The ancient Hebrews believed that there is an evil (yetzer hara) and a good (yetzer hatov) inclination within us all. The battle against the evil inclination is often a losing one without the help of God.

Recent events has given me insight on the current condition of my soul. I realize that I was being mislead by my close friends and myself.

My close friends, by no fault of their own, encouraged me to relax a little and play an old game with them. I was already stretched on time with little to almost none left for the Kingdom of God. After weeks of consideration I caved and agreed to play but on one condition. They would have a bible study session with me on Sunday mornings.

I played with them for a week and it was enjoyable. The best part was catching up with friends like old times.

Then Sunday morning came. 9:30 AM as the time set for bible study. 9 AM rolls along, I sent a message in group chat as a reminder and I got prepared. 9:30 AM came and gone.

I realized my error and 2 Verses came to mind.

One, a warning from the wise Solomon. Proverbs 6:10-11

10 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, 11 and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.

Proverbs 6:10-11

Not to say that resting is wrong or anything but in this case I fell asleep spiritually. I neglected the spiritual needs for physical wants. Thus, I am robbed of spiritual time and growth.

Two, from the famous Psalm 1:1.

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;

Psalm 1:1

The lives that my close Christian friends live are very superficial. It’s very heartbreaking because they are my close friends. Often, I hoped that they would have a strong desire for the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. Not to say that they’re entirely wicked because I too have lots to grow.

I am disappointed in myself of my lack of faith. I have been building up my own fortune here in this temporal world. I deceived my self by thinking that if I work hard I can retire early and devote my self to study the word of God. I had spend even less time with God and neglected my studies. I made it my way and not God’s way. Devotion starts now not when I have time.

Matthew 6:19-34 sums up what I currently need right now.

After all this, I am encouraged by one other friend. They have sacrificed themselves for the ministry and the needs of others. Tired and cast down but still pushing forward. Not for self glory or recognition but in love. That is the building up of the Kingdom of God. Blessed are these who’s hands that work for God.