As Christians, we are certainly allowed to enjoy various activities and indulge in fun snacks. There is nothing inherently wrong with enjoying food, shopping, or sports in moderation. However, the concern arises when these activities begin to take precedence over our relationship with God and when they become the primary means through which we try to satisfy our spiritual needs.
There is a potential danger in letting physical pleasures and worldly activities consume our hearts and habits to the point where they detract from our spiritual well-being. When we start seeking fulfillment and satisfaction exclusively through these temporal pleasures, we risk neglecting our relationship with God and relying on temporary fixes to address deeper spiritual longings.
It is important to maintain a healthy balance and perspective. Enjoying fun snacks, participating in recreational activities, or engaging in leisurely pursuits are not inherently wrong. However, we must constantly evaluate our hearts, motivations, and habits to ensure that they align with our faith and do not overtake our relationship with God.
Regular self-reflection and open communication with God can help us identify if our focus has shifted from seeking spiritual nourishment to solely pursuing physical pleasures. By remaining mindful of our priorities and staying connected with God, we can enjoy these activities in a way that enhances our faith and glorifies Him.
Ultimately, as Christians, our faith should inform how we approach and engage in various aspects of life, including our pleasures and leisure activities. By keeping our hearts and habits aligned with God's teachings, we can find a healthy balance between enjoying the pleasures of life and seeking spiritual fulfillment in Him.
A poll was taken by Pastor Costi Hinn on X, formerly known as Twitter and Instagram and hundreds of people responded on Instagram and thousands of responses flooded in on X. The question was “what comfort do you sometimes turn to BEFORE Jesus? The responses to vote on included comfort foods/snacks, working out, retail therapy, complaining/venting. The results were very disturbing. More than 85% sometimes turn to comfort food (as I do sometimes), or complaining and venting before turning to Christ. That’s a big OUCH!
When we rely on comforts to solve our problems or meet our emotional needs, we often find that they fall short of achieving the desired results. Comforts, such as food, shopping, or other pleasurable activities, might provide temporary relief or distraction, but they are unable to address the deeper issues at hand. In fact, they can act as thieves, luring us into a false sense of security and leaving us feeling empty or unfulfilled in the long run.
Comforts can become problematic when we become overly dependent on them or use them as a means to escape or avoid facing our problems. This reliance can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms and, in some cases, addictive behaviors. We might turn to comforts repeatedly, seeking momentary relief without actually addressing the root causes of our issues. As a result, we get trapped in a cycle where we constantly seek comfort, yet never truly find lasting solutions or resolution.
Addictions can manifest when our reliance on comforts escalates and takes over our lives. Whether it's using substances, excessive shopping, or engaging in other addictive behaviors, these habits can become deeply ingrained and harmful to our well-being, ultimately exacerbating the problems we sought to escape in the first place.
Recognizing the limitations of comforts is crucial for our personal growth and overall well-being. It's important to understand that true solutions to our problems lie in seeking God's guidance, developing healthy coping strategies, and addressing the underlying issues that contribute to our struggles. God offers lasting comfort and healing, providing us with the strength, wisdom, and support to face our challenges head-on and find genuine resolution.
By being mindful of the potential pitfalls and limitations of comforts, we can make more intentional choices and proactively seek healthier alternatives that promote growth, resilience, and long-term satisfaction. This might include seeking support from loved ones, engaging in self-reflection, pursuing professional help if needed, and most importantly, relying on God's comfort and guidance to navigate life's difficulties.
So what are the keys to a Christ centered life?
First of all, we must turn to Jesus first.
We know this scene (or some version of it) all too well. You wake up, reach for the phone and a series of checks and clicks begin. In whatever order you find most pleasing: Facebook, X, Instagram, email, text messages, weather app, workflow app, news app, TikTok, Snapchat, WhatsApp. Then as the dopamine from all the notifications hits your system, you begin to feel a little guilty because you didn’t even open your Bible app. So, you do that – briefly – and the morning rush begins.
In a bustling city filled with towering skyscrapers and frenetic energy, there lived a young woman named Emma. She was smart, ambitious, and always on the go. Like many others in this digital age, Emma's mornings invariably began with one habitual act—reaching for her smartphone to immerse herself in the world of social media and countless tasks that awaited her.
Every day, as soon as Emma's alarm clock buzzed, she would awaken, rubbing her sleepy eyes and mindlessly scrolling through her various social media feeds. The noise of posts, images, and comments would flood her consciousness, sowing seeds of comparison, envy, and restlessness. The virtual world became Emma's perceived reality, shaping her thoughts, emotions, and actions for the day ahead.
Gone were the days when Emma would rise from her bed and bask in the serenity of her room, finding comfort in the quiet stillness of the early morning hours. Instead, she greeted each new day with a jumble of notifications, updates, and reminders, amplifying the chaos in her already busy mind. Her thoughts became cluttered as she battled to strike an elusive balance between her online image and the real-world demands of her daily life.
Amidst this cacophony of noises in her mind, Emma often found herself longing for a sense of peace and tranquility. She yearned for a deeper connection, something that transcended the superficiality of her virtual existence. Emma knew that God had always been present in her life, patiently waiting for her to invite Him back into her mornings. Yet, the allure of the digital realm seemed to overshadow the subtle nudges from her spiritual core.
One fateful morning, as she woke up to the chorus of emails, texts, and notifications from her countless online platforms, Emma experienced an unexpected glitch in her smartphone. It froze, refusing to respond to her frantic taps and swipes. For the first time in a long while, she found herself disconnected from the digital world and thrust into an unfamiliar silence.
Feeling a momentary pang of panic, Emma looked around her room and noticed the unnoticed—a delicate beam of sunlight filtering through her curtains, casting a warm, golden glow upon her face. She took a deep breath, inhaling the scent of morning dew, and allowed herself to cherish this quiet moment of reconnection with her surroundings.
In that tranquil space, Emma realized that the noise in her head originated not just from social media and daily tasks but from her deliberate choice to exclude God from her mornings. She yearned for the comfort and guidance that only a connection with a higher power could provide. Understanding this, Emma resolved not to let the world's noise drown out the whispers of her own soul.
From that day forward, Emma made a conscious effort to start her mornings in the presence of God. She embraced a slower, more intentional routine, finding comfort in prayer and contemplation. She turned off her smartphone, shutting out the clamor of notifications, and instead opened herself up to the stillness and peace that resided within her.
Through her reconnection with God, Emma discovered the power of operating from a place of deep faith and trust. With time, she realized that the noise she once allowed to dominate her mind was nothing compared to the gentle guidance and love that flowed freely into her heart when she chose to prioritize her relationship with the divine.
As Emma's days unfolded, she learned to navigate the demands of the digital world with a newfound clarity, wisdom, and grace. The noise that once consumed her was replaced by a quiet confidence, a steadfastness that came from knowing that, before anything else, she had invited God into her mornings, allowing His presence to guide her steps throughout the day.
In choosing to operate from the comfort of God, Emma discovered a wellspring of strength within herself—a strength that enabled her to silence the noise in her head and embrace a life filled with peace, purpose, and profound connection. And so, with each new morning, Emma woke up not only to the noise of the world but also to the profound peace of her unified spirit, eager to navigate the world from a place of love and faith.
Martin Luther once said, “I have so much to do today, I’ll need to pray for three hours to get it all done.”
I’m just as guilty of this as anyone! How can we be anywhere near as affective as we want to be if we don’t have a clear mind? It may seem backwards to most of us that like to be productive, but the best way to be productive is to start our day with prayer and put God first. Jesus is comfort.
The second thing we can do is turn off complaining.
One of the best ways to send your mind crashing into negativity is by complaining.
When we complain and adopt a negative mindset, we unintentionally shift the blame for our unhappiness onto others and even onto God. Complaining often becomes a defense mechanism, allowing us to avoid taking personal responsibility for our own thoughts, actions, and circumstances. Instead of examining our own behaviors and attitudes, we find it easier to point fingers and find fault elsewhere.
By complaining, we create a narrative where external factors control our happiness, perpetuating a cycle where we become victims of our own circumstances. This shift in blame takes away our power and agency, leaving us feeling helpless and trapped. We may believe that others or even God should be responsible for making our lives better, without recognizing that we possess the capacity to shape our own experiences.
When we constantly complain and focus on negativity, we fail to recognize our role in creating our reality. We overlook the choices we make, the perspectives we adopt, and the actions we take or don't take. It becomes easier to blame others rather than reflect and become accountable for our own emotions and actions.
Additionally, shifting blame onto others and God obscures the opportunity for personal growth and learning. Through challenges and difficult situations, we can gain valuable insights, develop resilience, and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. By rejecting responsibility and blaming external factors, we miss out on valuable lessons and the potential for personal transformation.
Blaming God also arises from a misunderstanding of His nature. While God may allow certain circumstances or challenges in our lives, it does not mean He is responsible for our unhappiness. God's role is not to eliminate all hardship, but rather to guide and support us through it. By blaming God, we fail to recognize that He is always there, offering strength, wisdom, and grace to navigate the trials we encounter.
To break free from the cycle of complaint and negativity, it's essential to shift our perspective and take ownership of our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. Instead of assigning blame, we can choose to cultivate gratitude, practice self-reflection, and set realistic expectations. Embracing accountability allows us to empower ourselves and proactively make changes, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
By recognizing our ability to shape our experiences, we regain control and become active participants in our own happiness. It is through self-awareness, personal growth, and a connection with our own inner strength that we can transcend blame and approach life with positivity, love, and a genuine acceptance of both the joys and challenges it presents.
The world’s default settings are set to “complain”. Most unbelievers make venting a sport. They spout off about however they feel, trash talk the boss, and spew out about whatever else they are unhappy about.
Being a Christian doesn’t mean we are immune to complaining, but it does mean we have a solution to it. We will find comfort in Christ much more quickly if we cease complaining.
The third key to a Christ centered life is to turn to trusted sources.
When we fail to turn to trusted sources, particularly those rooted in scripture, we can be susceptible to various negative consequences. Let's explore what can happen when we neglect the wisdom found in God’s Word.
Proverbs 27:6 reminds us of the importance of seeking advice and wisdom from those we trust: "Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses." Trusted sources, such as wise friends or mentors, challenge and correct us when necessary, ensuring we grow in wisdom and character. Without such guidance, we may become blind to our faults and make detrimental decisions.
In 2 Timothy 2:20-21, we are encouraged to separate ourselves from negative influences and strive for godliness: "In a large house, there are articles not only of gold and silver but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work." When we disregard trusted sources and subject ourselves to negative influences, we risk tarnishing our character and becoming less effective in fulfilling our purpose.
Romans 10:14-17 emphasizes the necessity of hearing and sharing the word of God: "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?... Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ." Without turning to trusted sources grounded in scripture, our understanding and connection with the word of God may weaken, hindering our faith and spiritual growth.
In 1 Thessalonians 2, the apostle Paul urges the believers to embrace and share God's word despite persecution: "For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God's churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus... We constantly thank God because... when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe." Ignoring trusted sources may lead to an inability to discern and accept the truth of God's word, leaving us susceptible to false teachings and spiritual deception.
Finally, in 1 Peter 4:7, we are reminded of the importance of sober-mindedness and prayer: "The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray." Neglecting trusted sources can make us vulnerable to distortions of truth and cloud our judgment, hindering our ability to discern God's will and navigate challenging times through prayerful reflection.
Chronic complainers will kill your comfort. Christ-exalting encouragers will ignite it. God uses people in powerful ways to bring truth into our lives. Make sure the ones you trust, trust in him too.
If you make a sincere effort to put those three keys into action in your life to live a Christ centered life, it will not go unnoticed. The devil is highly invested in trying to keep you away from the comfort you desire in Christ. He works night and day to fight your progress in Jesus and he likes to work in sneaky ways to try to be unnoticed.
There are two major weapons he loves to employ against us to attack our Christ-centered comfort: discontent and comparison.
Contentment is a priceless treasure of Christian character. The devil knows this, so he goes after it. Contentment can be a challenge though not only because of the attacks on it but because we aren’t born with it. No one is born with contentment already mastered. It isn’t natural. It has to be learned over time. If you’ll commit to practicing it, eventually it can become a habit.
Finding contentment in Christ and rejoicing in all circumstances can be achieved through a deep understanding and application of scriptures found in the Bible. Here are some key verses that can guide us in this seemingly impossible endeavor:
1. Philippians 4:11-13 (NIV) - "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength." This passage reminds us that contentment is learned and can be achieved through the strength and provision that comes from Christ.
2. Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV) - "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This verse challenges us to focus on eternal and spiritual treasures rather than seeking contentment in worldly possessions or achievements.
3. Romans 8:28 (NIV) - "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." This scripture assures us that God is always working for our good, even in difficult circumstances. By trusting in His plans and purposes, we can find contentment and rejoice, knowing that He is ultimately in control.
4. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV) - "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." This passage emphasizes the importance of maintaining an attitude of rejoicing, prayer, and thankfulness in all circumstances. By constantly seeking God's presence and expressing gratitude, we cultivate a heart of contentment.
5. James 1:2-4 (NIV) - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." This verse challenges us to find joy even in the midst of trials, knowing that they can produce spiritual growth and maturity.
6. Psalm 37:4 (NIV) - "Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." This scripture reminds us that when we find our ultimate delight in the Lord, our hearts are aligned with His will. This enables us to experience contentment and joy as He fulfills our deepest desires according to His perfect plan.
By studying and meditating on these scriptures, we can grow in our understanding of contentment in Christ and develop a perspective that allows us to rejoice in all circumstances. It is important to regularly read and apply God's Word in our lives, seeking His guidance and leaning on His strength to find lasting contentment and joy.
The second weapon the enemy uses to assault us is comparison. This is one of Satan’s favorite weapons because comparison is the thief of joy. He loves to send this gift from the pits of hell right o our doorstep every day.
Comparison enters our mind and comes out of our mouths with statements like:
1. "I wish I had as much success as my colleague."
2. "I'm not as talented as my friend."
3. "Why can't I be as organized as my neighbor?"
4. "I should be earning as much money as my sibling."
5. "They have a better job than me."
6. "I wish my body looked as good as theirs."
7. "Why is their house nicer than mine?"
8. "I'll never be as popular as them."
9. "I wish my relationship was as perfect as theirs."
10. "Why can't I have as much free time as them?"
And on and on and on it can go. Do you notice a lot of these statements are all similar in that they utilize the words I, my, me, and why? When our eyes are locked on comparisons it takes our eyes off of Christ.
These comparison statements often stem from feelings of inadequacy, envy, or a sense of lacking in some aspect of life. It's important to remember that comparing ourselves to others can lead to dissatisfaction and discontentment. Instead, focusing on our own unique journey and embracing gratitude for what we have can lead to greater contentment and joy.
James 3:16 (NIV) states, "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice." This verse warns about the destructive nature of envy and selfishness, which are weapons Satan often uses to exploit our weaknesses.
In times of weakness, when we may be more susceptible to negative thoughts, emotions, or temptations, Satan seeks to take advantage of our vulnerabilities. He mercilessly attacks us through various means, employing tactics such as stirring up envy and inciting selfish ambition.
Envy breeds dissatisfaction and a longing for what others possess or achieve. It can lead us to compare ourselves unfavorably to others, fostering feelings of inadequacy or a sense of lacking. Satan exploits this vulnerability by subtly whispering lies into our minds, convincing us that we are not good enough or that we need to pursue our desires at any cost.
Selfish ambition refers to a self-centered pursuit of personal gain or success, often disregarding the well-being of others. It consumes our thoughts and drives us to step over others to achieve our own desires. This combined with envy creates a toxic mindset that fuels disorder and chaos in our lives and relationships.
When we are weakened, physically, emotionally, or spiritually, our ability to resist the attacks of the enemy diminishes. Satan capitalizes on this and mercilessly exploits our weakness, intensifying negative thoughts, instilling doubts, or tempting us to make destructive choices.
Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of our weaknesses and vulnerabilities, relying on God's strength and power to overcome the enemy's attacks. Drawing near to God through prayer, studying His Word, and seeking guidance from fellow believers can fortify our hearts and minds against Satan's schemes. By cultivating humility, gratitude, and a Christ-centered focus, we can resist his merciless tactics and find true strength and contentment in our relationship with God.
Can Jesus use us to be a comfort to others? Yes He can!
Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV) states, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
According to these verses, Jesus calls His followers to be a light to the world, bringing comfort and shining His love and truth into the lives of others. Here are some ways we can fulfill this calling:
1. Living as examples: Jesus calls us to live in a way that reflects His teachings and character. By demonstrating love, kindness, forgiveness, and compassion, we can provide comfort and hope to those around us.
2. Sharing the Gospel: We can bring comfort by sharing the message of salvation in Jesus. Sharing the good news of Christ's sacrifice and the hope of eternal life can bring comfort to those who are burdened by sin or struggle with feelings of hopelessness.
3. Acts of service: Just as Jesus served others during His earthly ministry, we can bring comfort through acts of service. Meeting practical needs, offering a helping hand, and showing genuine care for others can bring comfort and reflect Christ's love.
4. Encouraging and comforting words: Through our words, we can provide comfort to those who are hurting or discouraged. Speaking words of encouragement, hope, and truth can uplift and reassure others, reminding them of God's love and faithfulness.
5. Praying for others: Interceding on behalf of others and lifting them up in prayer can be a powerful source of comfort. Praying for their needs, struggles, and burdens helps them experience the comfort and peace that comes from knowing they are supported by prayer.
6. Offering a listening ear: Sometimes, the greatest comfort comes from simply being present and actively listening to someone who is hurting. Allowing others to share their pain, fears, or doubts without judgment or interruption demonstrates love and compassion.
By living as lights in this world, we have the opportunity to bring comfort and point others to Jesus. Our actions, words, and attitudes can reflect His love and provide the hope and consolation that come from knowing and following Him.
We can also be a comfort to others in times of their pain. We’ll wrap up today discussing several ways we can do that.
Romans 12:15 (NIV) states, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." This verse encourages us to empathize with others in both their joys and sorrows. Here's how we can apply this principle to show empathy towards people who are hurting:
1. Recognize and acknowledge their pain: Begin by acknowledging and validating the emotions and experiences of those who are hurting. Show that you understand and care about what they're going through. This can create a safe space for them to express themselves.
2. Listen attentively: Take the time to actively listen to their concerns, allowing them to share their thoughts, feelings, and struggles without interrupting or trying to minimize their pain. Giving them your full attention and offering a non-judgmental ear can make them feel heard and understood.
3. Show compassion: Show genuine care and concern for the person's well-being. Let them know that you are there for them and willing to support them in their time of need. Simple acts of kindness, such as offering a comforting presence, sending words of encouragement, or providing practical assistance, can go a long way in showing empathy.
4. Empathize through shared experiences: If you have personally gone through a similar situation, it can be helpful to share your own experiences, struggles, and lessons learned. This can create a sense of camaraderie and give them comfort in knowing they are not alone in their pain.
5. Pray for and with them: Offer to pray for the person, asking for strength, healing, peace, or whatever specific needs they may have. Praying with them can also be a powerful way to demonstrate empathy and bring comfort.
In Psalm 56:8 (ESV), it says, "You have kept record of my days of wandering. You have stored my tearsin your bottle and counted each of them." This verse emphasizes that God sees and acknowledges our pain. As we seek to show empathy towards those who are hurting, we can learn from this verse.
Emotions are not bad. They are a tool for bonding.
Once upon a time in a small town, there lived a woman named Emily. She had been through a storm of heartbreak, her world shattered into a million pieces. Just when she thought life couldn't get any more challenging, her closest friend betrayed her, causing her immense pain and anguish.
Feeling lost and broken, Emily withdrew from the world, building walls around her heart to shield herself from further hurt. But unbeknownst to her, a believer named Sarah noticed her pain and felt compelled by her faith to reach out and offer comfort.
One fateful day, Sarah approached Emily with a gentle smile and extended a hand of friendship. Despite her resistance, Emily couldn't deny the genuine care and concern emanating from Sarah's eyes. Reluctantly, she allowed Sarah into her life.
Sarah invited Emily to weekly Bible study groups and church services, where she introduced her to a loving community of believers. Emily found herself surrounded by people who had also faced heartbreak and yet found comfort in Christ. Their stories of transformation sparked a glimmer of hope within her wounded soul.
Through the teachings of Scripture, Emily discovered the depth of God's love and the compassion of Jesus Christ. She realized that even in the midst of her pain, God had been there with outstretched arms, waiting for her to turn to Him.
With each step, Emily became more open to God's healing touch. She allowed herself to grieve and poured her heart out to Him in prayer. In His presence, she found comfort, and though the pain didn't disappear overnight, she felt her burdens becoming lighter.
As Sarah, the believer, continued to walk alongside Emily, she served as a gentle reminder of Christ's love and faithfulness. Sarah never tried to offer easy answers or fix everything, but instead, she listened to Emily's story with compassion, shared her own vulnerabilities, and pointed her to the hope found in Christ.
Slowly but surely, Emily began to rise from the ashes of heartbreak. With newfound strength and an unshakable faith, she reached out to others who were hurting, just as Sarah had done for her. Through her own journey of pain and restoration, Emily became a beacon of comfort, sharing the love and peace she had found in Christ.
In time, Emily's life was transformed from one filled with sorrow to one radiating with joy and contentment. She discovered true comfort in Christ, knowing that even amidst the trials of life, she was never alone.
Emily's story serves as a testimony of the incredible power of God's love and the transformative effect it can have on a broken heart. Through the compassion of a believer and the unwavering presence of God, she discovered that even in the darkest of times, there is always room for healing, restoration, and eternal comfort in Christ.
It is Christ who provides the best recipe for restoring the broken heart. Selflessness is the mark of Christlikeness, and there is no better way to be the church to those around you that to emulate the life Jesus modeled for us. Your moment will come too. Pain is a reality we all will experience. Taking practical steps enables us to bear one another’s burdens and be the hands and feet of Christ.
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