HOW ARE YOU FEELING?
(Ephesians 4:19)
Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
The Greek word translated "past feeling" means "to be apathetic". In other words, someone who is apathetic is indifferent or non-responsive. The senses are dead.
In this passage, Paul is addressing the Ephesians regarding their current state. In the process, he describes the state of the unregenerate -- those who do not know God. Though Paul is describing the state of the sinner, the issue of "apathy" is of great importance to the Christian. The operative question today is, "HOW ARE YOU FEELING?"
Are you sensitive about the things of God? Are you sensitive concerning the things going on in your life? Do you find that things that once troubled your spirit are becoming or are already common place in your life? Do you "let things slide" that you used to be very adamant about? If this is the case, you are "losing the feeling in your heart" concerning the things of Christ. Apathy is settling in.
The enemy seeks to "draw" Christians into states of apathy. If unsaved people increase ungodliness through apathy, so also can we. This can happen if we allow ourselves to become involved in things that deaden the senses -- watching the wrong types of movies, listening to the wrong types of music, participating in compromising activities, having the wrong types of friends and associates, etc. More specific, you say? Soap operas deaden the senses. Television shows about the occult deaden the senses. Movies with a lot of killing and bloodshed (e.g., horror films) are problematic. Music that highlights issues that are not pleasing in the sight of God pose a problem. People in our lives that don't allow the word of God to shape their morals and conscience are a threat. We could go on and on, but you get the picture (I hope).
Another term is used to describe apathy....lukewarmness. This refers to something that was once hot and has cooled down. If your level of sensitivity is not what it should be, God is revealing that to you so that you might overcome. If this is you, please know and understand that you didn't view this message by chance. It is time to seek the Lord and call upon His name. Ask God to enlarge your heart concerning Him. Ask God to give you wisdom and strength to fight the good fight of faith. Victory is still within reach!!! As you press toward the Lord, you'll begin to notice the apathy disappearing. You'll begin to respond properly concerning the things of God. You'll start recognizing the hand of God as in times past. You'll link up with the calling of Jesus Christ.
May God richly bless and keep you.
