Faith is not only a system of beliefs and religious principles, but also a life practice that encompasses every aspect of our daily lives. As believers, we seek to grow spiritually and deepen our connection with God by applying our faith in the real world.
Spiritual growth begins with recognizing the importance of the spiritual dimension of our lives. We seek to realize that our faith is not limited to just attending services at church, but permeates all areas of our being. It is a journey of seeking a deep understanding of divine wisdom and applying that wisdom to our daily lives.
One of the key aspects of spiritual growth is prayer. Prayer is our direct connection with God, a moment when we open ourselves to Him, expressing our joys, anxieties, gratitude and requests. Regular prayer helps us to strengthen our connection with God and to feel His presence in our lives.
In addition, reading the Scriptures, the Bible, is an integral part of our spiritual growth. In the Bible we find a rich source of spiritual wisdom and counsel. Daily reading and study of God’s Word helps us to better understand His will and apply it to our lives.
Practicing patience, mercy and forgiveness is another important aspect of our spiritual growth. We face many trials and temptations in our daily lives, and our faith helps us to find the strength to overcome them. Being patient in difficult situations, showing mercy to those around us, and forgiving those who hurt us are all ways in which our faith is manifested in our daily lives.
Faith also affects our relationships with others. We strive to be a blessing to those around us, to serve them, and to help those who need our support. Through our faith, we try to build harmonious and loving relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and the community at large.
Spiritual growth and practices also include participation in worship services, discipleship with spiritual directors, study of the traditions and customs of the Orthodox Church, and active service in church communities.
Faith in daily life is an integral part of our existence. When we recognize God in all aspects of our lives and seek to put our beliefs into action, we enrich our spiritual lives and find deep meaning and purpose.