How do you deal with someone who has had something happen and they keep talking about “God’s plan”? I have a friend who is going through some tough times and it looks like they won’t be able to achieve what they wanted but keep placing it on God. I think it’s a coping mechanism for them but it still is rubbing me wrong. I am trying to stay supportive which basically just entails me keeping my mouth shut.
This is the way to go. You aren’t under an obligation to change someone’s beliefs. If they reach out to you, be a support and offer help. Be a good example of an atheist by being a good friend.
If you really feel the need to push, something non confrontational like the street epistemology approach might work well.