Should Secularism Re-Write the Rules of Christian Exercise?

The world has been spinning on its axis long before the advent of modern Christianity, with hundreds of moral frameworks and spiritual teachings impacting social norms and beliefs. The concept of 'Christian exercise', a form of spiritual guidance often used as a form of self-help and self-care, has been around within some forms of Christianity for many centuries. However, with the western world increasingly embracing secularism, we must ask if this so-called Christian exercise is ripe for re-adaptation for a secular world.

To understand why the idea of Christian exercise is in need of re-adaptation, it is important to note the difference between secularism and Christianity. Secularism is defined as the rejection of religious beliefs and practices in favor of principles of physical and psychological scientific reasoning and freedom from religion. Conversely, Christianity is characterized by faith, belief and practice in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ. The question is, can these two perspectives co-exist and benefit each other, rather than one simply replacing or discrediting the other.?

If you look at the core of Christianity, much of the teachings are universal, transcending religious borders and beliefs, most notably the concept of ‘love thy neighbor'. This, along with the belief in doing one's best to live through bouts of adversity is not unique to Christianity, but more so encompasses human strength and the ability to shape ourselves regardless of external factors. When such values are considered, it is clear that much of the ‘Christian exercise' can still be included within a secular framework; all it needs is a contemporary re-appropriation.

To put this into perspective, let us consider a trying moment one may face and how they can use both the values of secularism and Christianity to manage it. In trying moments, we should train ourselves to ask: What would a kind, calm and mature person do or say now? By focusing on these values, rather than attaching them to any particular religion or spiritual journey, the narrative moves away from the grounding 'us versus them' mentality and allows people to take ownership of their actions and response. In this light, they can tap into the power of love, acceptance, kindness and connection which are known to be essential for wellbeing and emotional balance.

Furthermore, this sense of taking responsibility for oneself is a cornerstone of secular belief, enabling individuals to assess, reassess and improve their own sense of self-awareness, thus empowering them to make positive and lasting changes in their life. Such philosophies, when intertwined, can help an individual recall their inner strength and self-belief - two essential aspects of true happiness and wellbeing.

So whilst the boundaries of secularism and Christianity remain ever distinct, the core of both ideologies are more alike than different, teaching those of all religious persuasions the same values and ideals. Indeed, it is possible to view secularism as a way of honoring the same spiritual teachings of Christianity, but just with a different interpretation. That is to say, Christian exercise is ripe for secular re-adaptation and can teach us a great deal about meeting difficult moments with empathy, kindness and understanding.

It is not the idea or the source of a philosophy that should influence us; it is the emotion and content behind it. Grasping onto ideas that invite self-reflection and understanding of the greater good could be seen as the ultimate goal of morality, unity between religious and secular groups. Taking the best of both worlds and forging a path forward in harmony is the only path worth treading, offering an unprecedented opportunity for personal growth. It is upon us to embrace the joy of learning from diverse perspectives and experiences, enjoying the connectivity and potential to unite that brings. Though rooted in different beliefs and doctrines, we can call upon us to come together under the banner of humanism, with peace and co-existence in mind.