Can Christians follow stoic values?

[Anonymous]

I mean the stoicism mindset/values by the likes of Marcus Aurelius. Can someone help me go through each of those?: - Using Reason and Wisdom over Emotions to make decisions (how does divine revelation fit into this?) - Virtuous qualities (wisdom, courage, justice, temperance) necessary to be in a state of grace/salvation whilst in Christianity it is through God’s grace Jesus’ sacrifice that we are saved - Focus on my what you can control (thoughts actions) and accept with composure your fate. In Christianity, we are also called to surrender and trust in our destiny as written by God. There is purpose in everything God picks, whereas it’s more impersonal in stoicism. - Self-reliance in courage and in hardship. In Christianity, reliance on God’s strength. - Self-control through sheer reason and discipline, whilst Christians rely on the grace of the Holly’s spirit to overcome temptations. - Justice is rooted in natural law vs Godly moral law in Christianity. - the natural order (logos) is impersonal in stoicism whereas it is loving and personal in Christianity (logos=Christ) - Stoicism sees suffering as something to accept rationally, whereas in Christianity suffering can be redemptive and purposeful. Did I get this right? Any more insights?

 

[Articles]

We understand your interest in comparing Stoic values with Christian principles, and we commend you for seeking wisdom and guidance. Let's explore each point together:

Christians can appreciate the wisdom found in Stoic philosophy. They valued reason and wisdom and avoided extremes. These ideas align with biblical principles that discourage foolishness and reckless living. However, we must not use the wisodm of men rather the wisdom of God.

Therefore, be careful how you walk, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16 WEB

The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; but the foolish despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7 WEB

We cannot see God, but through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. God is the revealer of hidden mysteries. Without Him we cannot know His will and divine plan.

To reveal the mystery which hath been hid for ages and generations: but now hath been manifested to his saints. Colossians 1:26 WEB

A virtuous life is indeed important for Christians. Although the virtues you mentioned are valued in Stoicism, they are also listed in scripture. However, it is only through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ that we truly receive salvation and grace. Our virtues and actions do not save us, but they are a reflection of our faith and love for God.

Godly moral law is found in scripture and our conscience, and it is personal, rooted in the loving character of God.

For the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 WEB

Finally, let us remember that while Stoicism encourages acceptance of fate, Christians find purpose in knowing God's love for them in every circumstance, even in suffering. We find confidence and peace in trusting God's divine will for us in all things.

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 WEB

So let us take courage and remember the words of Joshua.

Have not I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed; for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

We'll pray for you now to be filled with the Holy Spirit's guidance, discernment, and wisdom, that you can seek God's will and trust Him with all your heart and mind.

Dear Heavenly Father, we lift up the person who submitted this request. Guide them in discerning Your will, that Your will be done in their life and not the will of man. Open their eyes to the truth of the gospel. That they may know Your loving kindness. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Thank you for your desire to explore these topics deeply. Keep studying the Word and seeking God's guidance.

 

[hostadmin]

We appreciate your in-depth exploration of Stoic values and their relation to Christian principles. It's like you're walking a path, seeking to understand the landscape around you. Let's continue this journey together.

In Stoicism, the concept of 'amor fati' - love of fate - encourages acceptance of what cannot be changed. As Christians, we too find peace in trusting God's will, but our trust is rooted in love and relationship, not just rational acceptance. We believe that God has a purpose in all things, even the difficult ones, and that His love for us is constant. As Paul writes in Romans 8:28, "We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose."

Another point you mentioned is the focus on what we can control - our thoughts and actions. In Christianity, we are also called to take responsibility for our actions and thoughts, but we also find freedom and grace in surrendering these to God. As it says in Philippians 4:6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

We're here to walk this path with you, to pray with you, and to learn together. Let's keep seeking God's wisdom and guidance, trusting that He will lead us on the right path. Let's pray.

Dear Heavenly Father, guide [original poster's name] in their exploration of these topics. Open their heart to receive Your wisdom and understanding. Help them to trust in Your love and purpose, even in the face of uncertainty. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit, that they may know Your will and follow it closely. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

 

[Ifgen]

I prayed for this in Jesus Name.

 

[The Encourager]

May God in Jesus' name answer your prayer request according to God's perfect love, wisdom, will, timing, grace, and mercy. Thank You Jesus!!!

Psalm 37:4: Delight yourself in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
Matthew 6:33: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. Thank You for loving me, Jesus. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. Bless me to know You in truth, fall in love with You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength and never fall out of love with You. Bless me to have an ever growing closer stronger, more intimate relationship with You. Bless me with the love, desire, strength, and the spirit of obedience to always delight myself in You, seek first Your kingdom, and Your righteousness. Help and strengthen me God to always respect and obey You. Bless me to trust You with all my heart, acknowledge You in all my ways, and lean not to my own understanding.

God heal me. Deliver and cleansed me of everything in my life that doesn't honor You. God bless me to prosper, walk in excellent health, and never stop growing in the grace and knowledge of Christ Jesus. Transform and renew my mind. Bless me with love, power, and a sound mind. Let the mind that is in Christ Jesus be in me. Bless me to have and operate with a God solution focused heart, mind, spirit, and attitude. Bless me to have a God Kingdom Culture Mentality. God be with me as a mighty warrior. Let no weapon formed against me prosper. Protect me from all the plans of my enemies and the plans of the enemy of my soul. God, all that I have asked of You, in this prayer, please do the same for the writer of the prayer, all those who love and care about me, and all those I love and care about. God, please forever honor this prayer over each of our lives. God Thank You. Amen, so be it by faith, and by faith, it is so. Prayer written by Encourager Linda Flagg, M.A., Board Certified Professional Christian Life Coach.

 

[Cinu]

Lord, we pray for this prayer and family for blessings healing and salvation. Heal and bless. May their lives be a praise and glory unto thee.
Come to the Lord's holy presence. Seek him with all your heart. Cling to his Word and meditate on it moment by moment by positive thoughts and joy in the heart (James 1:2-4), knowing that the Lord is good and to him be all the praise. Seek first God's kingdom and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Even though life may feel hard, the Lord's hand will be on you, and he will answer in his time. I am praying for you. Amen.

Some resources that might help.

Needs: - But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19(KJV)

Salvation: - So they said "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved you and your household." Acts 16:31(NKJV)

Healing: - But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5(NKJV)

Fulfillment by the Holy Spirit: - Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6(KJV)

Persecutions: - But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. Luke 6:27-28(KJV)

Help in Prayer

Dwelling and Thriving in God’s grace where everything happens for good (Romans 8:28)

Pray that the Lord may open the eyes of the nations affected by coronavirus (Specifically forces against God’s people)


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