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Trap No. 2 - Pursuing Pleasure

But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.
2 Timothy 3:1

When we overindulge in anything it loses its ability to make us happy. Smart people regularly back away from life's banquet table so it stays fresh and exciting. Pleasure-seekers on the other hand, dive in and wring every drop of gratification from it. But it doesn't work and here's why: a) neurologically it overloads the brain's pleasure centers and depletes your feel-good neurotransmitters, serotonin and dopamine b) psychologically it creates unrealistic expectations and boredom c) physiologically, over-indulgence in anything (including food) creates tolerance, addiction, and health problems. Paul writes, "In the last days people will be lovers of pleasure..." And seemingly benign pleasures can be the most seductive. For instance, if you lie in a recliner every night watching TV and eating junk food, you may not think you're in danger. But think again. While over 60,000 Americans die each year from illegal drug use, over 600,000 die from overeating and inactivity. That's way too high a price to pay for something that doesn't buy long-term happiness. The Bible says, "your motive is wrong, you want only what will give you pleasure" (James 4:3). Lasting pleasure should be your reward, not your pursuit! Paul says, "Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to His cross" (Galatians 5:24). Do you do that daily? God's not against pleasure as long as you remember that it's the dessert - not the main course! The truth is true fulfillment can be found only in the center of God's will.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, keep me centered on you and your Kingdom! In Jesus' Name, Amen