PRINCIPLES

If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do? – Psalm 11:3

Having attended to the “Kingdom-Firsts,” we now turn to other biblical “Principles” for Kingdom Living. In a general sense, principle refers to the operative cause, source or origin of anything; that from which a thing proceeds. The word ‘Principle’ as used in scriptures is translated as “elements” and “rudiments,” referring to the elementary knowledge of Christian truth or doctrine (Heb.5:12; 6:1). Here, I define Principles as the basic foundations upon which the structures of life are built; life’s fundamentals; the grounds which support life’s assertions and actions. “If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psa.11:3). A house must be built on solid foundations if it is to last; the same applies to our lives. God is the Source of eternal principles: “The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations” (Psa.33:11).

In order for you to build a healthy, strong and effective life, you must spend time laying solid foundations. This is done by clarifying your life’s Purpose, your reason for being – why you exist and what you are supposed to invest your lifetime in; and adopting godly values and applying proven positive principles that would ensure that your purpose is not defeated. God set laws and principles in motion to order and govern all creation. Our willingness to spend time to learn and apply the principles or laws of life (natural & spiritual) is the key determinant for fulfilment and success. Principles govern all dimensions of life and destiny. They are guidelines for human conduct that are proven to have enduring value; for example, the eternal principles of Faith, Hope, and Love, which I consider to be the three Cornerstones of Christianity (1Cor.13:13).

Principles are the pillars of life; the deep, fundamental, non-negotiable truths of life that have universal application. They are never shifty. Principles are like lighthouses to ships; they cannot be broken. In reality, we cannot break the law; we can only break ourselves against the law! Thomas Jefferson said: “In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock”! None of life’s realities happen by chance. The degree to which people recognize and live in harmony with life’s principles, determines their success, survival, and stability or disintegration and destruction. Principles guide Change, Communication, Development, Effectiveness, Excellence, Growth, Fruitfulness, Followership, Leadership, Marriage, Relationships, Prayers, Progress, Prosperity, Success, the Supernatural, Teams, Warfare, Well-being, Work, and Winning.

God calls us to live principled lives. Principles apply to individuals, marriages, families, and organizations of every kind. Stephen R. Covey wrote: “People can’t live with change if there’s not a changeless core inside them.” Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.” As good as plans are, principles must precede plans. Plans are more effective when undergirded by principles. Someone said: “The intelligent have plans; the wise have principles”! The remainder of this month, we shall meditate on twelve Ps – 12 Positive Principles of life, including: Purpose, Priority, Planning, Pro-activity, Preparation, Potential, Perspective, Passion, Pursuit, Process, Persistence, and Partnership. As you meditate along, please keep this question in mind: Upon what principles is my life being built?