Custom Search
|
|
The Paradox Of Materialism Vs. Spirituality
Materialism - a preoccupation with material objects, comforts, and considerations, with a disinterest in spiritual, intellectual, or cultural values. Spirituality - an emphasis on spiritual side of life, such as sacred matters in philosophy and religion. Each of these notions is the antithesis of the other; thinking one way opposes the other. Thus, they form a paradox. In Ch 3, I develop the idea of Self-Centeredness vs. God-Centeredness. These two thought processes are behind our tendencies towards materialism and spirituality in our lives. When someone is self-centered, they tend to focus on material objects. Often these comforts and considerations become false infinites, or cheap substitutes for God. Cars, money, houses, jewelry, Christian education – these are all easier to grasp, see, or obtain than a God that may not seem so easy to touch, see, or grasp. When one turns from a materialistic, self-centered emphasis in life to a God-centered, spiritual existence, these false infinites take a backseat to putting God’s plan for our lives first. When our lives are focused on God, our considerations become external – we think of others before ourselves and sacrifice our own comfort. Try thinking about the motives behind your actions today. Think and dwell on what God wants for your life. In a life of serving him, one may indeed gain material possessions as an offshoot of service. But, serve others because you are living a life centered on God. If material rewards surface, accept them because God also created pleasure. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as long as the labor is for God. For more information on Dr. Marvin Bittinger or his book, The Faith Equation: Mathematical Evidence for Christianity, visit www.thefaithequation.com. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com For more information on Dr. Marvin Bittinger or his book, The Faith Equation: Mathematical Evidence for Christianity, visit www.thefaithequation.com. |
|