What are you most passionate about? Merriam-Webster defines passion as “intense, driving, or overmastering feeling or conviction.” For Christians, our greatest passion, our “overmastering feeling or conviction” should be centered in knowing and loving the God we call Father. Yet the world is filled with tantalizing allurements that compete with our passion for the Lord.

It’s convicting to realize that it is impossible to be passionate about God and the things of this world at the same time. “If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” (1 John 2:15) While most people are passionate about things that are of little or no consequence in light of eternity, that should never be true of the believer. So consider this a passion check. How can we tell where our true passion lies? Ask yourself three questions:

1. What do I most worry about?

What is it that rouses your concern? What’s your greatest fear? Do you often fret about your appearance, financial security, acceptance by peers, or job performance? Is there something that has you worried right now? Is there something causing you to lose sleep? Whatever comes to mind as you ponder these questions is a good indication of where your passion lies.

2. How do I spend my money?

Our Lord Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart [passion] will be also.” (Matthew 6:21) The late Larry Burkett echoed these words when he said, "Show me your checkbook, and I'll tell you what you care about most." Those who are passionate about their relationship with God will always practice good stewardship.

Last year MoneyWise Media, which is now FaithFi, reported that Christians average between 2 and 3 percent in their annual giving. The report also stated that about 40 percent of professing Christians give nothing measurable to their local church. This doesn’t just reflect a lack of passion for Christ and his church, it betrays a love for the world.

3. What gets me really angry?

What is it that causes you to lose your temper? You will never get upset about things that don’t matter to you. Does the loss of control, possessions, or health make you angry? Even more important is whether you stay angry. Anger has been shown to hinder effectiveness in the work place. It also affects our relationships with God and others. Your anger reveals what you’ve yet to surrender to Christ.

So, your worries, wealth, and wrath are key indicators of where your passion lies. Those who impact others for the Lord are passionate about him. Their joy in Christ and their love for him overflows to bless, inspire, and encourage others. Lukewarm, passionless Christianity helps no one. Where’s your passion? In my next post I’ll share how you can fuel your passion for God.