Living Free - Jan. 14, 2014
Today's Scripture
"Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world." - 1 John 2:15-16 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Busyness can steal our intimacy with God. We live in a hurry-up world. We throng to the fast-food lines. We want faster Internet, faster downloads. We demand instant results and immediate gratification. How do we use the time released by all these "instant tools"? Do we spend more time relaxing with our loved ones? Do we focus more attention on God? No, we find more "fast" pursuits to fill our day. Busyness begins to define our lifestyle. And the busyness distracts us from our focus on God.
We are overloaded with e-mails, cell phones, and hours on the road. We have bosses to please, kids to shuttle, and new gadgets to try out. Then there are those even more subtle distractions—the innocuous amusements we pursue to revitalize our numb souls—golf courses, the Cineplex, shopping malls. But none of these can renew a depleted spirit.
Consider this …
There is nothing wrong with any of the activities mentioned. But they become wrong if they distract us from God. An idol is anything that consistently distracts us from God. An idol is what we look to as the source of our security and significance. An idol is a God-substitute.
Has your busyness become an idol in your life? Have any of your activities—even good ones—distracted you from God?
The first step is admitting there are idols and distractions stealing your passion for God. The next step is to ask God's forgiveness. And then begin making some changes.
Father, I realize I've let the busyness in my life rob me of an intimate relationship with you. My passion for you has faded. Please forgive me and help me get back on track. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
A Passionate Pursuit of God: Drawing Nearer to Him by Dr. Mike Chapman. This study teaches participant how to move into God's inner circle, how to listen for the voice of God, how to enjoy the freedom of worship, and how to embrace the mission of worship. This 45-minute format will accommodate groups with limited meeting times. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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