Drawing from the wisdom of Don Miguel Ruiz’s “Four Agreements,” we can take strides towards living a more meaningful, authentic life in alignment with biblical teachings. First and foremost, it is essential to be impeccable with our words: speak honestly, truthfully and authentically without judgement or expectation for that of others. Secondly comes an invitation not to internalize anything personally- letting go of seeking validation or approval through external means allows us to better manage reactions when faced with difficult situations or people. The third agreement encourages thoughtful communication by encouraging questions rather than making assumptions – put simply; actively listen and make space for understanding other perspectives as you open yourself up to learning something new! Finally comes perhaps one of the most challenging yet invaluable agreements – always do your best no matter what obstacles come your way – setting high standards on these occasions will help shape who you are today & into tomorrow.

Be impeccable with your words

“Let your yes be yes and your no be no” – Matthew 5:37

One of the four principles outlined in “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz is “Be impeccable with your words.” This principle emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in our words and actions. It means being mindful of the words we use and speaking truthfully, rather than spreading gossip or engaging in criticism.

As Christians, this principle aligns with biblical teachings about honesty and integrity. The Bible encourages us to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) and to “put away lying” (Ephesians 4:25). It also reminds us that our words have power and that we should be careful about what we say (Proverbs 18:21).

But being impeccable with our word is about more than just avoiding lies and deceit. It also means being authentic and genuine in our communication. Brené Brown, a researcher and author on vulnerability, writes about the importance of “wholehearted living,” which involves being authentic and genuine in our interactions with others. When we are open and honest about our thoughts and feelings, we allow others to see the real us, which can help to build deeper, more meaningful connections.

So how can we be impeccable with our word and cultivate authenticity in our communication? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Practice honesty: This means being truthful and genuine in our interactions with others, rather than hiding behind lies or deceit.
2. Seek clarity: If you are unsure about something, ask for clarification rather than making assumptions. This can help to prevent misunderstandings and facilitate open and honest communication.
3. Avoid gossip: Gossip can be harmful and destructive, and it is important to avoid engaging in it. Instead, seek to build others up with your words (Ephesians 4:29).
4. Use “I” statements: When sharing your thoughts and feelings, try to use “I” statements rather than making accusations or placing blame on others. This can help to create a more open and respectful dialogue.

By adhering to these principles, we can be impeccable with our words and cultivate authenticity in our communication. This can help us to build deeper, more meaningful connections with others and live more fulfilling lives.

Don’t take anything personally

“Do not be easily angered” – James 1:19

This principle encourages us to let go of the need to take things personally and recognize that other people’s words and actions are often a reflection of their own beliefs and experiences, rather than a reflection of us.

As Christians, this principle aligns with biblical teachings about self-control and emotional intelligence. The Bible encourages us to “not be easily angered” (James 1:19) and to “not let the sun go down on your anger” (Ephesians 4:26). It also reminds us to seek God’s approval rather than the approval of others (Galatians 1:10).

But how can we put this principle into practice? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Practice self-control: This means being mindful of our emotions and not letting them dictate our behavior. It involves learning how to manage our reactions to difficult situations and people.
2. Seek to understand: Rather than taking things personally, try to understand where the other person is coming from. This can help to prevent misunderstandings and facilitate more productive communication.
3. Seek God’s approval: Remember that our ultimate approval should come from God, not from others. This can help to free us from the need to seek the approval of others and allow us to be more authentic in our relationships.
4. Practice gratitude: Focusing on the things we are grateful for can help us to let go of negative emotions and focus on the positive aspects of our lives.

By adhering to these principles, we can learn to not take things personally and cultivate a sense of emotional intelligence and self-control. This can help us to build more fulfilling relationships and live more authentic lives.

Don’t make assumptions

“Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” – Matthew 10:16

This principle encourages us to be open and curious rather than making assumptions about others or the world. It means asking for clarification and seeking to understand others’ perspectives.

As Christians, this principle aligns with biblical teachings about understanding and communication. The Bible encourages us to “be slow to speak and slow to anger” (James 1:19) and to “seek to understand before seeking to be understood” (James 1:19). It also reminds us to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16), which means being both shrewd and innocent in our interactions with others.

But how can we put this principle into practice? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Ask questions: Rather than making assumptions, try to ask clarifying questions to understand others’ perspectives. This can help to prevent misunderstandings and facilitate open and honest communication.
2. Practice active listening: When others are speaking, try to truly listen and understand their perspective rather than formulating a response in your head. This can help to create a more open and respectful dialogue.
3. Seek to understand: When you are in a disagreement with someone, try to understand their perspective rather than immediately becoming defensive. This can help to facilitate more productive communication.
4. Be open to new perspectives: Remember that you don’t have all the answers, and be open to learning and growing from others’ perspectives.

By adhering to these principles, we can learn to not make assumptions and cultivate understanding in our relationships. This can help us to build more fulfilling relationships and live more authentic lives.

Always do your best

“Work heartily, as for the Lord” – Colossians 3:23

This principle encourages us to commit to doing our best in all circumstances, even when things are difficult or uncertain. It means setting high standards for ourselves and striving to meet them.

As Christians, this principle aligns with biblical teachings about excellence and stewardship. The Bible encourages us to “work heartily, as for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23) and to “do everything in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14). It also reminds us to be good stewards of the talents and resources that God has given us (Matthew 25:14-30).

But how can we put this principle into practice? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Set high standards for yourself: This means setting goals and striving to achieve them, even when things are difficult or uncertain.
2. Persevere: When faced with challenges, don’t give up. Instead, persevere and keep working towards your goals.
3. Serve others: Remember that your work is not just about you, but also about serving others. Seek to make a positive impact on the world around you through your work.

1. Seek excellence: Strive to do your best in all that you do, whether it be at work, in your personal life, or in your relationships.

By adhering to these principles, we can learn to always do our best and cultivate excellence in all aspects of our lives. This can help us to live more authentic and fulfilling lives and be good stewards of the talents and resources that God has given us.

In conclusion, “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz offers four principles that can help us to live a more authentic and fulfilling life in accordance with biblical teachings. By adhering to the principle of “Be impeccable with your words,” we can cultivate honesty, integrity, and authenticity in our communication. By following the principle of “Don’t take anything personally,” we can develop self-control, emotional intelligence, and the ability to seek God’s approval rather than the approval of others. By practicing the principle of “Don’t make assumptions,” we can foster understanding, communication, and conflict resolution in our relationships. And by always striving to do our best, we can cultivate excellence, stewardship, and a desire to serve others. I hope that these principles will be as helpful to you on your journey as they have been to me, and that they will help you to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.