Though Christianity primarily looks to God for guidance, other cultures and religions offer meaningful lessons. Can you strengthen your relationship with the Lord by listening to them?
Here are a few insights taken from other cultures across the world.
1. Life Is for Living
The afterlife is a foundational part of Christianity, so it might be challenging to picture your spiritual journey without it. In Judaism, the afterlife is secondary to time on Earth. Instead of viewing life as a temporary stepping stone to eternal salvation, they believe it is precious.
Many Christians overlook their Earthly purpose in favor of progressing toward everlasting life. Remember, you can strengthen your relationship with the Lord with meaningful, considerate actions. The belief that every day is an opportunity can empower your journey.
2. Go to God for Guidance
When the Polynesians settled in Hawaii, they brought polytheistic beliefs with them. They represented their deities with Tiki masks, placing them in their homes to protect against harm, provide comfort or bring good fortune. Each mask embodies a unique trait or deity.
In Polynesian culture, tiki connects humans to the natural world. They recognize they can’t control the sea, soil, water or volcanoes and must rely on a high power. While your prayers and practices differ from theirs, you share the same core beliefs.
God is the only one who can truly guide you. While relying on others and seeking counsel in church is okay, you should always look to Him for guidance. The Polynesians’ lesson should remind you to navigate your life through prayer. Remember, the Lord has a path for you.
3. Live in the Present
In Hinduism, yoga is a lifelong personal journey of devotion. It is a kind of meditation where you seek to achieve physical and mental balance. While you pose and relax your Earthly body, you unburden your immortal soul.
Yoga is an extremely spiritual practice that grounds you in the present. It teaches you to become an active participant in God’s plan rather than exist passively. Once you move from doing to being, you strengthen your devotion to the Lord.
Although Christianity doesn’t formally practice meditation, you can apply its principles in your everyday life. You can take notice of your place in God’s plan, acknowledging your body as a mere vessel for your immortal soul.
4. Earthly Actions Matter
Many religions say humans are in a constant search for enlightenment. Buddhists believe you can find it in rebirth. To them, karma is the deciding factor for how prosperous your next life will be — and that deliberate, generous deeds are the only way to receive good karma.
As a Christian, the idea of reincarnation probably sounds ridiculous — just consider it for another moment. At their core, karma and rebirth prioritize selflessness, much like Christianity does. Consider it a lesson to be intentionally kind and improve the world for future generations.
5. Embrace God’s Plan
According to Taoism, “yang” represents being and “yin” represents lack. It states these primordial forces brought the universe into existence and are essential to life. The people who follow this Chinese philosophy believe a cosmic force binds all things.
The idea of “going with the flow” plays a big role in Taoism. Taoists believe in “wu wei,” which means to allow things out of your control to happen. Sound familiar? God’s plan directs your life, guiding you down a predetermined path.
Right now, the world is an uncertain place — the Lord is the only certainty. Just as He had a hand in creating you, He will shepherd you to the afterlife. When life feels confusing and complicated, remember you’re in the hands of a higher power.
6. Do No Harm
Jainism is a strict belief system with ancient roots. Its followers believe nonviolence — a practice known as ahimsa — is the key to enlightenment. They think plants, animals and nonliving things possess souls and should be treated with dignity and respect.
Even if you go out of your way to be patient and charitable, know that the world will always benefit from a little extra kindness. Remember, Earth and all its inhabitants are God’s creation — honoring them will strengthen your relationship with Him.
Take the Time to Listen to Others’ Lessons
Religion is a beautiful thing. Even though others don’t believe in the one true God in the same way you do, you’re more alike than you might think — they devote themselves to a higher power and want the best for their communities. If you take the time to listen to their teachings, you can gain valuable wisdom to strengthen your relationship with the Lord.
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