Fox News had a report on spirituality in America. People are hungry for a connection with God and anywhere there is a hunger, someone is waiting to feed it; for a dollar or two. A web site called E-prayer has been created, where for 7 cents a day and you can pick a prayer that fits your personal need. You don’t have to come up with any words on your own, just repeat the prayer and you are good for the day. Romans 8:26 tells us that when we don’t know what to pray, the Spirit makes intercession for us, but somehow I don’t think this was in reference to E-prayer. On another site, the Lord’s Prayer is only $4.00 away. No memorization or strain on your vocal chords necessary. One commentator remarked, “This just doesn’t seem right.” Her newscast partner replied, “Well if it makes you feel good. Isn’t that what it’s all about anyway?”
The last statement paints the true picture of spirituality in America. I want a religion that makes me feel good but don’t expect me to put forth any effort. I believe this is what Paul speaks of in II Timothy 3:5, “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” My interpretation of this verse is “Connection without Commitment.”
We have become a connected society with no personal commitment. I sign on to Facebook every morning and connect with family and friends, then with a click of a button, turn them off and go on about my day. I control the emotional involvement; no tears when they are sad, no rejoicing when they are happy. I can’t even share a joke unless I add LOL at the end. I can pull up to a series of windows and complete my banking transactions, pick up a prescription, a meal and now even milk and bread. My only commitment is to place the money in a tube and push a button, while enjoying a praise and worship song or talk show; no need for a friendly smile, I’m communicating with a TV screen. We have been conditioned to conduct every area of our lives with as little commitment as possible. Maybe it will work with God too. I can log on read a devotional with a cute story and a scripture, pay $4.00 for a prayer on my smart phone as I drive to work.
What about feeling His touch, hearing that small still voice whisper direction for the day, tears rolling down our cheeks cleansing the junk we’ve accumulated throughout the day and the peace as we lie in our bed at night secure in His everlasting arms? There are times when a 7 cent prayer or even a $4.00 one won’t do the job. Sometimes I just need to pour my heart out to my Father, express my overwhelming gratitude for His unspeakable gifts and search His Word for specific direction. I love the connection that comes as a package deal with commitment. I am His and He is mine. Why settle for chump change when He is waiting to pour out blessing according to His riches in Glory!
