Posted by: mikenicholsblog | May 16, 2013

fondness or passion?

Last week I had the opportunity to play in a charity golf outing that raised funds for a Christian School. One of our team members was a great golfer, and you could say he intimidated me. I am really fond of golf. My teammate is passionate about golf (and that’s why he is so good). My wife and I are fond of walking on long trails, but not passionate enough to do it regularly. You are probably no different. There are things you are fond of that don’t reach the level of passion. It’s probably fair to say that Christian America has a fondness for God, but not the passion to sacrifice their comfort for His cause. A logical question for all of us is; “would a greater passion for God bring a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment in my life?” If not, why would He desire it of us?

It is easy to read a quote like “each of us is as close to God as we choose to be” (Dr. Oswald Sanders), and give intellectual agreement to it. But if you and I were to give an honest evaluation of our lives in relationship to that quote, what would the results tell us? I wonder if it would really take that much evaluation to root out the truth. We all know how close to God we are choosing to be. If you are a Christ follower, there is no doubt that you love God and can absolutely be used greatly for His cause. Since yesterday ended at midnight, yesterday’s lack of passion is no longer relevant. What is His purpose for you today? Finding spiritual purpose without seeking to know God and drawing close to Him will only lead to frustration. To grow close to God and fulfill His purpose for us, the Word has to play a vital role in each of our lives.

A favorite author of mine, Beth Moore, writes in Believing God

“An ongoing relationship with God through His Word is essential to the Christian’s consistent victory!”

I don’t know that I have ever met a person whose faith I would want to emulate, that was not a student of the Word. Make no mistake; consistent intake of the heart of God will change you. You will learn His perspective on life, and that insight will shape and reshape you. I am very conscious that many who read our articles have known Christ for many years. But there is a burden in my spirit that American Christianity treats our relationship with God’s Word like I treat my golf game. Far too many errors are made because I just don’t want to put in the time to be the best. But in matters eternal, the stakes are so much higher. Every relationship that you and I have is affected by our relationship to God through His Word.

So if you will choose to be close to God, you must also choose to be close to His Word. We all have to make a decision … fondness or passion? If you desire to consistently have His perspective, start today with a fresh view of the Word and it’s power in your life. Yesterday really did end at midnight, and the Creator of each new day wants you to have His insight. When you gain it, there will be a great sense of purpose and fulfillment.

If you want to grow closer to Christ, and are struggling between fondness and passion, email us. We are here for you, and I promise we will help you!

yeam2012


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