Is Fast Food Killing Your Christianity?
As a child, one of my favorite places to eat was Wendy’s, particularly for their triple cheeseburger meal. The food was always hot and fresh, and the fries were delicious. Reflecting now, I realize it wasn't the healthiest choice (LOL), but to a kid, it was quick and tasty.
Fast food has become an integral part of American life, instilling in us the expectation of getting what we want quickly and exactly how we want it. This mindset can inadvertently impact our spiritual growth.
While this may sound exaggerated, consider the accelerated pace of life today. It's not just the food industry—nearly every aspect of our lives promises instant gratification. Whether it’s a miracle pill for weight loss or a product claiming to change our lives forever, we can usually get what we want rapidly, often within a day courtesy of services like Amazon.
I am not saying that I am opposed to the future of convenience in all areas of life, but the ability to have everything immediately and customized poses challenges to our spiritual journey. This can lead to anxiety, especially when we become impatient with Jesus when things don’t align with our desires.
Our impatience can breed anxiety when expectations aren't met. The Bible offers wisdom on managing anxiety in Philippians 4:6-7:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Developing a strong relationship with Jesus requires patience and trust, which stand in stark contrast to today's fast-paced world. Patience and trust are cultivated through regular, meaningful time spent with God, where we follow His lead. By aligning our spiritual journey with His timing, we discover unparalleled contentment that can also be applied to other areas of life, especially when things don't go as planned.
Additionally, it serves as a powerful witness to others; when people observe a follower of Christ handling everyday challenges with peace and grace, it highlights the strength that comes from a fulfilling relationship with Jesus.