Your question reflects an important aspect of Christian theology, which involves understanding the nature of God and the concept of the Trinity. In Christianity, God is believed to be one divine being who exists in three distinct persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. This doctrine is known as the Trinity.
Here's a breakdown:
1. God the Father: The Father is the first person of the Trinity. He is understood as the Creator of the universe and the source of all life. When Christians refer to "God" in a general sense, they often mean God the Father.
2. Jesus Christ (God the Son): Jesus is believed to be the Son of God, who took on human form (incarnation) to save humanity from sin. Christians believe that Jesus is fully God and fully human. When Christians pray to Jesus, they are praying to God the Son.
3. The Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. He is believed to be the divine presence within believers, guiding, empowering, and comforting them.
So, when a Christian tells you to "pray to God" for guidance, they are referring to praying to God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), or God the Holy Spirit—depending on the context and the particular aspect of God's nature they are emphasizing. In essence, it's about communing with the one God who reveals Himself in three distinct persons.