What Kind of Spirit Do You Want?
Many people recognize a general brokenness in their own lives, and also sense it multiplying through our culture over the last 50 years or so. We have developed an expansive vocabulary related to different forms of dysfunction, addiction, and mental health. Most people seem to feel a need for help from beyond themselves to develop healthy and free lives. Often, they are on some kind of spiritual quest. In many circles it has even become quite chic to pursue spiritual things. For what kind of spirit and spiritual experiences, however, are people looking?
There is a (sometimes subtle) natural draw to seek spiritual growth primarily for the purpose of self-improvement, personal influence, or power. We can be tempted to use the spiritual realm, trying to get it to submit to our own personal wills. The temptation is to look for spiritual power that will help us get what we want. So, we may turn to impersonal expressions of faith/religion to boost our sense of self – a kind of self-help spirituality. This kind of “faith” avoids a sense of moral/spiritual accountability, personal conviction, or guilt. It often omits any need of, or provision for, forgiveness. It can lack relationship – particularly with a God who is greater than us and worthy of honor.
At first glance such expressions of spirituality may look good or even honorable. We must remember, though, that these are far from Christian. At best, they are weak substitutes, and at worst they can be quite dangerous and enslaving counterfeits. Engaging with spiritual forces that are not in agreement with the Living God is to connect with malevolent spirits. There are only two spiritual kingdoms. So, we must be clear as to which kingdom and what kind of spiritual help we are seeking.
In Christ we seek the Kingdom of God and the will of the Father. We learn to submit our will and our ways to Him, not for the purpose of self-improvement, but as an act of worship and obedience. (Matthew 6:9-10) Our life purpose is to be conformed to the image of Christ, not to get help to be what we want to be apart from Him. (2 Corinthians 3:18) We seek the person and power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish these things in and through us. We do not seek the help of vague religions or unnamed (or self-named) spirits.
As you have opportunity today, take time to clarify your allegiance to the Kingdom of God and to worship of the triune God. Declare that your desire is to be transformed and conformed to the image and purposes of Jesus Christ.
~ Coach Tom
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