Addressing Our Affectionsಮಾದರಿ

When we address our affections, we tend to overcorrect—assuming we must fix our priorities by doing more. We work harder, serve longer, and crowd our schedules with spiritual disciplines. Over time, this can lead to subtle legalism, where Bible reading and spiritual practices become tasks rather than ways to depend on God.

Doing more can look faithful, but it can also be dangerous. Spiritual activity does not always equal spiritual dependence.

Spiritual practices can shape our habits without ever transforming our hearts—especially when they replace reliance on God instead of deepening it. Scripture gives us a clear picture of this in the account of Mary and Martha. While Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, Martha was distracted by all that needed to be done. Her service was not wrong, but her attention was divided. She believed the most important thing was what she could do for Jesus, rather than being with Him.

If we are not careful, we fall into the same trap. We begin to measure our faithfulness by how much we serve, how much we read, or how much we know. We build a quiet pride around our spiritual productivity, all while missing deeper intimacy with God. Jesus warns of this in Matthew 7, when many will stand before Him listing their spiritual accomplishments—only to hear the sobering words, “I never knew you.” It is a frightening reminder that faith is not ultimately about activity, but about relationship.

I remember a moment when I was preparing to do something I believed was “productive for the Lord.” Whether it was a sermon or a devotional, I can’t recall. As I always do, I began by praying. In that moment, I sensed the Holy Spirit gently say, “I don’t need you to do anything—just rest in My presence.” So I did. I stopped planning, stopped producing, and simply sat with Him. That moment was both sobering and freeing—and yes, it even led to one of the best naps I’ve ever had.

I share this to encourage you. As you address your affections, remember: more than what you do for God, He desires time with you. You may have been running, striving, and measuring devotion by output. Today may be your invitation to rest—not as laziness, but as trust. True dependence starts when we stop proving devotion and remain in His presence.

Reflection Questions:
When you think about your spiritual life, do you tend to measure faithfulness by what you do for God or by how much you depend on Him? What indicators in your life point to one more than the other?

Have you ever noticed moments where busyness in ministry or spiritual disciplines replaced time simply being with God? What did that season reveal about your heart?

What would it look like this week to practice a spiritual discipline that cultivates dependence rather than productivity?