a little gecko blog

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life that isolates itself from meaningful relationships is morally at risk. Having few valued relationships leaves us with little reason to deny ourselves. This accounts for the rapid deterioration of the moral fabric of American society. A life that has not cultivated a personal relationship with Christ is particularly vulnerable. We Americans have valued a kind of individualism that fosters isolation.

       We have told each other that the only thing that really counts is individual happiness. We construe unhappiness as reasonable grounds for divorce, abortion, indeptedness, sexual experimentation, addiction and a slew of other unguided urges that will further alienate us from God and other people. We surround ourselves with a getto of one. The more apart we feel, the more we seek to satisfy ourselves in destructive patterns that distance us even further from the protective cover of treasured relationships.

       Followers of Christ suppress their instinct for instant gratification in favor of the deeper pleasure of a growing relationship with Him. This in turn puts us in a special union with others who follow Him. We must consecrate ourselves to a growing relationship with Him and His followers, which then supplies us with resources for radical reformation of our lives. It is not codes, inner enlightenment, morals, religious systems, famous preachers or humanity centered platitudes. It is Christ. Because I am His, I gladly sit as His feet, surrender, and serve.

Adapted from “Following Christ” Chapter 6 by Joseph Stowell.