6 Faith Drainers

 We say we want to increase our faith, but while we are in the process of doing that, are we mindful of the many ways we can be losing faith. People, behaviors and habits can cause you to weaken in your faith walk. Apostle Paul knew that circumstances potentially negatively impact us. That is why he warns Timothy to "fight a good fight," holding on to faith and a good conscience (1 Timothy 1:18-19).

When you lose your faith, you begin doubting your assignment,  ability to accomplish it, and question your overall effectiveness. These doubts are tools used by the enemy to hinder or prevent you from fulfilling your duty. Doubts increase the probability that you will never reach your full potential. It is up to you to cast down every negative thought not aligned with the Word of God and guard your faith. Why? Because, as you entertain doubts, it drains your confidence, your faith, and ultimately can derail you, and before you know it, you have abandoned your assignment altogether.  

So, let's take a look at a few faith drainers:

1. Excessively Loving the Things of This World

We can become complacent about the importance of spending time with God and can be drawn away by personal habits and hobbies. It begins quite innocently.  However, these subtle distractions make us miss warning signals and before we know it, we are in the danger zone.  What once was a few minutes on Candy Crush or Words with Friend is now  a full-blown addiction. You find yourself spending hours with games trying to go to the next level, get the highest score or anxiously looking for responses from multiple partners. Or, you might be the person checking Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Tik Tok, or sending Snapchats. The list is almost endless, you know how you spend your time. What’s your game? 

 “Thy Shalt Have No Other gods Before Me!” Have we made too much out of these things? Would it affect you to go on a without Social Media and Technology for a few days? Would you go into withdrawal? Or, feel isolated? I understand that technology is an integral part of the workplace and all that we do,  but,  turn it off when you get home and spend time engaged in family matters and spending time with God? Just a thought.

The Bible says,  “Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15). 

2. Neglect Studying the Word

 “Out of sight out of mind” is a common phrase.  It is one that I think is applicable here, if we are not careful, that can happen with the Word of God. There was a time when Bibles were seen in almost every households. Often, prominently placed on a coffee table or visible on a shelf. Now, with technology, we seldom see or pick up a Bible, instead we may use our phones or iPad. Nonetheless, we shouldn’t neglect reading Scripture.  We still need a constant refill of God’s Word in order to hear His directives, and have His principles embedded into our heart.  Regularly reading the Bible builds your faith. And, although some passages are difficult to understand, there are many versions of the Bible and commentaries that will you clarify them.  Do your due diligence, read and pray for understanding.

3. Personal Feelings

You may be in a situation where you feel dismissed and all alone. Your feelings may get in the way; so, begin reciting scripture that applies to your situation.  This reinforces the promises of God and helps to dispel your feelings of doubt. You may experience a period when you do feel the presence of God. This may cause you to question your spirituality.  It is at times like these when you must trust what the Bible says.  Trust the Word and not your feelings. Know that He will never leave or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). Hold on to that thought and take steps to your faith.  Your blessing is discovering God's truth through His Word.  

4. Worry

There is a song that says if you pray, don't worry. We realize that worry is counter-intuitive to prayer and that prayer without faith is futile. Doesn’t that make sense? Why pray if you have no FAITH.  It is only natural to be concerned about things in life but that is much different than worrying. As with all things, there can be varying degrees of worry and its  impact on people. Stressing causes some to overeat while others may lose their appetite.  Worry can elevate blood pressure and cause other associated health and mental health issues. Let’s be clear, the amount of your worry reflects on your inability to trust Romans 8:28. To become good at anything, you must practice and train.  Commit to training your faith muscle? 

5. Circle of Friends

You may have heard that you are the average of the five people you spend most of your time. If that is the case, look around.  Where is their faith-walk? Is the average of your five where you want to be? Are they the kind of people that will help; you grow spiritually? Or, are their behaviors and words draining your faith? At this point, might I suggest that if you are seriously looking to improve your faith-walk, consider spending time with those who can inspire and help sharpen your faith? People who will challenge you to grow spiritually are good company Proverbs 27:17).  Friend that complain, criticize, or readily gossip are faith drainers. Remember, it is up to you to protect your faith.

6. Self-Reliance

We live in a world where independence is desired and praised We are taught to be self-sufficient, educated and are knowledgeable in many areas. We have incomes that allow us to feel a sense of stability and become competent decision-makers. However, all those things lend us to self-sufficiency, causes up to forget an important fact. It is by God's grace that we have what we have. He is in ultimate control of all things. Our blessings come from the Father.