How Am I Designed to Live?

This may be the most important question I can ask.

For me, the Bible answers it clearly:

I am designed to live in a constant state of love.

We are called to love our families, love the work we do, and love the people around us.

How am I NOT designed to live?

The answer is: in a state of not-love.

Worry. Fear. Anxiety. Lust. Envy. Pride. Control. Greed.

If I am going to reject these things, how do I practically do that?

For me:

I replace worry with appreciation for the small things.

I replace fear with integrity, truth, and acceptance.

I replace anxiety with surrendering myself to God’s plan.

I replace anger by throwing light at whatever upsets me, working hard to never wield the darkness.

I replace lust with genuine love and by intentionally avoiding temptation.

I replace envy by being genuinely happy for others when they succeed.

I confront pride with humility, including confessing when I am wrong.

I replace control with letting go.

I replace greed with giving.

I try to do all of these things in the name of true love.

Because love isn’t simply an emotion. It is a way of living.