As I was driving home from morning prayer today, I heard a song on the Christian radio that really spoke to me. In the last couple of weeks, I have been speaking a lot (via sermon, blog, meetings with people, etc) on this whole topic of self-centered Christianity that is pervading the Church. In fact, I will go further and say that this is one of the reasons why we are seeing a lot of unhealthy churches around the world, particularly in the United States.
Somewhere down the line we have to come to the realization that Christianity is not about me but it has a lot to do with God and His glory. Until we die to this undercurrent of selfishness and me-centered Christianity, we are going to lose our power and anointing to live out the Gospel message.
This is why when I heard this song, it spoke to me powerfully.
The song is called, “Bring the Rain” by Mercy Me. The lyrics go like this:
Maybe since my life was changed
Long before these rainy days
It’s never really ever crossed my mind
To turn my back on you, oh Lord
My only shelter from the storm
But instead I draw closer through these times
So I pray
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings
You glory And I know there’ll
be days When this life brings me pain
But if that’s what it takes to
praise You Jesus, bring the rain
I am yours regardless of the clouds that may
loom above because you are much greater than
my pain you who made a way for me suffering
your destiny so tell me what’s a little rain
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
is the lord God almighty
is the lord God almighty
I’m forever singing
What would it be like if we had this kind of theology?! In our selfishness and me-centered Christianity, we do not welcome pain and suffering. It is all about prosperity and feeling good. I am wonder if this is why so many people “fall away” from Christ when the first sign of hardships or trials come. We need to raise up a different kind of generation that will endure hardships and still learn to give God glory regardless of the circumstances. This kind of attitude shows a person who is consumed with God’s holiness and glory. May we have this kind of passion and pursuit.
Here is a video of the song with some inspiring pictures to remind us of the truth.