In my previous post I mentioned the Psychology Today article on the failed American (& Canadian) Dream. The authors trace the rapidly declining satisfaction and personal meaning of Americans to unrealistic expectations. That is, expecting that achieving the standard trappings of “success” would bring meaning to life.
I’m wondering if the same could be said of evangelical spiritual life? That we have unrealistic expectations. So common it seems these days, that people leave the faith because of their personal hurts in life and the ensuing disappointment with God. “If God is good, how could he have let this happen?”
Yesterday I learned of a personal friend and long time pastor that has pretty much totally walked away from Christianity. Not shocking anymore...it’s becoming more and more common, even among Christian leaders. It wouldn’t surprise me if disappointment was at the core of his emotional reasonings. He’s had a tough go of it in his town.
What did Jesus promise to those who follow him? A worthy Bible study.
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2 comments:
I found I really dislike tests. When in school they were common place and like all students I complained about an upcoming test. Later in life I recognized that they were still there, just not as obvious and scheduled as they were in school.
I'm thinking it is common that we hate the honesty tests force upon us. It messes with our expectations when the reality of who we are or what we know is brought to light.
We face tests spiritually as well. Whether they come through life's curve balls thrown toward us, or through someone's desire to evaluate our spiritual life, or through our Enemy's attack, or through God's fathering; we face testings. Perhaps the real test is how we handle them.
Could it be our attitude? Do we gripe, try to avoid, become disappointed, discouraged and disillusioned? Is it that when our expectations are confronted and our self-evaluations are humbled that the results cause us to give up?
More time in the WORD and PRAYER have proven to be the best 'vitamins' I need in my daily diet in order to face tests, trials and temptations.
Well said David...
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