When busyness becomes indifference
Some Christians want to serve God and share His message, but they’re held back by the barrier of busyness. Others have become increasingly apathetic about their relationship with God. Their passion for the things of God have faded and they rarely think about the spiritual condition of the people around them.
Though Christians have worked to counter the ideas of atheism (the belief that there is no God), unfortunately, too many Christians have fallen into a condition of apatheism (indifference toward the things of God). Examine yourself for a moment here. What difference is Christ currently making in your life? Who are you praying for on a regular basis? If the answers are nothing and no one, then it’s time for a change.
The difference compassion makes
In one of Jesus’ most famous parables, He told the story of a Jewish man who was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. Out of nowhere, the man was ambushed, robbed, and left to die on the side of the road. Jesus explained what happened next: “Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion” Luke 10.31-33 ESV.
Three men came upon the man who was left for dead. The priest went to the other side of the road and kept walking. The Levite was a member of the special Jewish tribe that was set apart to worship and serve God, but he, too, went to the other side of the road and kept walking. The third man was a Samaritan, a people deeply hated by the Jews. And yet, the Samaritan saw the man and stopped to help.
What was the difference between these men? Jesus summarized the difference between them with one word: compassion. Compassion is what caused the Samaritan man to care enough to stop and help.
Self-absorption is a recipe for indifference
When we are self-absorbed and overly focused on our own interests and issues, we miss out on the chance to help the people that God brings across our path. The more consumed we are with ourselves, the less compassion we have for others. It’s a recipe for indifference.
Spiritual growth doesn’t happen automatically
Addressing people who were drifting toward indifference, the Apostle Paul said, “Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving the desire and the power to do what pleases him” Philippians 2.12-13 NLT. Grace isn’t opposed to effort; it’s opposed to earning. Spiritual growth doesn’t happen automatically; you have to work for it, building the habits and character that reflect the habits and character of Christ.
Ask God to give you a burden for others
But Paul is quick to point out that you’re not alone in the struggle. God is working in and through you to accomplish His purpose. If you feel indifferent, don’t give up. Ask God to give you a burden for the people around you who don’t know Jesus. That’s a prayer He’s sure to answer.
This blog features an excerpt from one of our Student Series books, Reach Your World.
