Introduction
Religion is an extended notion and has different meanings for people. With the growing population, new religious branches appeared, and the ancient ones were popularized, attracting more parishioners. Usually, a person follows the example of their parents when it comes to choosing what they want to believe in, but there are many exceptions in such situations. The angle of perception of faith impacts a person’s personality and creates specific principles, ideas, and morals.
Interpretation of Religion
Philosophers, scientists, and theologians present multiple definitions of religion. A theologian, Saint Augustine (1961), describes this notion as an instinct that reveals itself through a natural feature of a human that is given. He says that “a man is the Lord’s creature and must praise Him” because otherwise, a man cannot find peace and contentedness (Augustine, 1961).
This interpretation appeals to me as it is straight and unveiled. It does not blur the meaning of religion with a grudge philosophical analysis. I understand religion as a form of human existence that affects history. When a person is a believer in their faith, they keep moral values that do not allow them to reach anarchy and hedonism.
Being a believer means serving God and people, which results in kindness and a stable growth rate. My own experience proves that it is never too late to find yourself in the world of the Lord. My parents raised me as a religious Baptist who followed church norms and searched for peace. As an adult, I should choose the path in life that is the best and most understandable for me.
Non-denominational Christianity fulfills my spiritual needs and reveals the essence of God in a new light. Being a Christian shapes my views and perception of religion by directing me to the Holy Bible and demonstrating the true values of life. Now, I feel a closer presence of God in my life, which motivates me to praise Him through my attitude and service to others.
Conclusion
The chosen definition coincides with my understanding of religion. When a person cannot find their Lord, they will not be able to find peace and happiness in their life. Humans’ soul destiny is built through their beliefs. Parents raise their children according to their faith, but adult life usually changes individuals and makes them choose different paths. As a result, people’s perception of faith impacts their life principles and ideas, depending on the angle and interpretation of their religion.
Reference
Augustine (1961). Saint Augustine Confessions (R.S. Pine-Coffin, Trans.). Penguin Books. (Original work published 354-430 AD)