by Victor M. Eskew

The most important aspect of our earthly life is its spiritual component.

It purifies the soul.

It matures the inner man.

It prepares the soul for eternity.

It protects one against Satan.

It teaches us the way of righteousness.

It develops our relationship with deity.

It molds us into the image of Jesus Christ.

It makes us loving, compassionate, and forgiving.

It provides peace and joy while living in an evil world.

Even though the spiritual component of our lives is the most important, there are many, many Christians who are willing to cut corners on it when necessary.

They will forsake worship services.

They will absent themselves from Bible study.

They will cut their contribution.

They will fail to participate in the works of the church.

They will put their study of the Bible on the back burner.

They will not be part of fellowship meals, picnics, etc.

They will refuse to use their talents for the church.

Why do we cut corners on the most important aspect of our earthly existence? Why do we cut corners on that element of life that involves our eternal destiny?

Could it be because there are no immediate consequences?

Could it be because death and eternity seem so far away?

Could it be because we love the earthly more than the spiritual?

Could it be because we mistake the urgent for the important?

Could it be because we feel God understands?

Could it be because we cherish the earthly rewards of life?

Could it be because we have little spiritual knowledge?

Could it be because Satan has deceived us?

Could it be because we fear man more than God?

Could it be because we want to please man more than God?

Could it be because our plans matter more than God’s will?

Could it be because our wisdom has replaced God’s wisdom?

Again, we ask: “Why do we cut corners on our spiritual lives?”