I received this email from Colin, a site reader with an interesting question:
"Here is a brief summary of my position: I live in a middle class family, and although we are not at all extravagant in our spending, we have the normal items found in any such family. I attend a university college where I am training to become a teacher. Again, I would say that I live a reasonably non-excessive student life. I have, for the most part, always believed in God, and recently have tried to live a more Christian lifestyle. Due to this I have become interested in being more ethical with things I buy, e.g., fair trade food, or recycling.
Recently, however, I have been questioning my lifestyle and whether or not it is necessary. By this I mean that I am unsure if I should feel guilty that I have so much when there are people in the world who have so little. As I said, I feel that I do try and moderate things and I do try to never spend frivolously.
My question, therefore, is this: Is it right to enjoy the things I am lucky enough to have, be it objects, friends or even food? Or should I feel guilty and perhaps try to give most of these up?
I read in your insightful article - 'Common Misconceptions of New Christians'. In it are these 2 points that relate to this question:
- 'Misconception 9 - Christians should not enjoy any earthly pleasures.
I believe God created all of the good, wholesome, enjoyable, and fun things we have on this earth as a blessing for us to enjoy. The key is not holding on to these earthly things too tightly. We should grasp and enjoy our blessings with our palms held open and tilted up.'
- 'Misconception 2 - Becoming a Christian means giving up all my fun and following a life of rules.
A joyless existence of mere rule-following is not true Christianity and the abundant life God intends for you.'
In closing, my feelings at this very moment are that I should try and help others as much as I can whilst continuing my current lifestyle. I would greatly appreciate any reflections you have about these feelings.
Thank you again,
Colin"
I'll begin my response with this biblical background from James 1:17:
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." (NIV)
