Life is complex and it’s often difficult to know the right moves to make. Many times it feels like we’re just guessing and hoping for the best. But while we cannot always control the outcome of our choices, we can let guiding principles direct our path forward.
Guiding principles serve as a type of lighthouse to navigate the dark and messy waters of life.
They don’t give us precise answers for every situation, but they remind us of what’s important.
These are the weighty matters we must consider in order to keep from getting lost or crashing into the shore.
While all our principles should be grounded in love and serve as a reflection of divine goodness, we each will likely hold a different combination of core principles.
For instance, one might choose to live his life based on the values of justice, mercy, and fidelity.
And for him, his daily choices are focused on treating others based on the dignity God has given them, showing compassion for those in need, and maintaining an unwavering commitment of loyalty in his relationships.
For another – care, courage, and wisdom might serve as guiding principles.
And here priority is given to promoting the welfare of others, brave and wholehearted action even in the face of danger, and making decisions aligned with the larger story of God.
Whatever the particular principles we name our core values serve as a solid starting point in navigating our path forward.
This helps us to stay grounded and live with our integrity even as we face many difficult decisions.
And we’re more prone to a life of regrets when we don’t – getting lost in the emotions of the moment and consistently blaming others for our poor choices.
Take the time to establish your guiding principles. This has countless benefits throughout your life and relationships.
Photo by Evgeni Tcherkasski on Unsplash
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