"A life of consumption leads to a life of boredom. Our cultural focus on self interest has contributed to a society filled with individuals who are alienated, lonely, disconnected and rootless. When the individuals self is glorified over the greater good, rights begin to take precedence over responsibility, isolated pursuits replace the struggle for the common good, desires are twisted to resemble needs, and the imitation is presented as the real thing. In the process we often miss the thing that should be driving us - an intimate relationship with the Lord, and a life based on following the Lord that includes a commitment to loving and serving others."
Unknown Author
This is a quote from a message that I recently listened to, framing a clear description of how our society is affecting the life of the church. Please take a moment and read this statement again, let its significance sink in, investigating your personal attitudes and actions that might match with the cultural trends represented in this quote.
When I personally access and read this quote, I am challenged by the presence of these cultural trends in my thinking and actions. I am also enlightened by that reality that the people I meet every day are also walking in these beliefs.
We live in a society that is isolated, selfish, self gratifying! Media and consumerism tells us that we can’t be happy without specific latest products, and then as soon as we purchase or acquire the things that will bring happiness, media tells us that what we have just received is not good enough and now we need something new to make us happy, significant, and acceptable.
We shall never find happiness or significance by looking for it in the same way as those who have not yet met Jesus and been adopted into the Kingdom of God. In fact happiness is a feeling that passes but we can have joy that endures.
" Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. "1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NKJV)
" Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:31-33 (NKJV)
What do we seek? Have we actually stepped out of the world and given ourselves to Jesus fully? Do we truly want to hear the call to go into the entire world with the gospel? If we put aside the pursuit of worldly gain, the Lord will fill out lives with the things that we need. Our direction will then be towards what Jesus came to accomplish:
1. Make a way for mankind to be saved. Luke 4:18 (NKJV)
2. Establish His church. Ephesians 1:20-23 (NIV)
3. Make disciples. Matthew 4:19
4. Healing, freedom and proclaiming the favour of the Lord. Luke 4:18-19 (NKJV)
Let us seek the Lord and give ourselves to the Lord in pursuit of holiness and godliness. Let’s move forward believing that He who started the good work in you is able to complete it. Let’s ask the Lord to transform our minds and our hearts so that we can “PROVE what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:1-2 (NKJV)
Our culture tells us what we need, want, and desire. Jesus tells us that if we are obedient to do what He ask us to that our inheritance will be great, and that we will have a part in establishing things of eternal significance. I’m in for building and establishing the CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST.
Pastor Doug
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