A man once asked me, which is worse, ignorance or apathy? I told him, “I don’t know, and I don’t care.” (Get it?!) 😉

According to dictionary.com, apathy is defined as, the “absence or suppression of passion, emotion, or excitement.” Or, the “lack of interest in or concern for things that others find moving or exciting.”

Spiritual apathy is a risky place to be. I have found myself there from time to time. It’s good to be challenged, but prolonged unpredictability and discomfort can deplete us. And, with the state of the world, that is, crazy politics, controversial religious issues, and evil around every corner, it is easy to stop caring and focus instead on ourselves. But, we cannot let our love grow cold.

There are many things in our lives that can lead to spiritual apathy. Here are four.

First, apathy can be a byproduct of unconfessed sin or feelings of guilt. Sin and guilt can lead us to separate ourselves from God. We feel judged or condemned, and eventually may not care to draw near to God due to bitterness or resentment. He is holy, just and righteous, but also full of love, mercy and grace. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin and selfishness, but He never shames us. Read Romans 5:1-11 and then ask for the forgiveness (available only through Jesus) and be reconciled to God!

Second, we grow apathetic when we compare ourselves with others. We notice our lack and see how it stacks up with someone else’s skills or abundance. Remember, we are all uniquely made and individually called. Ephesians 2:10 says that we are God’s masterpiece, and He created us for good works long before we ever came to be (my summary). He doesn’t make junk!

Third, we may be dealing with defeat, discouragement, or disappointment in God. Maybe He didn’t do what you thought He should and you feel let down. Well, I understand, but in my experience, the issue is that my faulty expectations of God do not match the actual reality of His sovereignty. He is in full control, even when we don’t like it or don’t understand.

As my dad says, “We don’t have to have all the answers to walk by faith.” So, rest assured, if the Father calls you His child, He will take care of you. Bring all your hurts, questions, and doubts to Jesus. He can handle them and give you peace, if you let Him!

And fourth, apathy can be related to exhaustion or burnout from doing too much. This may include saying yes to too many things, or saying yes to the wrong things. If you are “Still Trying To Run the Entire Solar System,” it’s no wonder you are dealing with STRESS. Indeed, exhaustion comes in several forms: spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, social, creative, and sensory. When your tank is empty, at least one of them needs to be addressed! Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith has some good resources on rest and restoration here. Let the Holy Spirit guide you to the giving your best yes.

Finally, we must guard against apathy and let the Lord replenish us. I will talk more about that next week, but for now, take some time to reflect on how well you are loving others. If you “just don’t care,” consider that a sign that you need to take a break and come to Jesus!

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Heavenly Father, thanks that we don’t have to be in control of our lives. Instead, we can rest in knowing You are sovereign and will lead us where we need to be. Help us wait on Your timing and stay in step with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How do you recognize apathy in your life? What has made you turn the corner toward caring again?

Task: Take this free quiz to help you identify where you need to rest.