Another discussion I had on Christmas with my uncle, though not specifically related, also sheds some light on this. He is a professor at Penn State University and was telling me that he takes video footage of different student activities and things, like the new freshman playing Frisbee, etc, but no one ever wants to watch any of it. So, I told him he just needed to ramp it up a little make the clips shorter, fast paced and add exciting, fist pumping music, then everyone would want to see it, even if they didn't really know what it was they were watching. To this he replied, "I have a bit a of a moral problem with that." I think he's right, and I think we do that with our relationship with God.
Worship is a good example of where this pitfall is most evident. Sometimes it's like we're just looking for our next "spiritual high." You know the feeling, were you get really emotional, get some shivers going and some goose bumps. Doesn't that mean you're really worshiping? I'm sure it could, but I don't think it's exclusive. If you feel like you haven't worshiped God unless you get those feelings, I think there is a problem. We can't base our relationship with God just on what we feel at the moment. A lot more goes into it like our attitude and our actions. There is a lot more to say on this subject but I'll leave it here for the time being. I'd like to hear what you think.
Interessttinngggggg. Emotion is something that I have put quite a bit of thought into. I think emotion can give us a false sense of satisfaction, like we accomplished something but we actually didn't. I also think that when used correctly it can help us accomplish what we need to. Its a delicate balance, that seems to change with every situation. Because feelings are untrustworthy, I think the trick is to have a realistic view on every situation regardless of the level of emotion. Although emotions are unstable, I think the balance is necessary, I don't want to be a robot!
ReplyDeleteVery good cogitation Cam. When i grow up i want to be able to think like you.
ReplyDelete"Worship is a good example of where this pitfall is most evident." Very good observation. 'we're JUST looking for our next "spiritual high."' Ah, now that's the difference, JUST.
1. An intellectual encounter with God may well result in an emotional experience/expression. When we, through music or message, catch a glimpse of his love, forgiveness or expectation of holy living or conviction of sin; there may be tears, trembling or smiles. The point is, the emotion is a product or result of interacting with the Father. Some may seek the "spiritual high" with no intent of engaging with God. How do you discern between these two emotional people? I don't think observation alone is adequate. A friend-based conversation should yield progress.
2. There's an element of instruction in a Sun. morning worship hour, (cf. Eph 5.19). A skilled instructor will not only appeal intellectually to people but will also engage their emotions. To rely too heavily on the emotions is abuse and part of the in-balance whatsaMariah refers to above.
P.S. Worship is our response to God's series of invitations. The Sunday morning hour is one hour of the 24-7 deal.