People who live by their faith share these 9 common practices

Faith – it’s a powerful force that guides many of us in our daily lives. And for those who truly live by their faith, there are certain practices that seem to come as naturally as breathing.

These individuals are not just going through the motions. Rather, they’re actively engaging with their faith in ways that enrich their lives and those around them.

Whether you’re a person of faith curious about common practices or you’re just interested in understanding the core habits of faith-filled individuals, this article is for you.

Let’s dive into the nine common practices shared by people who live authentically by their faith. And remember, it’s not about religious superiority or contest, but understanding and learning from shared experiences.

1) Daily Devotion

Living by faith isn’t a part-time job. It requires dedication, commitment, and daily devotion.

People who truly live by their faith make time in their everyday schedule for prayer, meditation, or reflection. This is not just a checkbox to tick off their daily to-do list, but a meaningful practice that helps them connect with their spiritual beliefs.

The practice of daily devotion can take different forms across various faiths. For some, it might be prayer or meditation. For others, it could be reading religious texts or engaging in acts of kindness.

This practice allows them to keep their faith at the forefront of their minds throughout the day. It’s a reminder of the principles they choose to live by and offers them a moment of peace amidst the chaos of everyday life.

So whether you’re a person of faith or someone exploring spiritual practices, consider incorporating a form of daily devotion into your routine. This shared practice can provide a grounding influence and reinforce your connection to your beliefs.

2) Acts of Kindness

In my own journey of faith, one practice that has profoundly impacted me is the act of kindness.

People who live by their faith understand the potential impact of even the smallest act of kindness. It’s not about grand gestures or public recognition. Instead, it’s about making a positive difference in someone else’s life, no matter how small.

I remember a time when I was going through a particularly rough patch. Life had thrown me some curveballs, and I was struggling to find my footing. It was then that a friend, who is deeply rooted in her faith, reached out to me.

She didn’t do anything grand or dramatic. She simply brought me a home-cooked meal and spent the evening with me, listening to my worries and offering comforting words. That simple act of kindness meant the world to me at that moment.

Being kind to others, especially when they least expect it, is a powerful way of living out one’s faith. It not only uplifts others but also enriches our own spiritual journey. This is why acts of kindness are a common practice among those who live by their faith.

3) Community Involvement

For those who live by their faith, the sense of community often extends beyond their immediate circle to the larger community around them. This idea of interconnectedness is deeply rooted in many religious teachings.

Take Buddhism for instance, where the concept of Sangha – or community – is one of the Three Jewels, alongside Buddha and Dharma. This highlights the significance of community in spiritual growth and enlightenment.

People who live their faith are often found volunteering at local charities, participating in community events, or lending a hand to a neighbor in need. They see service to others as an expression of their faith and a way to make a meaningful difference in their communities.

Whether it’s helping at a food bank, tutoring children, or supporting environmental initiatives, community involvement is a shared practice among people who live by their faith. It’s about making the world a better place, one act at a time.

4) Regular Reflection

Reflection is a vital practice for those who live by their faith. It’s about taking time to evaluate their actions, thoughts, and feelings in the light of their spiritual beliefs.

This isn’t about dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about the future. Rather, it’s a way to cultivate self-awareness, learn from experiences, and grow spiritually.

Some people might keep a journal to document their thoughts and reflections. Others may prefer quiet contemplation in a peaceful environment. The method isn’t as important as the consistent practice of thoughtful reflection.

Regular reflection helps maintain a clear conscience and aligns actions with beliefs. It ensures that faith isn’t just a concept but a guiding principle in everyday life.

5) Seeking Wisdom

People who live by their faith are often on a perpetual quest for wisdom. They believe in the importance of constantly learning and growing in their spiritual journey.

This pursuit of wisdom often involves studying spiritual texts, attending religious teachings, or engaging in thoughtful discussions with others. It’s about expanding their understanding and deepening their connection with their faith.

But seeking wisdom isn’t limited to religious teachings. It can also involve learning from experiences, observing nature, or exploring different perspectives. The goal is to gain insights that can guide them in living a fulfilling life grounded in their faith.

Living by faith, for these individuals, is about being open-minded, humble, and willing to learn. After all, wisdom is not about knowing all the answers but about seeking them.

6) Embracing Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a cornerstone of many faiths, and those who truly live by their faith strive to practice it regularly.

There’s something incredibly powerful about forgiving someone who has wronged us. It can be difficult, sure, but it’s also liberating and healing. It allows us to let go of the pain and resentment that can weigh heavy on our hearts.

Those living by their faith often see forgiveness not as a one-time act, but as a way of life. They understand that everyone makes mistakes, and that holding onto anger or resentment only hinders spiritual growth.

But it’s important to remember: forgiveness is not about forgetting the wrong or condoning the act. It’s about releasing the burden of bitterness and finding peace within ourselves.

Embracing forgiveness can be a transformative practice in our journey of faith, fostering deeper compassion, empathy and inner peace.

7) Staying Hopeful

Life can sometimes throw us curveballs, casting shadows of doubt and despair. During such times, it’s easy to lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel. But one common practice among people who live by their faith is maintaining a sense of hope.

I recall a time when I was faced with a tough situation. It felt like everything was falling apart, and I was losing my grip on things. But in those dark times, what kept me going was the flicker of hope that things would get better.

Hope is a powerful force that can pull us through the toughest of times. It’s about believing in the promise of a better tomorrow, even when today seems bleak. It’s about trusting in the journey, even when the path is unclear.

Whether it’s finding hope in a higher power, in the strength of their spirit, or in the goodness of people, those who live by their faith hold onto hope as an anchor amidst life’s storms. It’s this unwavering sense of hope that fuels their resilience and keeps their spirit alive.

8) Practicing Gratitude

One common practice among people who live by their faith is expressing gratitude. They understand that gratitude is more than just saying ‘thank you’. It’s a state of mind, a way of viewing the world.

These individuals are not just thankful for the big, obvious blessings in their lives. They also find joy and gratitude in the small, everyday things – a warm cup of coffee, a beautiful sunset, or a kind word from a stranger.

Practicing gratitude helps them to focus on the positive aspects of life, even when things aren’t going perfectly. It’s a means to celebrate the present moment and to appreciate life with all its ups and downs.

By acknowledging the good in their lives and expressing thanks for it, they cultivate a sense of contentment and peace, strengthening their spiritual connection.

9) Living Authentically

At the heart of every faith-filled life is authenticity. This means aligning actions with beliefs, and living out the principles of their faith not just in private, but in their interactions with the world.

People who live by their faith understand that it’s not about putting on a show or trying to appear ‘holier-than-thou’. Instead, it’s about being true to themselves and their beliefs, even when it’s difficult or unpopular.

They strive to be consistent in their words and actions, whether they’re in a place of worship, at work, or at home. They see each moment as an opportunity to express their faith through their actions.

This commitment to authenticity is what makes their faith more than just a belief. It’s a way of life. And it’s this authenticity that truly sets them apart.

Final Thoughts

On the journey of faith, it’s important to remember that everyone’s path is unique. The practices shared here are common among many who live by their faith, but there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.

These practices – devotion, kindness, involvement in the community, reflection, seeking wisdom, forgiveness, hope, gratitude, and authenticity – are not just boxes to check off. They’re ways of engaging with the world and our inner selves.

Faith is a deeply personal journey. It’s about finding what resonates with you, what helps you grow spiritually, and what brings you closer to your beliefs.

As renowned theologian Martin Luther once said, “To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” The same could be said for these practices in the lives of those living by their faith.

So whether you identify with all of these practices or just a few, the goal is to find what helps you live authentically by your faith. It’s about cultivating your spiritual growth in a way that aligns with your beliefs and values.

In the end, it’s not about perfection but progress. It’s about the journey, not the destination. And perhaps most importantly, it’s about living a life that feels true to you.