Focusing on the here and now instead of the distant and later
Gratification comes easy to us these days. Post a picture on Instagram, and after a few hours you can feel that gratification and validation that comes from a simple number next to a heart symbol.
Nothing is wrong with getting some likes on Instagram, but we shouldn’t settle for so little. We make seeking validation on social media our priority when we ignore the joys of spending time, actually spending time, with the people around us. Not going out with friends only for everyone to spend most of the time looking at their phones or posting pictures for likes from other people who aren’t there.
Look. COVID-19 is coming to an end. Vaccines are rolling out, and it seems like any day now we’ll be able to spend time in public with friends and family again. Let’s take advantage of this opportunity to redefine what normal life looks like and stop living for the distant gratification of people through a screen.
What you give attention to directs you
It’s simple. What you feed your mind becomes what your mind wants. If you spend a lot of time looking for satisfaction and gratification on your smartphone, then that’s all your mind will want. Jesus wants us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves, and while it’s possible to do kind things on social media for other people or raise awareness for social issues, it can’t replace the personal connection people can have with other real people.
And it’s not just social media that’s a culprit. What else do you give your attention to? Do you play video games all day? Do you watch Netflix for hours? Are you constantly seeking satisfaction from pornography?
The more you throw yourself at something, the more of yourself will stick to it. It’s time to stop letting distractions take over your life and focus on actually growing yourself into a healthier, stronger, wiser human being.
At Centerpoint, we don’t have all the answers or the perfect life path to follow, but we do try to be better people every day as we strive to grow closer to God and follow in the image of Jesus. We hope you want to try to do the same with us.
Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey
At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. We are currently going through a new sermon series titled “To Hell With Normal.” It’s all about redefining what we consider normal in life as we seek to make our lives more like the way Jesus would have them to be.
Do you want to grow in your faith or are simply curious about who this Jesus guy is? You’re not alone. We encourage you to listen to our series online and welcome you to come to one of our Sunday morning services in Valrico, Florida.