Foundations of Life - Philosophy

What is Philosophy?

-the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline

-the study of the theoretical basis of a particular branch of knowledge or experience

-a theory or attitude held by a person or organization that acts as a guiding principle for behavior

The last one is particularly interesting to me. .....that acts as a guiding principle for behavior. Wow, what a statement. Unfortunately, there is something missing in this statement. It should say at the end or at the beginning for that matter - whose theory or attitude it is!

See, when we as human beings follow what we perceive as right and good, we are always left with a void. The void is God's Wisdom.
Our wisdom, perception and aspiring thoughts are not enough to keep this universe nor this earth in good shape.

I often heard people say: "Well, Germans are hard and harsh people....it may be so for some. But as I pondered this subject, I actually remembered something that I have seen Germans do and believe, something that  transcends all Nationalities and Cultures. I remember being intrigued by people who where striving to be different. Different from the status quo in whatever setting they found themselves. And often people would go to great length to establish that. Creating an environment that would help them to feel peaceful, tranquil and sometimes even looking for this extraordinary, exciting experience. Wearing certain clothes which totally separate from the norm, consuming only certain foods and drinks to stay fit and alert, listening to certain music to stay enlightened. Not that there is something wrong with any of it, but without God's wisdom it is still just a:
Philosophy: ..... guiding principle for behavior.

Philosophers (people) are often arguing their point of understanding, maybe because of a certain experience (as enlightened it may be) or shaping their view according to another person's view, out of admiration or respect. But once again, all this is a way to keep one's soul and heart protected, tranquil and stimulated

God has made us with a longing in our Soul, which David often speaks of in the Psalms.
There are people who are more interested in a lifestyle of beauty and tranquility. That often has something to do with which gifts and talents one is equipped. Musicians and artists are more likely to dream than an accountant. Not that an accountant doesn't dream, but they are more relating to logical matters.

This longing in our soul is something we are struggling with until we know why, who created it. God, in His infinite wisdom has given us a longing to connect. Not with just anything and anybody - but with HIM.

Often though when the philosophy of a person is not centered around God's will and ways.....it can become a tool for the enemy to lie to us about how and with what to connect. Therefore people will connect to just about anything and anybody to find harmony.

Harmony can only be found in Christ. Because He alone is our connection to God.
...so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Rom. 12:5
We are created to be ONE BODY OF CHRIST. Meaning that we need to connect to Him to connect to each other.
.....that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. Eph.2:12

Meaning without God's philosophy (law and commandments) we are being aliens and strangers. Left to our own devices....which I have elaborated on at the beginning.
....that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love Eph. 3:17

being rooted and grounded in love is the a goal for the church. What we are actually striving for as strangers and aliens to God's kingdom is looking for THAT love.....looking to be connected and fulfilled. Looking to give our bodies, minds and souls the good things we are longing for.

Yes one can achieve a lot of good things in a life time. But what matters is the eternal value, the eternal destination. |We cannot take any of our earthly philosophies, things with us. Only eternally lasting values described in the Bible can be taken and achieved. This  soul of ours belongs to God and God alone!

With this new year starting - 2017, why not change our philosophies of life into the philosophies of God? Why not exchange our struggles to achieve what we are looking for, to the light yoke which God promises in His word. .....For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Matthew 11:30.

This is a thought not just for unbelievers but also for those who have struggled to find meaning and fulfillment in life after accepting Christ and being born again. Often we stop somewhere on the path of God, or make a wrong turn. But the wonderful news is: He forgives us and continues to lead us in the right direction. All we have to do is ask and repent! Turn away from our own philosophies. We can even ask for His help to ask Him.....isn't that wonderful. His Grace will enable us to do what is right in God's eyes.

Leaving you today with a prayer for all reading this to find the philosophy of God for their life's and a very Happy New Year......until next time.