Church

CAPA Corner: Why Do We Do The Things We Do?

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    Why do we do the things that we do? Big question, right? It's been asked of me too many times to count and in such a variety of ways. My favorite is, "Are you outta your mind? Why did you do that?" That one is my wife's go-to line.
    This question before us though, is actually quite serious when it comes to our faith. Why, as a follower of Jesus, do we do the things that we do? The answers can help us discover why it becomes so difficult for us to change even when we clearly recognize the need.
    Experts tell us that we have somewhat of a mob mentality. In other words, many of us are prone to go with the crowd. This happens, they tell us, because we have a tendency to surround ourselves with people and information that matches what we already believe. We've stacked the deck, so to speak. Meaning, when others of like mind make a decision it makes sense for us to follow suit. How could it not? Another reason is that our comfort level is important to us. It can be quite the motivator. When we feel it, even subconsciously, we stop and drop anchor hoping not to move.
    The mind can be a tricky obstacle to overcome. But we must recognize that there are actual commands from our Lord that call us to live against the grain. For example, He tells us to love beyond human reason.
Commands us to forgive beyond convention and sends us out with His message no matter the cost to us. This type of following requires self denial and oddly enough individualistic  thinking. The question is, "why are you doing the things that you do"?
Dale Phillips
Comite Baptist