Y’all know we love asking questions. So in this episode we’re gonna to get into the importance of asking questions to deepen one’s faith. That might seem counterintuitive to what we’ve been taught because so much of conservative religious upbringing is to NOT ask questions. We explain how asking questions is crucial because it helps individuals clarify what is important to them and what they want to achieve. We also talk about one of our favorite practices (journaling!) and we have 7 questions you can ask yourself right now to start deepening your faith.
Takeaways
- Asking questions is an important part of deepening one’s faith and clarifying what is important to them.
- Writing down or speaking out loud one’s thoughts and beliefs can help in gaining clarity and making commitments.
- Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection and tracking personal growth.
- The seven questions discussed in the episode can be used to deepen one’s faith and explore different aspects of spirituality.Feeling close to God or the sacred is a personal and unique experience, and it’s important to reflect on specific moments, details, and emotions associated with those experiences.
- Understanding what closeness means to you and what aspects of those experiences were meaningful can help guide your spiritual journey and bring depth to your faith life.
- Curiosity plays a crucial role in deepening your religious tradition. Being curious about theological tenets, practices, or learning more about specific aspects can keep you engaged and open to growth.
- Identifying what you want more of in your faith life requires specificity and clarity. Breaking down your desires into actionable steps and defining when and how you will engage in those practices is essential.
- Recognizing and addressing barriers that have kept you from deepening your faith is crucial. This may involve external factors, such as lack of access or community, as well as internal obstacles, such as fear or uncertainty.
- Taking one specific action step at a time can move you closer to your spiritual goals. Scheduling and planning these steps, even in the face of resistance or uncertainty, increases the likelihood of follow-through.
- Being part of a supportive community and seeking accountability can provide encouragement and guidance in your spiritual journe
Chapters
(04:21) The Power of Journaling for Self-Reflection
(08:50) Question: When Have You Felt Closest to God?
(15:13) Question: Moments of Wanting to Deepen Your Faith
(20:51) Question: Continuing the Journey of Deepening Your Faith
(25:24) Reflecting on Moments of Closeness to God
(32:05) Cultivating Curiosity in Religious Traditions
(35:06) Identifying Desires for a Deeper Faith Life
(37:49) The Value of Community and Accountability in Spiritual Growth
Resources:
- Join Spiritual Study Hall to get access to all QueerTheology resources
- Join the Sanctuary Collective Community
If you want to support the Patreon and help keep the podcast up and running, you can learn more and pledge your support at patreon.com/queertheology.
EPISODE TRANSCRIPT