In the journey on our spiritual path, the concept of individual sovereignty stands as a pillar of personal empowerment and responsibility. Sovereignty, in this context, is about the recognition of one’s own authority over their personal life, choices, and spiritual path. This idea is deeply rooted in both spiritual principles and biblical teachings, which affirm the dignity, freedom, and responsibility that come with being created in the image of God.
The Bible begins with a declaration of human identity: “So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them” (Genesis 1:27). This verse is foundational in understanding the sovereignty of the individual. To be made in the image of God is to possess innate worth, dignity, and the ability for self-determination. It implies that each person carries within them a divine spark, a unique expression of God’s creative power. Our country’s Declaration of Independence also supports our inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
This divine image grants individuals the authority to make choices and to shape their lives in accordance with their understanding of God’s will of only good. The freedom to choose is a gift, but it comes with the responsibility to align those choices with higher spiritual principles. True freedom, and thus true sovereignty, is found in living according to divine truth, which liberates us from the bondage of fear, ignorance, and error.
Spiritual principles, like the law of cause and effect, reinforce the idea of individual responsibility. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Galatians 6:7, “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” This spiritual law underscores that we are the architects of our experiences and outcomes in life. Our thoughts, words, and actions set into motion forces that shape our reality. Therefore, exercising our sovereignty means taking responsibility for the seeds we plant in our minds and hearts.
Unity’s teachings emphasize that the power of our thoughts is central to our spiritual sovereignty. Charles Fillmore, co-founder of Unity, wrote, “You create your world through the power of your thought.” This echoes Proverbs 23:7, which states, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” Recognizing the power of our thoughts allows us to take command of our lives, aligning our heart-mind with God.
Freedom is a vital aspect of spiritual life, and it needs to be balanced by the recognition of our interconnectedness. Jesus summarized the entire law in two commandments: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind” and “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39). These commandments highlight that our sovereignty is not isolated but is expressed in the context of our relationship of love with God and others.
Loving our neighbor as ourselves implies a respect for the sovereignty of others. The sovereignty of the individual is a sacred trust, granted by God and supported by spiritual law. It empowers us to shape our lives in alignment with divine truth of unconditional love and take responsibility for our thoughts and actions with others.
We are here to love and be loved. That is our reason for being here. Let’s balance our sovereignty and responsibility to bring only love into our life and affairs.