Healthy Faith
April 17, 2023

Obsession Redeemed

The Driven Man's Obsession - In the innermost recesses of my being, I am an intensely passionate man.

Obsession Redeemed

A relentless force, propelled by the unquenchable desire to achieve, to excel, and to be acknowledged for my accomplishments. I crave the sweet taste of triumph, the deafening applause, and the tangible rewards of my toil. I am a man consumed by obsession.

I am convinced that our Heavenly Father appreciates such driven individuals and actively seeks them out. He beckons us to be filled with zeal and focus, but too often, we lose sight of the true objective. We become entrapped by the transient allure of worldly success, captivated by the ephemeral satisfaction it provides.

The Narrow Path to Victory

Ponder the verse that cautions against gaining the whole world yet forfeiting one's soul (Matthew 16:26). Our Father implores us not to be swayed by distractions to our left or right but to remain unwavering in our pursuit of His Word, as counseled in Proverbs 4.

20 My son, be attentive to my words;

incline your ear to my sayings.

21 Let them not escape from your sight;

keep them within your heart.

22 For they are life to those who find them,

and healing to all their flesh.

23 Keep your heart with all vigilance,

for from it flow the springs of life.

24 Put away from you crooked speech,

and put devious talk far from you.

25 Let your eyes look directly forward,

and your gaze be straight before you.

26 Ponder the path of your feet;

then all your ways will be sure.

27 Do not swerve to the right or to the left;

turn your foot away from evil.

He calls on us to fixate our gaze upon Him and traverse the narrow path that leads to victory in the race set before us. This divine command defies worldly expectations, for in submitting our hearts to Christ, we often relinquish the accolades our society bestows.

Reflect on the verse that predicts persecution for those who follow Christ, for the world despised Him and will deride His disciples (John 15: 18-20). The mere mention of Jesus Christ, the most contentious name in history, sparks rejection and persecution against His dedicated followers.

Choosing Our Obsession

Ultimately, as fiercely passionate men, we must select our obsession. Will we devote our minds, hearts, and efforts to the evanescent praise of our peers, fleeting fame, and the amassing of material wealth? Or will we yield entirely to the One who fashioned our minds, instilled our hearts, and granted us the very breath of life? Will we trust in His promises and fix our hearts upon the exalted name of Jesus Christ?

Shall we follow the transient leaders of this world or the eternal Architect who laid down His life for our redemption? If obsession is our nature, let it be with Christ and the will of our Heavenly Father. Let us not resist His divine call but welcome the Holy Spirit to reside within our hearts. I have made my choice. Now I ask you, what will you be obsessed with? For we are all consumed by something. Ensure that your obsession is truly worthy. Let us rise and embrace the eternal!