It is not simply a matter of balancing our good deeds with our sins, nor of accumulating spiritual trophies. The relationship with faith and the Holy Spirit is wonderful precisely because each individual experiences it in a unique way, and it is God who will ultimately judge our feelings and his presence in our hearts.
“But in your great mercy you did not put an end to them or abandon them, for you are a gracious and merciful God.” - Nehemiah 9:31
As beings created by the Lord, we are naturally social, with an innate need to produce and establish connections. Building bonds with our surroundings and deepening our spirit are fundamental parts of our development. When engaging in conversations or dialogues, it is wise to listen to those who question us.
Besides being courteous, we must interact coherently, respecting the grammatical rules of the linguistic system of the country we live in. In this way, both the words we emit and those we receive will be understood and assimilated correctly, shaping our minds throughout our lives.
“As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him—you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says: ‘See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.’ Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, ‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.’” 1 Peter 2:4-7
Consider, for example, the difference between being prudent and being sensible. A prudent person speaks with care, justice, and caution, while a sensible person acts rationally, guided by common sense.
In biblical passages, we find teachings about both qualities, showing a broader sense of these definitions.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” - Deuteronomy 31:6
The ways in which we follow Jesus as God's children can vary significantly. It is important to discern between sensible and insensible people. Some seek to appear devout by attending mass and pretending to be religious without being truly deserving of the Heavenly Father's mercy.
In contrast, those who are prudent have a true sense of faith, listening to and practicing the Holy Word at every moment of their lives.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.” Romans 12:16
We encounter people who pride themselves on receiving special praise for openly expressing their faith, expecting favors in God's name. We all know someone with these characteristics, who begins their prayers proclaiming how devout they are, seeking special treatment from the Heavenly Father and feeding an ego that only they understand.
We must be prudent with ourselves, taking care of both our thoughts and our actions, always practicing the true essence of Christian faith.