financial improvement is tied to planetary movements or that wealth is linked to a particular astrological sign’s fortunes. Tarot might show a promising card related to success, only to later suggest an obstacle that creates uncertainty.

In both cases, the individual is encouraged to believe that the future holds something better, but that better future is always dependent on external, mystical forces. This can lead people to place their hope in forces they cannot control, rather than in their own actions or in a relationship with God.

The Solution: Contentment and Hope Rooted in Scripture

In contrast to the discontent and false promises perpetuated by tarot and astrology, Scripture teaches that true contentment and peace come not from external circumstances or mystical predictions but from a relationship with God and trust in His provision. The Bible offers a clear, consistent message of where true fulfillment and security lie.

Contentment in the Present

The Bible teaches us that true contentment comes not from changing circumstances, but from trusting in God’s plan and being satisfied with what we have been given in the present.

– Philippians 4:11-13 (NIV):

  > “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Here, the Apostle Paul teaches that contentment is not tied to what we have or lack, but is a learned mindset based on trust in God. Unlike tarot and astrology, which imply that happiness is contingent on future events, Scripture teaches that peace and contentment can be found now, through Christ.

God’s Providence in Relationships

While tarot and astrology often suggest that love and relationships are dictated by fate or outside forces, Scripture emphasizes that God is deeply involved in our relationships, guiding us in love, patience, and kindness.

– 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV):

  > “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Biblical love is rooted in selflessness and endurance, not in waiting for the right “fate” or alignment of stars. The Bible reminds us that successful relationships are not based on external signs but on embodying God’s love and patience within ourselves and our relationships.

Trusting God for Provision in Finances

Tarot and astrology often promote the idea that financial success is something that will come or go depending on outside factors. The Bible, however, teaches us to trust God as our provider and to live wisely, understanding that financial security is ultimately in His hands.

– Matthew 6:31-33 (NIV):

  > “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Rather than seeking guidance from external forces about when or how our financial needs will be met, Jesus teaches that we are to trust God’s provision. Our focus should be on seeking His kingdom, and He will take care of the rest. This contrasts sharply with the uncertainty and anxiety promoted by tarot or astrological forecasts, which often suggest that wealth or prosperity is fleeting and outside of our control.

Hope for the Future Rooted in God’s Promises

Whereas tarot and astrology offer vague promises of a better future based on changing signs or mystical forces, the Bible offers a sure hope rooted in God’s unchanging nature and promises.

– Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV):

  > “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

The future promised by God is one of peace, hope, and prosperity, not in the sense of material wealth or worldly success, but in the deep, abiding knowledge that we are loved, cared for, and part of His eternal plan. This promise is far more secure than the vague predictions of tarot and astrology, which depend on forces outside of God’s will.

The Difference: Truth vs. Illusion

Ultimately, tarot and astrology create a cycle of dissatisfaction by encouraging individuals to seek answers outside of themselves and outside of God. They offer an illusion of control or insight while actually promoting dependency on forces that cannot guarantee anything. In contrast, Scripture offers an unshakeable foundation based on God’s sovereignty, love, and provision. The Bible invites us to rest in the knowledge that God has already provided for us in every area, relationships, finances, and our future.

– Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV):

  > “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Tarot and astrology tell us that contentment and security are just out of reach and that they depend on external forces. Scripture, however, teaches that true peace and fulfillment come from trusting in God’s wisdom and plan for our lives.

No amount of astrological charts or tarot readings can address the deepest needs of the soul. These practices may provide temporary guidance, but they cannot offer true transformation, peace, or salvation. They are tools of human pride, allowing people to believe that they can navigate life without submitting to God’s authority.

Jeremiah 17:5 warns, “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord.” When we rely on our own understanding, or on the supposed wisdom of zodiac signs or tarot cards, we are drawing strength from ourselves rather than from God. This path is ultimately a dead end, leading us away from the life-giving relationship with God that we are meant to have. But in recognizing the limitations of these practices, we become open to the possibility that there is something greater, something beyond the self.

Embracing the Holy Spirit: The End of the Search

The turning point in the journey from alternative spirituality to faith in God comes when individuals realize that they cannot save themselves. The self-righteousness that fueled their belief in astrology or tarot is exposed as insufficient, and the Holy Spirit begins to work in their hearts. This is the moment of surrender, when people stop trying to control their destiny through human means and open themselves to God’s transformative power.

Jesus offers a powerful invitation in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” The pursuit of meaning through alternative spirituality often leaves people weary and burdened. They have spent so much time and energy trying to find answers, only to discover that they are still searching. But when they turn to Jesus, they find the rest they have been seeking all along.

The Holy Spirit is the true guide, the one who leads us into all truth (John 16:13). While astrology and tarot offer fleeting insights, the Holy Spirit provides eternal wisdom. Through the Spirit, we gain a deep, lasting relationship with God, and we are given the strength and guidance to navigate life’s challenges with peace and assurance.

Other Examples of Necessary Evils in the Spiritual Journey

Astrology and tarot are just one example of a “necessary evil” that can lead people to God. There are countless other experiences in life that, though negative or misguided, serve as turning points for spiritual growth. Some people find God through addiction, after years of being trapped in destructive behaviors. Others may have followed a path of materialism, only to find that wealth and success leave them feeling empty, which drives them to seek something greater.

The Apostle Paul himself is an example of this dynamic. Before his conversion, Paul (then Saul) persecuted Christians, believing he was fulfilling a righteous cause. Yet, it was through this dark path that he had his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-19). His misguided zeal became the very thing that led him to the truth, as he was transformed by the power of God and became one of the greatest apostles in history.

In each of these cases, the “necessary evil” is not something to be celebrated or sought after, but it is something that God uses for good. In His mercy, God can take even the darkest moments of our lives and use them to draw us closer to Him. This is the mystery of grace, that even in our failures, mistakes, and wrong turns, God is at work, guiding us back to the path He has set for us.

Conclusion: From False Spirituality to True Faith

The journey from spirituality rooted in zodiac signs, tarot cards, and self-righteousness to a relationship with God is often marked by a realization: these practices, while offering temporary comfort or guidance, cannot fulfill the deeper longing of the soul. They are a “necessary evil” in the sense that they serve as part of the journey, awakening a desire for deeper truth. But it is only when we surrender to God’s Spirit that we find the peace, wisdom, and salvation that we have been searching for all along.

In God’s hands, even the wrong turns we take can become part of His redemptive plan. As we let go of self-righteousness and open ourselves to the Holy Spirit, we are transformed, no longer relying on ourselves for guidance but trusting fully in the God who created us and knows the path we are meant to walk. 

The allure of tarot and astrology often lies in their promise of hope for a better future or insight into life’s uncertainties, especially in relationships and finances. Yet, these practices create discontent by implying that fulfillment is always in the future and dependent on mystical forces. In contrast, Scripture teaches that true contentment, love, and provision are found in a relationship with God. We are invited to trust in His goodness, live out His love, and rest in His promises for the present and the future.

Instead of seeking meaning and direction from astrology or tarot, which often leads to confusion and unmet expectations, we are called to trust in the unchanging truth of God’s Word and His steadfast promises. Only in Him can we find true peace, love, and hope for the future.