By Pastor Cornelius Ayodeji “SmilingPreacher” Bella
🌿 Introduction
Every believer must live by principles — not by pressure.
In a world driven by emotions, convenience, and shifting standards, God calls His children to be grounded in divine principles that never change. These principles are the compass that directs how we think, act, and respond to life.
✝️ 1. The Lordship of Jesus Christ
“For none of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us dies for ourselves alone.
If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord.” — Romans 14:7-8 (NIV)
The first principle of Christian living is surrendering to the Lordship of Jesus.
He is not only Saviour but Master. Every plan, ambition, and decision must submit to His will.
To live under His Lordship means asking daily: “Lord, what would You have me do?”
📖 2. The Word of God Is My Final Authority
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105 (NKJV)
God’s Word is our constitution. It defines right and wrong, truth and deception, success and failure.
We don’t live by feelings or culture; we live by conviction rooted in Scripture.
“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” — Matthew 4:4 (NKJV)
💗 3. The Principle of Love
“Let all that you do be done with love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14 (NKJV)
Love is the royal law of the Kingdom.
Every word, action, and service must be filtered through love for God and for people.
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:35 (NIV)
🙌 4. The Principle of Faith and Obedience
“The just shall live by faith.” — Romans 1:17 (KJV)
Faith is our lifestyle, not an occasional act.
To live by faith means trusting God when the outcome is unclear and obeying when instructions are inconvenient.
Abraham believed and obeyed — that’s the pattern for Kingdom living.
🔒 5. The Principle of Holiness and Integrity
“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.” — 1 Peter 1:15 (NKJV)
Holiness is not optional; it’s our identity.
Integrity means being the same in private as in public.
“The integrity of the upright guides them.” — Proverbs 11:3 (NIV)
💼 6. The Principle of Stewardship
“Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.” — 1 Corinthians 4:2 (NKJV)
Everything we have belongs to God — time, talents, money, and opportunities.
We are stewards, not owners.
“Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” — Colossians 3:23 (NKJV)
🌅 7. The Principle of Eternity
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” — 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
Every decision should be weighed with eternity in view.
When eternity governs your perspective, your priorities align — you forgive quickly, give cheerfully, and live purposefully.
🕊️ Conclusion
The principles that define how you live reveal the foundation you stand on.
If Jesus is your foundation and His Word your compass, your life will radiate His grace and truth.
“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 3:11 (NIV)
Let these seven principles become the pillars of your daily walk.
💬 Reflection Box
Which of these principles shapes your life most strongly right now? Which one do you need to strengthen this month? How can you practically apply one principle this week?
🙏 Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me to live by Your divine principles.
Let my life be ruled by Your Word, love, faith, and holiness.
Teach me to walk in stewardship and live with eternity in view.
Amen.
🔗 Stay Connected
Join our growing community of believers at the
Dream Centre of the Life Oasis International Church
📺 Live: youtube.com/DreamCentreLiveSTREAMING/live
📻 Radio: dciradio.org
🌐 Website: www.dreamcentreoftheloic.org
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
corneliusbella 