Faith

Building A Meaningful Life, How Faith and Service Lead To Lasting Success

by Brother Carlton 
12/18/24
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Did you know that developing a philosophy of life is essential if you want a systematic approach to being more effective in dealing with people and achieving success in your career or calling? It's true. To get more out of life, you must first put more into it. This begins with building meaningful relationships and helping others.

A principle I’ve learned is this: if you don’t help enough people get what they want, you can’t expect to get what you want. Think about it—we’re all connected to people. Jesus gave us the golden rule: “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.” If you desire help and cooperation from others, it’s only fair to offer the same in return. Life works best as a win-win situation.

Of course, there may be times when you feel like you’re giving and giving but not getting anything in return. Don’t let that discourage you—it’s often temporary. Pray about it. God knows your needs, wants, and desires. Let these be sanctified, meaning set apart for His glory. Romans 11:36 reminds us, “For from Him, through Him, and to Him are all things.” This verse is packed with profound wisdom: God is the source, creator, and sovereign ruler of the universe. He knows all things.

We are not autonomous beings. That’s the great lie of humanistic thinking—the belief that man can live independently from his Creator. Some even go so far as to deny God’s existence and elevate themselves as their own authority. Yet, true authority comes from God, the supreme ruler of the universe.

We’d all be better off if we spent more time reading the Bible. This year, I’ve challenged myself to read the New Testament twice and at least 100 books. But it’s not just about reading—it’s about meditating on and applying the truths within. As John Donne, the poet, wrote, “No man is an island.” We are interconnected, and our lives are part of a greater whole. This unity reflects God’s design—the perfect harmony of one God in three persons.

Jesus Christ embodies the fullness of God. He said, “If you’ve seen me, you’ve seen the Father.” His resurrection is the cornerstone of Christianity. Without it, faith would be meaningless. Jesus said, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it up in three days,” referring to His body. His victory over death has eternal implications for us all.

Returning to the need for a philosophy of life, we must acknowledge that history is filled with mankind’s failures. Any success we achieve is by God’s grace, and He deserves the glory. Humility, love, and faith are essential. Christ demonstrated the greatest love on the cross, giving His life for those who believe in Him. John 3:36 says, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”

Excuses like division within Christianity won’t hold up when you stand before God. Jesus invites us: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Are you tired of your sin? Do you feel the weight of it? Don’t try to fix it on your own. Christ is the perfect sacrifice—the Lamb of God who takes away sin. Humble yourself, cry out for His mercy, and receive His grace.

When you do, you’ll become a new creation in Christ. Old things will pass away, and all things will become new, including your relationship with God and your eternal future. You’ll have an inheritance in heaven that nothing on earth can compare to.

May the Lord bless you richly as you pursue growth, purpose, and faith. Keep striving, and let God work in you to transform your life for His glory.

Brother Carlton ministers the gospel to the Los Angeles area. Formerly a Hollywood actor (SAG member) and property cleanup expert, he now spends most of his time studying the scriptures, writing articles, hymns, and poems, and doing street preaching. See all his videos on YouTube Brother Carlton.