This new approach to personal development brought about through “The Secret” and the Law of Attraction seem fascinating. If you are like me, however, you are wondering how these new teachings fit into your religious beliefs. At first I was concerned. For example, if I could get whatever I wanted stepping right into my life through positive thoughts and feelings, what about all of the less than mentally healthy people out there attracting victims into theirs?! And does God just give everything we desire if we believe it? Or is there a purpose to trials and suffering?

My purpose here is to share what I have come to discover after months of reading everything I could find on the subject of the law of attraction as compared to my traditional Christian beliefs.

First of all, what about all of those things I (you) sincerely wanted, and even prayed for that never materialized? Well, according to religious beliefs-God saw a higher, better purpose. According to the Law of Attraction, your unconscious beliefs may have been getting in the way, or your desires were not in alignment with our true self. It took me a while to realize that these beliefs or principles are in perfect sync with each other. If your desires come from your ego, you either wont get what you desire, or when you do, you will be greatly disappointed.

Second, “fake it till you make it” is taught by the new luminaries. I wasn’t sure I could buy into that. However, on second glance, it really just means to feel happy NOW. This coincides directly with the teaching of gratitude. Be grateful for what you DO have, use your talents and abilities for good, and you will receive more good. This new approach to ageless principles is actually pretty cool!

Faith is the third aspect here. We’ve all heard of it, and some practice it daily. Though the approach or terminology may be different as of late, it is still the same. “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve.” Can anyone not relate to this teaching? Truly trust, and feel hope, joy, love and gratitude now, and your desires are brought to you more quickly.

Last, but not least, the whole goal in this journey is to find joy. Joy looks different for everyone. Someone may live all alone in a shack and yet find ways to really enjoy daily living. Some want loads of money, some just need friends…You understand. Learning to find joy and meaning along the way is really what it’s all about. If you can find joy and happiness no matter what the external circumstances, you are already there. Ironically, that is probably when you will receive more of the physical “stuff” you desire. Both avenues of thought teach this. It’s kind of nice that new aged “luminaries” are really just bringing more attention to timeless principles.

However you see it…God/universe, gratitude/positive thought, talents/source energy, Child of God/part of the immense universe…truth is and always will be truth. Surprisingly refreshing.