LOVERS OF PLEASURE RATHER THAN LOVERS OF GOD

 

You shall succeed where others have failed because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional: LOVERS OF PLEASURE RATHER THAN LOVERS OF GOD

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
“Lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.” — 2 Timothy 3:4
   Paul describes a dangerous condition that would characterize the last days. The problem is not that pleasure exists, but that pleasure becomes more important than God. The Greek expression 'philēdonoi' means “lovers of pleasure,” while 'mallon' means “more” or “rather than.”    Paul warns against a heart that chooses self-gratification over devotion and obedience to God.
    Jesus warned, “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21). The question is not, “Can I enjoy this?” but, “Does this enjoyment draw me closer to God or gradually take His place?”
    God is not against legitimate enjoyment. “God…giveth us richly all things to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17). Family, food, recreation, possessions, and celebrations can be received with thanksgiving. The issue is priority.
PRACTICAL SIGNS OF MISPLACED PLEASURE
+You consistently choose entertainment over prayer, Bible reading, or fellowship with God.
+You spend more time pursuing comfort than pursuing spiritual growth.
+You become irritated when something interferes with your enjoyment but remain unconcerned when your relationship with God is neglected.
+You spend freely on personal pleasures but struggle to give  your new testament tithes (1corinthians 16:1-2 Galatians 6:6) ) to God and help others.
+You compromise biblical convictions because you do not want to miss an experience or satisfy a desire.
+Your happiness depends more on possessions, entertainment, relationships, food, or social approval than on God.
+You have time for what you enjoy but continually claim you have no time for God.
+You seek God's blessings more passionately than you seek God Himself.
   Job's children enjoyed feasting together (Job 1:4–5) , but Job remained concerned about their relationship with God, and they unfortunately became easy prey to the devil . Pleasure becomes dangerous when God's gifts become greater to us than the Giver.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and power to overcome temptation. Lord, help me enjoy Your blessings without allowing them to replace You. May You remain my greatest treasure and highest love. Amen.
+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com
Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays