An Illicit Diversion

In his book Christianity for Modern Pagans (basically his commentary on Pascal’s Pensees) philosopher Peter Kreeft offers his insights on why we create diversions in our lives, which might explain why porn is the “diversion” of choice for so many. Here’s a quote from his book:

"Diversions greatest danger is that it acts like a sedative; it keeps us just content enough so that we don't make waves and seek a real cure. It deadens our spiritual nerves, it muffles our alarm system. A little respectable religion acts in the same way: as a mild dose of the infection, which builds up antibodies in us to shield us against the real thing. The devil loves a little religion. He doesn't want us to be too bored and too miserable-yet."

I’ve always said that the enemy doesn’t have to get us involved in gross sin he just has to get us distracted enough that we don’t even realize how far off track we’ve gone. Porn is just a major distraction, an "illicit diversion" that seduces us into taking our eyes off the prize. Paul’s encouragement in I Corinthians 9:24 reminds us that we can’t get distracted by diversions, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” It’s that last part that hints at our vulnerability to illicit diversions. In other words don’t run as if to say, “well if I get there I get there, but I may as well have some fun along the way!” Paul is saying run with a single-minded devotion to obtaining the prize.

That isn’t to say that all diversions are bad. The reality is that in the busy, often chaotic world of ministry we need some “holy” diversions (sports, movies, writing, art, hobbies) in order to remain healthy and effective. But often I’ve found myself seeking diversions that are more about indulgence than recreation or restoration. Lets keep our EYES on the prize!

Courage,

Bernie

Kristian wrote on June 9th 08 at 11:31PM

Thank you for a wonderful reflection. May God shake us from sedation and wake us from complacency

kevin nichol wrote on June 11th 08 at 05:22PM

Hi, I would have to say that this teaching hit me right between the eyes. Diversion is such a great way to describe the process of being seduced by many "little sins". I am weakest when I am easily disstracted by little diversions!

Neal wrote on June 12th 08 at 12:13AM

AMEN!
I have to agree with the assesment that we often think the distraction is o.k. as long as we don't get into any "gross" sin.
May the Lord open our eyes to the fact that anything that distracts us from Him is an idol.

Rich wrote on July 4th 08 at 09:32AM

Forgot second part in earlier post... We are sinners in recovery - Thank God for His amazing grace! Stay focused, brothers...