Pleasures

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“…lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, ⁵ having a form of godliness but denying its power…” (2 Timothy 3:4b-5a)

In my last week’s blog posting I wrote about battling with pride. This week I would like to write about another battle I believe we all have to deal with to one degree or another. I most certainly know I do. That is keeping our entertainment/pleasure in its proper place.

Some time ago I was listening to a Christian radio program where they spoke of a Christian man from a third world country who visited the USA. I cannot remember which radio program or country he was from, but they asked him a question to which, at the time I was surprised with his answer.

The question:

“Would you like to come live here in America?”

The reply:

“No I would not, here in America your God is your multimillion dollar sports stadiums, your fancy churches and all your entertainment.”

I do not believe God wants us to avoid all pleasures and entertainment, after all there is “To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven…And a time to laugh…And a time to dance…” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4) But, the question is “where does God come in?” “Where does He rank in our priorities?” There is nothing wrong with enjoying a good clean movie or a football game, but to pursue entertainment more than God will have its costs.

Is my pursuit for pleasure greater than my pursuit for God? If so, what is it costing me?

Remember, we reap what we sow…

⁷ Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. ⁸ For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. (Galatians 6:7-8)

It’s All about Jesus

Desktop Nexus: Nature Wallpapers > Waterfalls Wallpaper

I have been quiet on blogosphere over the past month or so. In part, I suppose, I needed a break or something.  Also, I believe the Lord was doing a work on my heart. Last year He told me to start writing a blog. First off, I am not a gifted writer or anything. I have to rewrite everything a number of times and use software to make sure the English is somewhat correct so that my writings make since. However, the Lord wanted me writing, so I did. It was only by His grace, and His strength was I able to write. Then I found myself building up pride, “look at me! I am getting many comments; people all over the world visit my blog. Boy, this is way cool." I would find myself going to my e-mail quite regularly checking to see if I received any new comments. Then when they were not there, I felt bummed out.

I suppose most people in ministry have to deal with pride in some way or another. We want to draw attention to ourselves. Oh yes, It is a wonderful thing making friends out there in blogger land. I sure do love reading the comments from my visitors and visiting other Christ centered blogs. I treasure all the friendships I have made. I hope and pray the Lord has used what I have written to help my readers grow in their walks with Jesus. Also, I hope and pray unsaved people come looking for answers, not just to my blog, but all of the Christ centered blogs out there. It's important to remember it's not about me; it is all about Jesus! It’s all about bringing glory to Him. Instead of rejoicing because I got comments, rejoice because His Word is going forth and He would use a sinner like me to bring Him glory. Also, rejoice in the online fellowship the Lord has given us, both through the internet and in life.

All things were created through Him and for Him. ¹⁷ And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. ¹⁸ And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. (Colossians 1:16b-18 NKJV)