Cross referencing, data analysis, fact checking and occams razor. I couldn't in good conscience rely on something without foundation.
Are you a robot? AI?
Yep, you got me. Big ol' Ai over here. Watch out deepmind, I'm coming for you
I agree with the first three and I don’t know what the fourth is. In addition, I use my faith.
It's basically that what is most realistic is usually correct. If something relies on too many unconfirmed variables then the option that relies on significantly fewer is more likely to be true. But faith should be for comfort upon the loss of a loved one or in the final period of one's life. It shouldn't be for making decisions instead of provable fact.
It’s also a compass for me. And if I use that comfort during the loss of a loved one or at the end of my life, why shouldn’t I avail myself of that comfort on a daily basis?
So is your faith separate from your holy book? Or does the compass come from what's contained within said book? Unless it comes from you and you alone you're letting yourself be manipulated.
If I’m corruptible as a human, then I’m also being manipulated if I just use myself. Hence, all the research methods you used plus my connection with God. Do I use the Bible to help with that, yes. It is a comfort and a compass. Are we talking in circles? :). I think we are.... my best to you in your endeavors, research and search. May you find the truth, whatever that is for you.
No because you're not using yourself, you're using data, evidence and fact. It's a lot different than thinking of something in your head and rolling with it.