What part of our lives could actually be considered absolute to our Christian faith? Those elements being determined, how much of each day do we devote to them? Who or what drives our determination of life priorities? At the close of life, will we look back with regret that so little time was given to the things that actually have eternal consequences? What traits do we most admire in the giants of faith who have affected our lives?
All of the above questions challenge us to think. Satan opposes us with a vengeance when our attention is turned to our Bibles, prayer, witnessing, giving, or ministering to the needs of others. It is evident that he rarely opposes activities that have no bearing on a soul’s eternal destiny. We are conditioned to believe that if we read scripture or have prayer over any activity, we automatically make it a serious religious experience. I am not in opposition to a diverse lifestyle that includes a variety of activities. What I am growing increasingly weary of is the assumption that we can leave out the core basics of the Christian life and still declare ourselves New Testament believers.
As a man who loves sports, hunting, fishing, a good TV western, social events, shopping (at Bass Pro Shop), and scores of other activities, I find I have difficulty in not allowing these things to crowd out my love for Christ. Enjoying an athletic contest is not sinful. Praying before participation is nice. But spending hours in play and only minutes in prayer, Bible study, and witnessing is out of balance.
In my case, much of what I enjoy goes back to appetites created in my life (mostly as a young person) which have molded my behavior. Paul’s statement, “the love of Christ constrains me” is the key. The New Testament Christians had little time for many things due to being absorbed in the main thing. They were concerned with the resurrected Christ and making Him known to everyone around them … so should we!
Bro. Jack
()January 17 Pastor’s Pen)