This lesson explores the deeply personal nature of faith and the challenges of a spiritual crisis. It emphasizes that questioning faith is a normal part of growth and that each individual must discern where they place their trust—whether in God, a religious institution, or spiritual mentors. True spiritual fulfillment comes from seeking and embracing a personal relationship with God while maintaining respect and love for others. Ultimately, faith is not about becoming something new, but about uncovering our true selves in Christ and supporting others on their journey.

Key Concepts

1. Understanding Personal Faith and Its Foundations: Each person places their faith in something—whether in God, religious institutions, traditions, or spiritual leaders. It is essential to identify what we place our faith in to ensure that our trust is in God rather than external sources that may change or fail.
2. Seeking God’s Love Beyond Human Institutions: God’s love is not confined to a single church or denomination. While faith communities can be valuable, true spiritual fulfillment comes from a direct and personal relationship with God. Learning to feel His love regardless of institutional acceptance is a key step in spiritual growth.
3. The Importance of Self-Discovery in Faith: We are not here to become something we are not, but rather to uncover and embrace our true, God-given selves. As we seek and follow divine guidance, we grow in faith and help others along their spiritual journeys, strengthening our unity in Christ.

A Personal Religion

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation God will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13

As we grow up, we generally look first to our families, than perhaps to our friends for spiritual guidance. Some get locked into the beliefs they are given, while others rebel, seeking opposite paths. There are merely two extremes, most people are more likely to fall somewhere between these two paths. That said, religion can be a very touchy subject for many people. And, unfortunately, some family or friends simply cannot tolerate any ideas that differ from their own paths. That doesn’t make their religious identities wrong, yet it doesn’t make them right either. Religion, spirituality, whatever we wish to call it, it is very personal.

Not Alone

The reality is that at some point, everyone goes through their own personal faith crisis. It feels as though you are alone, as if God has left or abandoned you. You have questions, but no one has the answers. It just feels overwhelming. Please know that you are not alone, and that your feelings, even fears, are perfectly normal.

While many rush out looking for answers, and many try to stop people from seeking those answers, I promise that I will not try to stop you. I am, however, going to ask you to slow down for just a moment. There is nothing wrong with a quest for answers. First though, lets take a breath and look for the questions.

Finding Our Own Truth

As we look at these questions, we may see things that seem as great truths to some, yet great blasphemies to others. Our families and friend ideals must be respected at all times, simply because they are our families, they are human beings and they deserving our understanding and respect.

At the same time, we must be true to ourselves and our soul’s needs as our understanding and relationship with God grows. This is the double edge sword, the fine line we walk. Yet if we are to obey the great commandment to love God and love our neighbors (yes, our families and friends are our neighbors) then this must be done if we truly desire to find peace and happiness.

Our True Selves

Personally, I do not believe that we are here to become something we were not. We are here to become what we truly are. Please keep this in mind as we begin this journey together. As you grow, I grow, and I grow, you grow. In this way we are one in Christ with all those around us.

By helping others grow, we ourselves reveal who this “true self” is as we grow in the Grace of Christ. Those that do not know Jesus can still grow in Him, as when the time comes, every knee shall bow and tongue confess that He is the Christ. At that time, those that have always been His will know Him, regardless of our different Earthly religions.

Discussion Questions

If you are taking this course independently, please use the quiz to turn in your answers. 

1. How does the concept of a personal faith journey align with the idea that we are not here to become something new, but to reveal our true selves? Provide examples of how personal experiences, challenges, or interactions with others have helped shape your spiritual understanding.
2. This lesson emphasizes the importance of respecting the religious beliefs of family and friends while staying true to our own spiritual journey. How can one navigate situations where personal spiritual growth conflicts with the expectations of loved ones?
3. The lesson acknowledges that everyone experiences a faith crisis at some point in life. What strategies or practices can help individuals endure these moments and emerge stronger in their spiritual journey?

Suggestions for Action

1. Write down your spiritual questions, doubts, and insights regularly. Keeping a journal allows you to track your personal growth and recognize how your faith evolves over time.
2. Engage in open conversations with people of different faiths or spiritual perspectives. Listening to their experiences without judgment can help you deepen your understanding and foster mutual respect.
3. Whether through a church, interfaith group, or online spiritual forum, surrounding yourself with individuals who support open exploration can provide encouragement and wisdom during challenging times.
4. Volunteer at local charities, support faith-based initiatives, or offer mentorship to those struggling with their spiritual path. Serving others strengthens both personal faith and communal bonds.
5. Whether through prayer, meditation, scripture study, or quiet reflection, creating a consistent practice will help ground you during times of doubt and provide clarity in your faith journey.

Final Thought/Meditation

God’s truth is not hidden from us, but revealed as we grow in love and understanding. In seeking our path, we must walk with both humility and confidence, knowing that our journey is uniquely ours, yet interconnected with all those around us. May we embrace the process, trust in divine guidance, and walk forward in faith, knowing we are never alone.