This post is another inspired by my reading in “My Utmost for His Highest.” For April 24th, Chambers (1986) wrote, “Never court anything other than the approval of God.” In this context he was talking about believers who seek success in discipleship rather than simply God’s approval. But I think you can extend this exhortation to all of life.
We have all known a handful of guys and girls who were flirts, they enjoyed the “game” of dating, maybe a little too much. They typically didn’t date anyone for very long and yet were rarely without someone or someones that they were talking to or dating. Unfortunately, I believe that our culture has created a lot of spiritual flirts. They come to church and they passionate (or non-passionately) sing praise to God and give casual attention to a message. They might attend some sort of small group or Bible study. It’s just a casual relationship with God.
Then some days of the week they flirt with the idol of money, seeking the next promotion, the next gain, the next step; other days they flirt with the idol family, drawing their joy and life from family members rather than from God; and still other days, they flirt with the idol of technology, spending 8-10 hours a day on the phone, watching tv, or playing games. Don’t misunderstand, a person can work, have a family, and use technology and still worship God with their whole heart, but most of us do not.
Is God just a thing you do sometimes or is he you one great love? Are you flirting with faith and other idols or are you fully committed God? Are you a spiritual flirt? If you find that you are, take some steps to draw nearer to God, if you need help, reach out to a trusted friend or a leader in your church.
Chambers, O. My Utmost for His Highest: Selections for the Year. Grand Rapids, MI: Oswald Chambers Publications; Marshall Pickering.
John-David M. Culbertson 