So, we
are comparing the idea of pseudo-fasting to pitfalls in our own spiritual
lives. A man who “fasts” only between
regular meals and snacks is not serving anyone but himself. Today, fasting on a full stomach will
represent SERVICE without SACRIFICE.
Many “Christians”
are looking for a brand of service that is free! They want to be recognized as a follower of
Christ…but don’t want any responsibility, and certainly don’t want to make any
personal sacrifices in Christ’s name. They
want to do as little as they think is necessary to get to heaven. But where is the logic in seeking to do as
little as possible for the God who has done absolutely everything for us? (John 3:16; Philippians 2:5-8)
So, how
do people practice this idea of service without sacrifice? The person who participates in spiritually
beneficial activities ONLY when he has nothing better to do is serving without
sacrifice. The one who gives ONLY out of
his abundance like the rich who gave only of their “abundance” (Mark
12:41). They gave, but not to the point
of sacrifice. We are not required to
physically die for our Christian family, but we have opportunities to make
little sacrifices regularly. When was the
last time you gave up some time (that you really wanted to use in some other
way) for the betterment of the Church? Do
you only give enough to God ease your conscience, or do you give until the
pains of sacrifice are felt?
While
some are looking for a cheaper brand of Christianity, Christ has already paid
the ultimate price for our chance to spend eternity with Him (Acts 20:28). A faithful Christian makes daily choices that
reflect his or her love for Jesus. As
Christ himself put it, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John
14:15). Remember, only those who deny
themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Christ can be His disciples
(Matthew 16:24).
----Darrell
Powell
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