I don't discount that my outlook may change thats why I ask. I like the sound of "you have a role to play" makes me feel quite important!
I'd just like to know, in a nutshell, what the consequences will be if I remain an unbeliever. If I'm doomed then it seems a bit harsh as I care for my wife and family and work hard and don't do any harm to anyone.
Surely that puts me on an equal footing even if I am atheist?
you are important ..
and if I can serve you in anyway .. just ask ..
mankind is not some toy God created .. no more then is your family to you ..
His relation to us, is no different then your's to your own family ..
as the father in your house, you should have a pretty good understanding of God ..
as a teenager, I tested my father's will ..
and He, because He loved me (and wanted the best for me in my life) ..
let me be rebellious to His upbringing He taught ..
and as such .. He said .. then go .. and do things your way ..
so I left .. and what a ride .. but ..
when my eyes opened, I realized he was right, and he did seek what was best for me ..
because what I did think was, ended up as empty ..
so I am a prodigal son .. and the love of a father must let you go ..
but that love .. always is there ..
love is indeed the strongest element in the universe ..
the answer to your question is this ..
the same as the prodigal son never returning ..
you will be bankrupt, alone, and full of regrets ..
the prodigal son in the parable had no family of his own ..
but when you do, then your decisions you make should not be made on only your behalf ..
God Bless you ..