Her face exuded doubt. Her question was blunt but honest. With a pierced tongue she asked, “Is the Bible relevant for my life? After all, the Bible is ancient!?”
We will search the scriptures in vain to discover: gaming addiction, road rage, compulsive consumerism and anorexia. The list goes on.
Yet, scripture does provide guidance for modern living. Its principles, teachings and commands address those underlying sources which erupt through multiple manifestations in modern life. Consider Betty’s story.
At times Betty found herself feeling a bit down. Long ago she discovered shopping helped her to feel better. Making purchases became a form of self-medication. Unfortunately, the good feelings would give way to feeling empty or to repetitive dark thoughts.
Her need to shop increased. However, this created new complications such as financial stress and feelings of guilt. Her solution had only exasperated her need to shop.
Scripture provides answers for such modern problems. Her story most likely fits into a typical narrative. It goes something like this. Growing up she began to believe that her self-worth, security, purpose, identity or dignity were based upon one or more things within this world. This might have included achievement, possessions, friendships, opinions of others, her appearance, etc.
She worked hard to acquire what she believed she needed. This created stress. Perhaps sometimes she achieved success which rewarded her with feeling good. However, tomorrow would require a new effort to achieve and obtain. Success along with its feelings were temporary; they were not a permanent solution.
Furthermore, when she did not measure up or failed to obtain what she thought she needed, negative thoughts would begin to ruminate. These in turn led to negative feelings.
Jesus addressed the heart of modern living. By calling us to trust in God and in himself for our identity, security and eternal life, he released us from serving harsh, fickle and undependable masters within this world. For those who are in Christ, all of God’s promises are “Yes.” All of us can live fulfilled and meaningful lives. God knows what we need and God can provide.
Although none of us deserve God’s love, God’s love is poured out toward all of us, including Betty. He has provided the answer for our lives.
While scripture may not directly address the labels we slap upon modern problems, its message provides the balm for the blight of modern living. The answer is simple but not simplistic. Trust in Jesus. Allow God’s message to shape your understanding and your heart. It will change who we are, how we feel and what we do.
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