Coffee Shop Religion

Have you noticed the explosion of new coffee shop chains that have been opening in the last few years? My recent trip to Phoenix revealed several newly opened drive-thru coffee shops. I counted at least 15 different places such as: Ziggy’s, Scooters, Dutch Brothers, Black Rifle, Black Rock, Gravity, Infusion, Better Buzz, and Caribou. I am not an economist, but I think that the market will be saturated very soon. I suppose that the outbreak of these shops is a result of our fast-paced, drive-through society.

I have noticed another trend. People treat their relationship with the Lord like a drive-thru coffee shop. Just as they may order a shot of espresso, they only desire a shot of religion. A quick stop at church once a week, an online devotional, and a hurried prayer and we feel that we have taken care of our spiritual health. However, God deserves so much more. And frankly we need so much more. We need to spend quality time studying the Bible for ourselves and digging into its precious truths. We dare not neglect connecting with our Lord in meaningful heartfelt prayer pouring out to Him our praise, petitions, and gratitude. We also have a distinct duty to engage in meaningful service to our Lord. God longs for His children to know Him intimately, to walk with Him daily, and to serve Him faithfully.

God’s Word challenges us to go deeper with Him in Rom. 12:1,2: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God”.

Drive-thru coffee shops are probably here to stay. Those trendy and convenient establishments are part of a culture that is in a hurry. Yet, godliness doesn’t happen in a hurry. It takes time for Christlikeness to develop in our lives. Don’t be satisfied with a coffee shop religion, spend time with your Lord.