A common question from atheists is, "If God exists and wants us to know him, why wouldn't he just show himself to everyone?"

The Chief Answer

He knows everything and has limitless power. Hence, unlike mortals, he should never be doubted, because he always knows what he is doing. The book of Job in the Bible makes this point and others brilliantly.

Most of us will have met some very competent and trustworthy people in our lives, people we don't require an explanation from if we are waiting on them. We know that patience is the only appropriate response. Now, how much more does that apply to God than any man? Consider how each animal and plant plays its role in allowing life to continue in each area. Consider also the complexity of cells and physics. See how His knowledge and wisdom so far surpass our own. Have humility.

I know this can be a frustrating answer, but do you want to follow the truth or your own impulses?

Other Answers

Seek, and You Shall Find

Consider that God may want you to look for him, rather than simply having your demand for a miracle met. There is much scriptural evidence for God expecting you to seek him and His will. It is clear to Christians that seeking God is a moral thing to do, and ignoring him is evil.

The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts. (Psalm 10:4)

For more examples, see Acts 17:26–29, Deuteronomy 4:29, and Psalm 53:2.

The Grand Plan

God presumably reveals himself more plainly to some people and more subtly to others because he knows what we need best. After all, we need not fear that he does not have our best in mind. God shows no partiality, loving each person (Romans 2:11). It is not as though we are ever without a witness of His existence, whether that is nature, whose design points to God, our consciences, prophets, or arguments on the Internet.

A person can know God exists and still be disobedient and evil. After all, demons know he exists. With that in mind, revealing himself in power might not work out well for everyone's moral development or eternal life, especially if the more we are given, the more is expected of us, which is the case. Nevertheless, God will not leave us without help. We are told that through dreams, sickness, and other things, God will try to turn an evil man from his ways; e.g., Job's young friend Elihu says this in Job 33:12–30.

A Damaged Relationship

Consider that he may not speak directly to mankind in general and people in particular because of our poor behavior.

In the Bible, it is said that God drove Adam and Eve, the first people, out of the Garden of Eden, and an angel with a flaming sword prevented their return (Genesis 3). This shows how God does not tolerate our sin, and His separation from people is part of our punishment.

The End

Hopefully, this question no longer makes you feel justified in dismissing God, as though he owes you revelation and is disproven otherwise.