A multi-course meal or a la carte?

Imagine having the freedom to choose between ordering a single item or indulging in a delightful four-course meal. You’d most likely opt for the full experience, right? By embracing all four courses, you satisfy your every need and leave with a truly fulfilling and satisfying experience.

You need to put your Christian faith in this same perspective. The reason that this is important is that the more that you apply your faith to your personal and work environment, the less stressful and more successful you will be. This is not accomplished by taking the a la carte approach to your spiritual growth. I think of those who attend church just on Christmas and Easter. They are only getting an appetizer. Putting your Christian faith in the right perspective can truly transform your life and bring about incredible results. By integrating your faith into every aspect of your life, including both personal and work environments, you create a harmonious balance that leads to less stress and greater success. It’s important to remember that true growth comes from consistently nurturing and developing our spirituality. Taking an a la carte approach is like having just an appetizer when there’s a whole feast waiting for you. So, embrace the fullness of your faith every day. Allow it to guide you in making decisions, treating others with kindness and compassion, finding strength during challenges, and seeking wisdom from God’s word. As you do so, watch as the blessings flow abundantly into all areas of your life – bringing peace, joy, fulfillment, and success beyond measure!

I have observed that some individuals display great faithfulness to God even without attending church regularly, while others attend religiously but fail to apply the principles in their daily lives. This is why I strongly suggest embracing a whole-hearted commitment to faith and seeking a complete spiritual experience. Let’s integrate our beliefs fully into every aspect of our lives for a truly fulfilling journey. Our church offers many adult Sunday school class options. It is the opportunity to study God’s word and how it can be applied to our lives. This gives us the ability to share our concerns and doubts and have the support of other Christians to get us through those times. We can share how God has influenced our own lives and how others should put more faith in how He will get them through their struggles.

Having fellow Christians to have fellowship with, helps to keep us accountable for our actions. If we slip, they will help reel us back into how we should live. You need this regular conversation with those with the same faith to help develop your faith to a higher level. The more that we are conscientiously aware of how we interact with others, both personally and in business, in being true to our religious values, the more successful we will be.

Another course that you need is to have regular Bible study and prayer.  There are plenty of devotionals available to guide you if needed.  Sometimes, I have a topic on my mind and I research Bible verses that discuss that topic so that I can get better direction on what God has for me in that area of my life.  Add to this studying an ongoing conversation with God and you have another great course to your meal.  It’s not just about praying in the morning and before bed, but rather having spontaneous conversations with God throughout the day. When our communication is continuous, we can tap into His guidance and experience greater clarity and strength to thrive in all aspects of life.

I consider the application of your faith in how you give back to your friends, family, and community to be your dessert. It is the last part of the meal. It is where you put what you learned and believe in into practice. All of us have talents and strengths and need to use those talents to show God’s love to others. There are many opportunities within your church community to volunteer your services. It should not stop there. Your faith in God should show through your actions at work as well.

I do not believe that you can apply your faith to its potential by taking the ala carte approach to your walk with Christ. You need to order and enjoy the four-course meal. You will not have any regrets. What are you currently doing in your life to expand your religious experience?