Get your head in the game

I'm thinking that Brook and i have a different perspective on American Christianity since we lived out of it for a couple of years. We were pretty amazed when we first got back a year ago at the self-focus and small thinking. I thought i was being too critical and sensitive, so i chilled for a while. But i can't chill any longer. No punches pulled on this one.

At a large prayer meeting recently, the guy praying asked for those struggling financially to stand for prayer. It was a large portion of the crowd. Then he asked for those with health issues to stand. The lady in front of us muttered "Well that'll be pretty much everyone" as she stood for prayer.

I don't deny that there are occasional money and health issues - the Bible has many. But it seems we have a lifestyle of not quite having enough. There's a sickness, poverty mentality that is so enveloping American Christianity. I'm talking about those who just dwell there and wear their need as some kind of badge - "My needs and problems are worse than yours..."

There is a simple solution, one that is almost too easy. Get outside of yourself. I know in my life he times i've dealt with the most junk are those times i get self-absorbed and then it just sucks me in. Naval gazing, self-absorbtion, self pity, it's all a pit. Once you start down that road of self, it's a quick downhill slide. Pray, bring your need to God and then serve something or someone outside of yourself.

Sorry if i sound mean and uncaring. There is need and sickness and issues surrounding us. It just strikes me that health, provision, blessing and soundness come when we put ourselves second or third and serve someone else.

I'm not talking about earning something by works, but by proving our love and that Jesus is Lord in all situations by putting Him first and loving others like we love ourselves.

Pray, love, give, serve.