It’s easy to lose a direct focus on the Savior, casting my vision on earthly distractions or myself. Routines can become monotony, without the passion that was once present. Just like the Hebrews in the Old Testament, who had witnessed miraculous interventions and strong leadership, they forgot all about the demonstration of God’s grace. Routines become obligations without much thought. Habits become stale. Church attendance and doing good deeds become strained effort if the testimonial stories are never gold. Celebrations of baptism and child dedications are no longer important milestones to growth.
Obligation seems void of the unconditional love demonstrated by Christ. Being obliged to do something is motivated by guilt, or by the fear of what others might think. Being passionate about a goal is full of commitment and a higher purpose than selfish gain.
Symptoms of a faith motivated by obligation are: 1) no testimonies or stories being shared about the Lord’s leading, ) no child dedications - . Celebrations of a commitment to be a godly parent with church support, 3) no baptisms - celebrations of a conversion and sanctification.
Obligation is not much different than a faith built on works, earning our way, comparing our inner circle to those who are not in the circle, a holy huddle fearing the outside world.
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