Fostering Humility and Mercy

Let us move beyond the confines of judgment and the focus on the imperfections of others, and instead foster a spirit of humility and mercy. It is crucial to live with integrity and without blame in our interactions. Embraced by the divine grace of God, we are called to mature in our faith and expand our reach, allowing His light to break through the darkness enveloping this world. "And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness." (Genesis 1:4)

Principle #1: Embracing Spiritual Dissatisfaction for Growth

Spiritual advancement requires recognizing a dissatisfaction with one’s current spiritual state. Release the shadows of the past and focus on the future, embarking on a path of continuous growth and renewal. This journey is marked by a longing for salvation from life’s trials and a commitment to pursue sacred righteousness—a haven of eternal comfort.

The crucifixion of Jesus resonates through the heavens and the earth; it is in faith that healing commences, in grace that the truth’s knowledge expands, and in mercy that a profound peace illuminates the soul’s depths, offering “peace beyond all understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5)

Principle #2: Casting Aside Obstacles to Progress

It is imperative to identify and discard any burdens or barriers that hinder your spiritual path. This process of decluttering encompasses the physical, emotional, and mental aspects, setting the stage for a more focused and joyful pursuit of happiness. As Jude suggests, things are not falling apart; they are falling into place. "Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints." (Jude 1:3)

The Quest for Authentic Happiness

Happiness thrives among those who are content and faithful. Surround yourself with individuals who embody a divine nature. Consider the Apostle Paul, who penned many New Testament books, a man who measured his worth not by comparison to others but through his devotion to Christ. Paul deemed his achievements trivial in light of the immense value of knowing Jesus. "Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ." Philippians 3:8

The Christian Mission: Serving with Love and Humility

As Christians, our mission is to serve others with love and humility, fearless before any part of creation, particularly humanity. In the presence of God, who sees all, we contrast sharply with the adversary, who aims to cloak us in darkness and hide the glory of God’s light. Darkness can only recognize itself, but those in the light can dispel the darkness, eternally reveling in the glow of truth. Victory in this spiritual struggle belongs solely to God, for only His light can eliminate the shadows we cast. "Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.  Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself." (Philippians 2:1-3)

The Pivotal Role of Grace

In the historical context of Christianity, grace is not merely the starting point—it is the essence. While some believe that God’s grace bridges the gap between our best efforts and His expectations, the reality is that grace is God’s loving and merciful gaze upon sinners. It is grace that enables our salvation through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. It is grace that allows the exchange of Christ’s righteousness for our sins—without reliance on our deeds. By faith, when we acknowledge Jesus as Lord, we stand perfected before the Father, now and forever (Hebrews 10:14). In response to this extraordinary grace, we engage in good works—not to earn God’s favor, but in grateful acknowledgment that we already possess it.