We know how important it is for us to be aware of the symptoms of disease. The signs indicating the possibility of cancer or some other malady may save our lives and/or those of our loved ones. To ignore these symptoms can be an extremely dangerous choice. Medical experts continually expend large amounts of funds on research hoping to warn our population of the symptoms that eventuate in life-threatening diseases.
There are also symptoms of spiritual disease, that of departing from the faith, and giving heed to these signs could well be the instrument by which our souls are saved eternally. Are any of the following signs of drifting away from Christ present in your life? Consider them before it is too late to arrest the disease. No disease of mankind is as serious as eternal damnation.
• Can you easily put hobbies, your work, TV or other activities ahead of your commitment to Christ?
• Is it becoming a bore for you to attend the assembly and worship God? Can you miss a Sunday without feeling guilty?
• Has Bible study been programmed out of your normal routine? Has it been a long time since you attended Bible class?
• Do you find yourself being critical of the song leaders, the preacher and teachers, the elders and deacons?
• When you do discuss the work and activities of the church, do you usually speak of them as something for other people?
• Do you suddenly realize that you give little of yourself, your time, your money and your energy for the work of the church?
• Does your conscience no longer bother you when you fail to do what God has commanded? Or when you commit overt sin?
• Do you feel no urgency to share the gospel with your friends, family and associates?
• Do you spend more money and time on golf, fishing, movies, computers or the racetrack than you give to God’s work?
• Have you found that most of your closest friends are not Christians, and that you have little interest in being with Christians?
If these symptoms are developing in your life, stop now and determine you will change your ways! Don’t delay!
-Carl B. Garner