Episode 29.
Orneita Burton, a professor at Abilene Christian University in Abilene Texas, speaks about Authenticity in Spirituality. This intention to be genuine in our relationship with God involves reflection, reading scripture, and serving others. Authenticity is a challenge, as it calls for understanding ourselves and others.  Part of the difficulty is from the spiritual warfare between God and the dark forces which can misdirect us. For Orneita, her authentic spirituality is through Christ, but any relationship with God can be authentic. Being open to people and experiences and removing preconceptions that limit learning and growth help us to improve the lives of others.


Highlights:
·       Authentic Spirituality is being real, being a vehicle for good in the world.

·       Preconceptions limit your understanding and openness to a person and an experience. 

·       Spirituality is not defined by a religion or denomination.

·       Spiritual warfare is between God and the dark forces, which may draw us off the path that God intended for us.

·       We learn our purpose through reading scripture, reflection and seeking a relationship with God. 

Quotes:
“Being able to be the true person that that God intended for us to be, it takes effort, it takes time, takes quiet reflection and also being in communication with God enough so that He can speak life into us.”

“We truly need to consider how we walk spiritually on a day-to-day basis.”

“We are part of a spiritual warfare, and so we are created to be instrumental in creating a spiritual, a positively spiritual outcome for each and every one of us.”

“Am I here to serve self or am I here to serve the purpose for which I was made?” 

“Basically, a person who lives authentically understands their need for Christ, and without that relationship it's a hopeless existence because we live in a fallen world.”

“We are here to serve and there are so many opportunities that occur on a regular basis that are not defined. They're not official, but they have to do with making other people’s lives better for today. It's defined as stewardship sometimes.”

Social Media links for Orneita Burton:   
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/orneitaburton/

Social Media links for Méli:
Talking with God Project –  https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/

Transcript:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/11938962-29-bonus-authenticity-in-spirituality-with-orneita-burton/edit


Follow the podcast!
The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise:  Is your way similar or different?  Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore?  Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet.     


Comments?  Questions?  Email  Méli -
         [email protected]

The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project.