Some people think that God exists for them, and not the other way around.

In effect, their brain says, “I refuse to acknowledge and serve God, but I insist that he acknowledge and serve me.”

I remember talking to someone who didn’t believe in God, learn about God, or follow God. But when something bad happened to him he was sure that, if there was a God, it was surely his fault! How dare a God he didn’t believe in not make his life go smoothly!

I realize there are times when you truly wrestle in your relationship with God. But that’s not what I’m talking about here. And I also realize that God doesn’t only acknowledge or help you if you kindly jump through hoops A, B and C.

I simply encourage you ponder your own attitude. Do you refuse to truly acknowledge and serve God in your daily life and decisions, but still insist that he acknowledge and serve you?

I doubt that many of us would admit that we think or act like this. But it’s something we need to guard against. In our highly individualistic and me-first society, it’s easy to take the bait and think of God like our own glorified errand boy.

The prophet Samuel’s words in 1 Samuel 12:24 continue to resonate: “be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.”

So today, as you say your prayers, make decisions, and go about your day, ask yourself this:

Am I trying to serve God, or am I just trying to get God to serve me?

By Matthew Ruttan

–Bible quote are from the NIV.