A few years ago I stumbled upon a scripture in the New Testament that really struck a chord. The Apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4:8 (NIV):
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
biblegateway.com
In today’s complex world filled with anger, anxiety, and uncertainty, this verse reminded me that Christians have a source of hope even during the most difficult of times.
The Bible and the teachings of Jesus Christ provide us with moral guidance centered around love, compassion, kindness, and other core Christian values that can anchor us when storms rage all around.
What Are Christian Values?
Christian values originate from the Bible which Christians believe is the Word of God. These principles serve as moral compasses that guide a follower of Christ’s character, decisions, and way of living.
Some examples of key Christian values include:
- Love: Having genuine care and concern for others (1 John 4:7-8).
- Faith: Complete trust and confidence in God (Hebrews 11:1).
- Hope: Expectant desire for God’s promises (Romans 15:13).
- Forgiveness: Forgive others’ offenses (Ephesians 4:32).
- Compassion: Showing empathy and kindness to those in need (Colossians 3:12).
- Justice: Doing what is right, just and fair (Micah 6:8).
- Service: Using one’s talents to help others (1 Peter 4:10).
These values reflect the very nature of God and are brought to life through the greatest commandment given by Jesus Christ:
37 “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)
biblegateway.com
When Christians embrace these values, they experience peace, meaning, and joy. They become shining lights that provide hope to others even during trying times.
Why Christian Values Matter Today
Flicking through news channels or scrolling social media, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the negativity around us – political turmoil, natural disasters, civil unrest, and more recently, a global pandemic.
In the midst of the storm, the relevance and importance of Christian values stand out brightly as a beacon of hope.
They remind us that:
- There is good in this world, despite appearances.
- With God’s help, we can choose compassion over criticism.
- Loving one another is far more rewarding than harboring hatred.
- Serving others unites us across manmade divides.
We see examples of Christian values in action throughout history and still today:
- Jesus healed the sick and fed the hungry even when he was tired and hungry himself. His great compassion knew no bounds.
- Corrie ten Boom forgave the very Nazi soldiers that sent her family to concentration camps during World War 2. She overcame cruelty with Christian kindness.
- Closer to home, I have a neighbor who routinely helps widows and single mothers with groceries or if they need something fixed in their homes. He is always lending them a helping hand expecting nothing in return.
These everyday stories remind us that living out Christian values brightens up not just our own lives but also the lives of those around us.
And if we all did the same, wouldn’t the world be a kinder, more hopeful place even in difficult times?
Why You Should Incorporate Christian Values In Your Life
As children, we’re taught common values like honesty, kindness, and respect.
Christian values take these a step further. They turn these principles into action by providing meaning and motivation rooted in God’s unconditional love.
I’ve explored already how living these values blesses others. Here are some ways that embracing them will enrich your own life:
- Develops character and resilience: Turning the other cheek when slighted or loving those different from us takes strength. Building godly character muscles helps withstand life’s temptations and trials. As the Bible verse says, when tested we will become mature and complete, not lacking anything (James 1:2-4).
- Guides major life decisions – Important choices like who to marry, where to work, or what home to buy can be confusing. Christian values centered around godly wisdom and truth provide guardrails to make wise decisions aligned with God’s will. As the Bible says, if any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God (James 1:5).
- Provides comfort and peace – When a loved one passes on or we lose a job, Christian values remind us that our hope rests secure in eternity. God promises to be with us to the very end; we can take comfort in his enveloping peace no matter the circumstance. As the Bible says, do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, present your requests to God (Philippians 4:6).
- Creates community and friendships – Practicing Christian values together builds camaraderie and understanding. It gives us a shared purpose larger than our individual lives. Community outreaches like feeding the homeless not only help those in need but also unite us with other Christians. As the Bible says, as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another (Proverbs 27:17).
- Leads to fulfillment and joy – The deepest satisfactions in life come not from money or fame but from purpose and meaning. Living out Christian values fills our lives with divine purpose rooted in serving God and loving others. We overflow with the joy and blessing that comes from giving of ourselves. As Jesus said, it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).
The Bible reminds us that practicing Christian values allows us to lead lives filled with meaning and joy. In doing so, we spread light and hope to others even on the darkest of days.
Practical Tips To Incorporate Christian Values In Your Life
- Start with prayer: Ask God to reveal areas of your character and lifestyle that need to be realigned with Christian values. Ask for wisdom and strength to walk them out daily.
- Study the Bible: God’s word is filled with parables, commandments, and encouragement to live out Christian values. As you understand them better, you can apply them more effectively. Bible Apps like YouVersion and small study groups make Bible reading practical and fun!
- Participate in church: Sermons, small groups and serving teams provide accountability and opportunity to grow spiritually with fellow Christians. As Hebrews 10:25 (NIV) says, let us not neglect meeting together.
- Serve others: Look for everyday opportunities to live out your faith through action – help a neighbor, volunteer in your community, or donate to charity. As Galatians 5:13 (NIV) encourages, serve one another humbly in love.
- Share your faith – As relationships deepen, share how God has worked in your life. Your story could spark spiritual conversations. As 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) guides be prepared to give reason for the hope you have.
- Teach your children – Instill Christian values like kindness and integrity in your kids through modeling behavior and discussing real-life examples. Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) says, train up a child in the way he should go.
Starting today, I encourage you to take small steps to practice Christian values. Pray, study the Bible, and lean on other Christians. Incorporate love and compassion into your days.
As you walk out godly principles, you sow seeds of light and hope in the lives you touch. And doing so returns even greater blessing and meaning to your own life.
Key Takeaways: Finding Hope in Trying Times Through Christian Values
- Christian values originating from the Bible provide moral guidance centered around love and compassion. They anchor us during difficult times.
- Practicing Christian values allows us to lead more meaningful, joyful, and purpose-driven lives.
- Living out these principles not only blesses us but also lets us spread light and hope to those around us.
- We can incorporate Christian values by praying, studying the Bible, participating in church, serving others, sharing our faith, and teaching our children.
- Small, consistent steps to walk out Christian values sow seeds of hope in our sphere of influence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need to be perfect to live out Christian values?
A. No! The Bible says all have fallen short (Romans 3:23). God values progress not perfection as you continually realign your life. Keep taking the next steps, ask God for help, and don’t be discouraged.
Q. How do I teach Christian values to my children?
A. Teaching Christian values starts with modeling them yourself – your kids will mimic your attitudes and behaviors more than just your words.
Talk to them about showing kindness, being responsible, and making wise choices. Share Bible stories that reinforce godly principles.
Discuss Christian values and their real-life applications during everyday moments – at the dinner table, while riding in the car, etc.
Make practicing Christian values a natural part of your family culture through routines like saying grace before meals and serving others together.
Be patient – character development takes time, especially when they are young. Ask God for wisdom and discernment to balance grace and godly discipline as your children grow.
Q. Why is community important for practicing Christian values?
A. Trying to live out Christian values alone can be challenging. We may lack accountability, understanding, or opportunities to put them into practice.
The community provides support and encouragement – others who will pray for us, guide us when values conflict, and join us in serving together.
The Bible calls this ‘fellowship’ and says that as Christians we are different parts of one body (1 Corinthians 12:12). We need each other to fully walk out God’s will for our lives.
Q. What if no one else around me shares my Christian values?
A. It can be disheartening when loved ones don’t share our passion for Christian values. When faced with non-believers or compromising situations, turn to scripture for guidance.
Set healthy boundaries while continuing to model God’s love. Your consistency and care may spark spiritual conversations.
1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) encourages you to always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
If possible, build friendships with other Christians who support your spiritual journey.
