Dave’s Monday Blast – November 16, 2015
I read a very compelling article yesterday by a pastor named Chris Russell who contributes to a blog on biblestudytools.com. The article was entitled “5 Things That Cause Us To Drift Spiritually”. Drifting is subtle. Often we are unaware of our insecure position until we are in the midst of a situation that can be dangerous. It can get us mired or awash with uncertainty as to the eventual outcome.
Over the next two weeks let me share with you these 5 “things” that are signs of spiritual drifting. Men of Intention will recognize these “conditions” and like the Men of Issachar described in 1 Chronicles 12:32, they will know how to address them so that they remain firmly anchored.
1) An Out-of-Control Schedule. In Ephesians 5:16 we read that we must “Redeem the time, because the days are evil.” One of Satan’s greatest weapons against our generation seems to be his ability to make good people busier than ever before. We so often sacrifice the best things in life by spending time doing things that are just “pretty good.”
If you desire to walk closely with God, you will absolutely, need to begin by taking a close look at your calendar. It is likely that you are currently doing too much. And it is also likely that your overly hectic schedule is affecting your relationship with God. So take out your pruning shears and begin to cut out any activities you can that will allow you to focus more time on your relationship with the Creator.
2) Misplaced Affections. In 1 John 2:15 we read, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” Be careful not to set your heart on things that really don’t matter. We must be INTENTIONAL about this. I cannot tell you how many times I have seen good people lured away from sound ministry because they have fallen in love with things or activities that have no eternal merit. For example, the children’s sports can certainly be a thrilling activity for your kids to pursue. But if those sports begin to adversely affect the spiritual involvement and development of your family, then pull the plug immediately.
Aren’t those great! Next week, three more things that lead to a state of drifting.
