The quick fix is rarely the right fix. But we look for shortcuts and gimmicks.
We live in an instant world. Throw your food in the microwave and it will be ready in a matter of a minute or two. But what you pull out of the microwave is rarely going to taste better than what you will pull out of the oven. You may have to wait longer for the oven but it will be a better experience.
America is the most heavily medicated country in the world. And the number one type of prescription drug is antidepressants. There are many times when these drugs are necessary. But there are plenty of situations where prescription drugs are a shortcut to putting in the hard work and doing what is necessary to feel better. But it is quicker and easier to take a pill.
I have people who come to ask for help. They are looking for a religious pill of sorts. They want a prayer, a Bible verse, a book to read that will fix everything. But many times we need to wrestle with God and the problem at hand. Yes, prayer will be involved. The Bible will be involved. Reading a book or two may be involved. But it will take discipline and faithfulness over time to work through the issue.
The mess was not created overnight. It was likely a slow fade. You drifted into the place you find yourself. Be prepared that it will take just as long to get out of that place as it took to get into that place. But through the struggle, we discover growth, receive insight, and are brought closer to God.
The issue with the quick fix is that it treats the symptoms rather than the cause of the issue. We may alleviate the symptoms to the problem. But the problem will continue to manifest itself in new ways.
There are a lot of people who think that money will fix their problems. But there have been more than a few instances of lottery winners, who get the quick fix, who find themselves after a few years right back in debt where they started. Money was not the issue, it was discipline with money that was issue.
Whatever struggle you are going through right now, know that there is a way. God will make a way. It may not be the easy path. It may not be the most convenient road. It may not be the shortest route. But know that there is a way because Jesus is the Way!
Brenda LoDrago says
Pastor Phil,
I appreciate every single post you have shared.
Thank you !