-- The quality of true religion is measured by the level of value we place in our beliefs systems, the depth of meaning we have absorbed, the intensity with which we devote to these beliefs and depths of meaning, and our progress toward idealistic spiritual living. What results in the application of these standards we have set for ourselves, is the transference of these standards to the way we view God.
-- Life can be a struggle and full of conflict, we deal best with struggles and conflicts with faith determination, love, loyalty, and progress. What we need be is more:
- emotionally active - not flighty
- imaginative - but practical
- realistic - but not dull or lusterless
- courageous - but not reckless
- prudent - but not cowardly
- sympathetic - but not too sentimental
- unique - but not too eccentric
- pious (dedication & reverence) - but not sanctimonious
- well-poised and unified - but not sloppy or too casual
-- Divine or spiritual insight is a gift from above, but it takes true wisdom and a gradual development of understanding to use this insight and expand your understanding of things. Experience is wisdom earned. Judgment equates with our spiritual progress and fruits of the faith. Judgment does not equate with what you don't know.
--How religion builds character:
Higher spiritual thinking brings us closer to the thoughts of God - this type of thinking can produce higher ethical standards and morals - versus succumbing to our animalistic or untamed tendencies. Making choices based on religious or spiritually minded beliefs causes a progression of trust toward God, increased confidence and wise courage, poise and peace. In spite of whether or not the walls around us look like they're about to come crashing down. The result of increasing religious or spiritually minded choice making is the peace that passes all understanding that Jesus speaks of.
