if the universe is your God, every time you commune with nature or meditate, you're 'praying'. And God is a part of every decision by definition. In trying to save a relationship, I start with me. What is it worth to me, what am I willing to give? Humility, love, my willingness to try to see the problem from their point of view.

Good luck.

for different things. This may be a good friend but not someone who is open to discussing solutions to problems as their position will likely always be "prayer." It is best to talk things out with people who are more pragmatic. It may not be intended as such, but religion can be a stone wall for anything the person does not wish to discuss. I doubt they will change.

http://www.jainworld.com/literature/story25.htm

None of us is equipped to determine the nature of the universe. While math and measurement are getting better, they're still limited by our ability to perceive what they're telling us.

this Jainism spiritual outlook and practice. Must study it more.

I'm not talking religious text and leaving the word GOD out.

I am suggesting speak in a more general terms that sound spiritual but things you believe in.

Ie, we can't control everything in our lives. lessons to be learned are part of growth. there are hills and valleys.... ect you get the jibe, right?

Things that they will pick up on as lessons they may read in the bible. but are things you may believe.

I'm not particularly religious but, I have my own beliefs on how the universe works that are similar to what you've described.

When dealing with someone who wears their religion on their sleeve, I choose to let them fill in the blanks on their own, once I guide them in the direction I want.

From the information you've provided your common ground is "prayer". Who you pray to and what that means to you, shouldn't even come up if you open with "I've prayed on this, and I was led to...". Let them fill in the blanks.

Life is rarely as simple as that but, I find that this gets me past the God dilemma without violating my own beliefs.

I'm a UU who believes if there was a JC - he was a human being. No super natural need be applied.

This leaves me at odds with quite a few PDR / Trinity focused people. I lean towards other UUs for universe/spirit q and a's.

Because I can only agree to disagree with atheists to evangelicals of all stripes - Including those who follow Judaism and Islam - I find it easier to say it, bless it, and send itTo the unverse. I don't normally share my spiritual beliefs at DU because they are equaliy offensive to Atheists and thos who follow strict Judeo Christian faiths.

But you asked how one deals . . .

This is a classic negotiation strategy. You build the bond between you and the other person by showing what you share as people.

Start out with the spiritual similarities, and don't go into the differences unless it is absolutely called for. Spiritual language can be ambiguous and words can have multiple meanings. Use it in a way you think this person will understand it, and you can have your own understanding.

all to do with religion or spirituality? Not understanding why anyone's spirituality should interfere with working things out with another, regardless of their beliefs.
Whenever I need an interesting take on negotiating with someone who might blindside or gaslight me, I consult Captain Awkward. She may have covered a similar situation already. If not, she and her commenters are always a good read.
Good luck resolving this!

answers through quiet meditation and reflection on a specific problem/situation. In situations where that is not possible, 'instinct' hasn't failed me yet.