Consumerism has become so steeped in our Christian culture that we’ve now begun viewing our relationships through this unhealthy lens. We want what we want, and we want it now. Our unmet expectations cause us to become frustrated, bitter, and resentful with the people in our world. Our discipleship no longer has a framework for the difficulties which come as a result of our relationships taking place in a flawed world with flawed people, of which we are one. And even though the Apostle Peter advised, “don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you,” we act as if something strange were happening. When people don’t measure up to what we want or what protects our comfort, we lament asking God why he gave us that spouse, child, family member, boss, co-worker, neighbor, or friend. The reality is that our relationships aren’t commodities God’s given us for our will and pleasure. They are opportunities He’s given us to allow others to experience love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control through us. Our perspective needs to be that we live to serve others, not vice versa! Who are the channels of the life of Christ? We are. Who are the ministers of reconciliation? We are. Who are the slaves to righteousness, partakers of the divine nature, expressions of the life of Christ? WE ARE! The people in our world weren’t “given to us”, we were given to them! So how do we work against the consumerism plaguing our relationships? We quit pursuing what’s best for our comfort and posture ourselves to be the manifestation of the Kingdom, extending a gospel response. Then we will become people who are forgiving instead of grudge holders. Loving instead of spiteful and angry. Merciful instead of wrathful. And most importantly, we will actually live as though we believe the words of Jesus… it’s better to give than receive. Let’s release our consumeristic rights! Allow God to use the people in our world to take us where we don’t want to go in order to produce in us what we couldn’t achieve on our own – His character, His life, His image, His mission.
