Post by: Jono Lin
In contemporary Christian circles, the term ‘idolatry’ is often used to only describe inanimate objects that are listed in scripture. We usually discuss the plight of the Israelites and struggle to relate to the fervor of physical idol worship. However, it is not too difficult draw applicable meaning for our own lives. There are vast amounts of resources on the internet where idolatry is discussed further in depth, but I wanted to focus on specific areas where I feel the Millennial Generation is typically consumed. Through my own trials and fights against the threat of idolatry, I was able to find solace in God’s saving grace (1 Timothy 1:15). This is the final segment of our three-part series. (Part 1, Part 2)
Happiness
While relationships and career are certainly a big focus for millennials, I would categorize these two idols under the umbrella of ‘happiness,’ which is a one-size-fits-all in terms of humanity. Nobody wants to be suffering in pain or miserable everyday; we all want to be happy! True happiness is the standard that we all strive for the most, but it is also the one that most often eludes our grasp. It is the epitome of what everyone desires, yet cannot seem to fulfill. Everyone on earth seeks happiness and it is certainly idolized. And yet, it's ironic that during our pursuit of happiness, we become discouraged when our expectations of happiness are not met.
Think of what would make your situation in life the most ideal. Now once you have your dream career, dream spouse, perfect health, perfect family, and most desirable lifestyle fully locked in your mind, try to make your fantasy situation even better. Chances are, you can! Now, you can keep trying to further improve each scenario, but ultimately, you will realize the futility in attempting to create such an ideal situation. This is because there is always something better! There is no limit to our desires because what we currently desire will certainly be surpassed by whatever else comes along. As we can see, our personal happiness can be extremely volatile. It is evident that pursuing happiness leads to an infinite loop of desire for greater happiness, which can eventually lead to perpetual discontentment.
The good news is that Jesus Christ in His wisdom has already asked this question: “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” (Mark 8:36). Even if we have everything we could ever want in the world, it’s obvious that it’s never enough. We have established that true happiness cannot be found within ourselves, because we’re always desiring more. We also reasoned that all the relationships, careers, and riches in life also won’t make us truly happy. Thankfully, Jesus also gave us the answer to the question of happiness and completeness: Himself! In the gospel of John it is written: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Here, the “thief” refers to anything other than Jesus Christ. Because of His great love, Christ came to give us Himself so that we may have life and be fulfilled through Him.
Now, I am not saying that we should hope and strive for a life of mediocrity. Rather, let us continue working hard in all things for the glory of God (Colossians 3:17). If things don’t turn out the way we want them to, let us continue praying for an attitude of gratitude for all that we have already been given.
Everyone is imperfect in one way or another, because of sin. Even for us Bible-believing Christians, every day is a battlefield where we confront sin by God’s grace and do our best to love God and others around us. We all must be reminded that true happiness is found only by trusting in God and His providence. He promises to take care of us. Anything else, whether it be relationships, higher social standings, higher salary, etc., is simply icing on the cake. Truly, by knowing Christ and living out His will, that is how true happiness for all of eternity is acquired.
Do you know Him today?
In Humility,
Jono
Jono Lin's mission in life is to share that there's a God who has not stopped loving people, even before their conception at birth! He has served in churches in various capacities with wide variety of ethnicities, and desires to bring biblical truth to contemporary culture. He believes that a strong witness and genuine relationships are absolutely essential in order to really love others. He believes that there is more to life than meets the eye and desires that all people come to know Jesus Christ.