“Let’s start at the very beginning. It’s a very good place to start[1].” What is a principle? According to the Oxford English Dictionary a principle is defined as “a fundamental truth or law; motive force.” Isn’t that a great definition? A truth that causes a person, an organization, anything-to move. Think action! Principles are often action oriented, truths that involve action.

Why are principles important? Principles are what we strive to base our lives after. When we follow correct principles we are much happier and happy people lead to happy lives, which lead to happy communities, a happy nation, a happy world. Why? Well, because we are seeking out that which is good[2]. When we follow eternal principles (truths that are true in all situations) we are saying that we want to live an honest, productive life that blesses our homes & all others. A principled life leads to true joy because when we follow truth (principles) the heavens cannot help but bless us & when we live a life of truth we find an inner peace, joy & resolve we wouldn’t otherwise find. Essentially light (eternal principles) builds off of light and the more principles we follow the more we find. The opposite is true too. (Think equal and opposite principle). The more darkness we seek after the more darkness we find. Which one do you want? Light or darkness?

What I like to call eternal principles go naturally along with living a principled life. Isn’t that what we are searching for? True joy, peace, resolve? How about courage, faithfulness, service, friendship, the list goes on. Think of all that is good.

For example, I have a friend who works 12-14 hours a day to promote the cause of liberty, another principle. What does she gain from this? Well, true friends, loss of sleep, battles over what is right, truth. I’d venture to say that she is uncomfortable often but in her discomfort she seeks the principle of freedom. She is willing to feel pain so that she can find true joy for herself, her family, friends, community, nation, and world. What about you? What principles are you seeking out today?

 

 

 

 

 

[1] Sound of Music

[2] Galatians 5:22-23