Counsel of Spiritual Life

Counsel #23 — Negativism and Apathy

Picture: Counsel #23 — Negativism and Apathy CSL 40.1

Like weeds can choke a plant, some things can weaken our connection with Jesus. Two of these "weeds" are negativism and apathy. CSL 40.2

Negativism is like always seeing the dark cloud in the sky. When we focus on what's wrong instead of what's good, it makes it hard to see the good things Jesus is doing in our lives and the love He has for us. Negativity blocks out the joyful sunshine of His presence. CSL 40.3

Apathy is like forgetting to water the plant. When we are apathetic towards our relationship with Jesus, we don't spend time with Him in prayer or reading the Bible. We might go through the motions of being a Christian, but our hearts aren't really engaged. This lack of attention makes our connection weak and dry, and it can't grow stronger. CSL 40.4

Think of Jesus as the special food that nourishes our relationship with Him. Just like we need physical nourishment to give us energy and strength, we need Jesus to give us spiritual life and strength.²³ CSL 40.5

“For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” John 6:33 NKJV CSL 40.6

“The plant, the child, grows by receiving from its surroundings that which ministers to its life—air, sunshine, and food. What these gifts of nature are to animal and plant, such is Christ to those who trust in Him.” Ellen White in Steps to Christ, pp. 68, 69 CSL 40.7

Reflect: How could the Holy Spirit help you counteract negative thoughts and cultivate a greater sense of spiritual hunger in your daily walk with Christ? CSL 40.8