In this new series I will be referring to the twelve principles of my first book, The Posture Principle: a practical guide to embracing your true calling. Each week I will introduce one of the twelve, with a quote and three or four questions.

What do you value most? My quote, above, explains why this is important. We will give our attention to what we value. That will lead our lives, and if what we value draws us on good, reinforcing and strengthening paths then we will grow and flourish. The opposite will cause decay and weakening. My book The Posture Principle uses the physical spine and vertebrae as an illustration. In particular, that part called the thoracic spine which contains twelve vertebrae. I have transformed those vertebrae into twelve spiritual principles which will help us to have an intimate relationship with God, which I believe is our true calling, and out of which everything else flows.

What do you mean by ‘an intimate relationship with God? This is a depth of relationship beyond simply reading in the Bible about God and what He says. We are meant to relate to the Trinity – Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit – in such a way that we can talk to Him and listen to what He has to say, and actually experience His presence with us. We must let Him love us, and help us to grow in our love for Him. In fact, in John 15 we are told that it is by remaining in such a deep relationship at all times, that we bear fruit for God. We are meant to do everything out of that place. Why? Because what we then do, will be what He has on His own heart, and we will have heard that and want to do it.

Does my attitude toward, or belief about, each principle really matter? Your thoughts and beliefs are shown by your attitude and actions. They form your posture. Your posture is how you position yourself in life – and before God. The twelve principles relate to how we see God, what we understand about Him and our position as His children. Each principle can be perceived in a positive, or negative way. I encourage you to see God in His true Light, as giving us abundant and overflowing life. He loves you and wants the best for you. He equips you to live well in Him.

What is a spiritual backbone? It is what keeps our faith upright and healthy, our posture before God strong and confident because our faith in His faithfulness is secure. Without the biblical principles however, it can become bowed down, crooked and misaligned, and therefore unable to support our lives for fruitfulness. Each blog following this will seek to give a basic understanding of each of the twelve principles in my book The Posture Principle, and you may want to read each chapter alongside the blogs. You can buy it on Amazon, here: The Posture Principle book .

Be blessed on your journey! I am excited for you. Martina.