Who isn't looking for a shortcut to success? There are quick weight-loss programs, paths to financial freedom (think informercial here), degree programs (does not include any major universities), ways to cut your grocery and utility bills, and the classic prepare meals in minutes for your family (think informercial here, too!)
We are inundated from various sources with the message that "faster is better!" Why should we have to wait any longer than we have to? "I want it, and I want it now!" is the edict of the day. Actress Meryl Streep summed it up very nicely when she said, "Instant gratification is not soon enough."
Sadly, this philosphy of instant gratification has also crept into the Church. Instant Christianity seduces many with its promises of "immediate results" in respect to power, knowledge, and maturity. Of course, we should know better than to be lured by the quick and easy road to spiritual riches. Yet, we have certainly tried them all; only to find that there is no such thing!
Ever since Adam and Eve, Satan has been offering the quick and easy way to the life that God offers. Remember when Eve (prodded on by Satan) ate from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil? It resulted in a short-cut, alright. A short-cut to death! (Genesis 3:4-6) From that day on we have been tainted and filled with the desire for the quck and easy route.
Charles F. Glassman, says in his book, Brain Drain The Breakthrough That Will Change Your Life: “Self-discipline is often disguised as short-term pain, which often leads to long-term gains. The mistake many of us make is the need and want for short-term gains (immediate gratification), which often leads to long-term pain.” When it comes to getting to know Christ, it is definitely better to practice self-discipline.
Following Christ will take some work. It will take some sacrifice on your part. You will have to practice self-discipline, and have tons of patience. You will have to change the way you think, act, and see the world. There will be some who will turn away from you. Others might think you are weird, or have lost it. Some may even become bitter and angry towards you. There is no short-cut to avoid this.
This brings to mind the story of the young man who asked Jesus what he could do to inherit eternal life. After Christ had laid it all out for him, he walked away. He was looking for a quick and easy way to eternal life. But when he was told what would be required of him, he just couldn't do it. He wasn't willing to pay the price ( Matthew 19:16-24).
Christ, in his ultimate act of love and mercy, died for our sins on the Cross. If anyone could have bypassed the beatings, torture, and painful death that He suffered for us, He could have. Jesus didn't have to travel all those long, dusty roads with His disciples to spread His message; but He did. He didn't have to do without, so that others could have plenty; but He did. He did it for us!
Instant gratification has no place in the true believer's life. There are no short-cuts when it comes to walking with Christ. You must be prepared going in that the path will be rough, and that there will be times when you feel that you simply cannot go on.
Transformation into what God wants us to be takes time. This can only be accomplished through endurance, and our obedience. He doesn't turn out "instant Christians" (1 Peter 1:7). But, for those willing to take up the challenge, the final reward will be well worth it (James 1:12).
Scripture: Romans 12:12; Galatians 6:9; Jeremiah 29:11; Ephesians 4:2; James 5:8
Prayer: Holy Father, I pray for strength, endurance, and patience as I humbly walk with You. May I always be a good example of Your teachings to others. Amen
Have a blessed weekend!
Sophie
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