There’s a lot about faith, God, and religion that you only start to understand with time.
When you’re a child, your relationship with a higher power (if you have one) is more innocent and simplistic. It’s not until you mature that you realise all isn’t what it seems. Here are a few things they don’t always tell you when you’re young.
1. Faith doesn’t always feel steady.
When you’re younger, faith can seem like a constant, unwavering thing. But as you grow, you realise that faith has ups and downs. There are times you’ll question and doubt, and that’s actually normal. Faith isn’t about being certain all the time; it’s about coming back to what you believe, even when it feels shaky. This process can make your faith stronger and more personal over time.
2. Religion and spirituality aren’t the same thing.
People often use these words interchangeably, but they mean different things. Religion is usually about organised practices, while spirituality is more personal and can exist outside of traditional frameworks. You can be spiritual without being religious, and vice versa. Understanding the difference helps you find what resonates most with you.
3. Good people can belong to any faith—or none at all.
Source: Pexels Growing up, you might think that “goodness” is tied to a specific religion, but people from all backgrounds can live kind, moral lives. Character isn’t exclusive to one belief system. Realising this broadens your perspective and helps you appreciate people for who they are, not just what they believe. Kindness and compassion cross all religious boundaries.
4. Doubt is part of the journey.
Source: Unsplash It’s easy to think that doubt means you’re losing faith, but doubt is often just part of growth. Questioning what you believe doesn’t make you less faithful; it helps you understand your beliefs on a deeper level. Many people experience periods of doubt that lead to stronger, more personal beliefs. Doubt is just a sign that you’re thinking deeply about your faith.
5. Faith can evolve over time.
The beliefs you held as a child might look very different from the ones you hold as an adult, and that’s okay. As you grow and experience life, your understanding of faith may shift. This doesn’t mean you’re losing your faith; it means it’s adapting to who you’re becoming. Faith that grows with you is often more meaningful.
6. Worship looks different for everyone.
Source: Unsplash Growing up, worship might seem like something formal, done a certain way. But as you get older, you see that people connect with God in all kinds of ways. Worship can be a quiet prayer, a song, or even a walk in nature. Finding your own way of worship can make your faith feel more personal and real.
7. Religious texts aren’t always meant to be taken literally.
Sometimes, religious stories and teachings are symbolic, meant to convey deeper truths rather than strict facts. Understanding this can help you connect with the wisdom without getting caught up in literal interpretations. Many people find that approaching texts as lessons rather than rules helps them connect more deeply. It’s about the message, not just the words.
8. Not all religious leaders live up to their teachings.
When you’re young, you might assume that religious leaders are perfect role models. But like everyone else, they’re human and make mistakes. Realising this can be disappointing, but it helps you separate the faith from the people. Believing in something doesn’t mean you have to put blind trust in anyone.
9. Religion can be a community, but it’s not everything.
Religion often brings people together, creating a sense of community, which can be incredibly supportive. However, as you grow, you may find connections outside of your faith that are just as meaningful. Community is valuable, but it’s also okay to find belonging in other places. Faith and community are important, but they’re not limited to one group.
10. Spiritual practices can help with mental health.
Things like prayer, meditation, or attending services can be surprisingly grounding, especially during tough times. These practices offer a sense of peace and perspective, and they don’t have to be strictly religious. Faith can be a source of comfort, but it’s not a replacement for other forms of self-care. Using spiritual practices as tools can help balance life’s challenges.
11. You don’t have to understand everything to believe.
When you’re young, you might think you need answers to all the big questions. But as you grow, you realise that faith often means embracing mystery. Not having all the answers doesn’t make your beliefs any less valid. Sometimes, the mystery is what keeps faith alive and engaging.
12. Religion isn’t always about strict rules.
Source: Unsplash It’s easy to see religion as a set of “dos” and “don’ts,” but many faiths are about love, kindness, and growth rather than rigid rules. Understanding this can make faith feel less restrictive and more welcoming. When you focus on the values rather than just the rules, it’s easier to feel connected.
13. People can misuse religion for personal agendas.
Religion has inspired countless people, but it’s also been used to justify harmful actions. Recognising this doesn’t mean you have to abandon your faith, but it helps you see it more realistically. It’s about understanding the difference between faith itself and how people sometimes manipulate it. Being aware helps you stay true to the core values of your beliefs.
14. Faith can coexist with science.
Source: Unsplash Growing up, it’s easy to feel like you have to pick between faith and science, but many people find room for both. Science explains the “how” of the world, while faith often deals with the “why.” Balancing both can give you a fuller understanding of life. It’s possible to appreciate both without feeling conflicted.
15. Your relationship with God is personal.
When you’re young, faith is often about what other people teach you, but as you grow, it becomes a personal journey. You start to build a relationship with God that feels uniquely yours, not based on what anyone else says. This personal connection can be one of the most fulfilling aspects of faith. It’s your journey, and it’s meant to be your own.
