In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Paul warns us – “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.”
I see people whom that describes in one way or another all over the place. However, I think what REALLY sums up a LOT of “Christians” in today’s world is the phrase, “lovers of pleasure RATHER than lovers of God”. There are even hundreds or more churches built today upon the argument – “We want people to have FUN and be entertained at church!” Well, how about, “we want people to COME TO KNOW JESUS at church!” or “We want people to GROW in their life spiritually at church!”? And, there are thousands who lay claim to the Christian faith, yet they are more interested in what movies are coming out, not missing their favorite television program, or the latest music and celebrity scandals and gossip than they are about spending time with GOD.
As a TRUE follower of Jesus Christ – this life is NOT about US….it is ALL about HIM! Knowing God, Pleasing God, and OBEYING God and His Word. Instead, there are thousands who like Paul said in 2 Peter 2:15 “Forsaking the right way, they have gone astray.” People who would just rather have “FUN” than spend the time and effort in TRULY getting to KNOW GOD.
YES – it costs to TRULY know God, we MUST give up MUCH to TRUTHFULLY seek after Him with ALL of our hearts. However, there is NOTHING in this world more valuable than a life 100% committed to HIM, and seeking to FOLLOW HIM DAILY. It’s FAR MORE VALUABLE than ALL the pleasures in this world combined.
Like the song writer put it:
There are millions in this world who are craving
The pleasures earthly things afford;
But none can match the wondrous treasure
That I find in Jesus Christ my Lord.
I challenge you today – GIVE UP WHATEVER is keeping you from TRULY KNOWING HIM and FINDING that TRUE INVALUABLE TREASURE!! You’ll never regret it. On the other hand, if you choose to keep seeking the pleasures of this world – I guarantee you one day YOU WILL regret it!