The Danger of Drifting

As we gathered yesterday with the church, the text we were diving into was Hebrews 2:1-4. This particular text is an exhortation and a warning to us about the danger of drifting away from the gospel, drifting away from Christ. The danger of drifting is a real temptation for every Christian. It is a danger to be avoided at all costs. It is a temptation that is to be expected from all directions. Drifting is the natural result of neglect. The reality of drifting can happen to individuals, and it can happen to churches.

Here are some symptoms that a personal spiritual drift is in progress: (compiled from various sources)

• when Jesus isn’t as great as he used to be
• when the cross of Christ is no longer amazing
• when the songs we sing are just routine
• when we just go through the motions of religious activity
• when we no longer desire the word of God
• when we really don’t pray in the Spirit
• when we have little concern that we might actually be drifting
• when we are chasing the glitz of the world

Here are some symptoms that a church-wide spiritual drift is in progress: (compiled from various sources)

• when a church becomes more focused on the organization rather than the people
• when a church becomes inwardly focused
• when pleasing the members becomes more important than the people the church wants to reach
• when appearances become more important than reality
• when traditions and programs become more important than seeing lives changed by Jesus
• when budgets & buildings become the mission rather than tools to accomplish the mission

From a devotional our church is using right now, Arise, there was this quote that connects drifting with apathy & complacency: "When apathy and complacency are present, our love for spiritual things wanes and our desire to walk in Christ's mission subsides."

Now, what do you do when you recognize the drift is taking place?

First, Return. Return to your first love (Revelation 2:1-7). Returning requires repentance. 

Second, Renew. Renew your covenant commitment to Jesus as Lord.

Third, Refocus. Refocus your attention on the kingdom of God as your #1 priority.

Have you begun to drift? Has your church begun to drift? Are you in the midst of a spiritual drift?