Christian Living

Mediocrity

by Pastor Curtis J. Johnson, Jr. M.Div.
01/23/13
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Mediocrity
A Life Devoid of Excellence

A Christian who chooses to maintain a mediocre existence ~ that is, to never advance beyond receiving the gift of salvation into a mature believer ~ is equivalent to a soldier who while in the heat of battle puts down his weapon thus admitting defeat.

Mediocre is defined as only of moderate quality; not very good. Mediocrity is a way of thinking which deprives one of the ability to press beyond the boundaries of normality, to break the mold to change the status-quo.

" It's a wretched taste to be gratified with mediocrity when the excellent lies before us." ~ Isaac D' Israeli, 1834

Exploring this topic in light of Christian living and service, it serves one well to know that this is as much a subject to be grappled with by those not professing Christ as it is by those who do. It's no longer good enough to take our marching orders from the crowd, who say, "What difference can one person make?" "This is the best I can do?" "What is the use?" "This is as good as it gets" and like sentiments. It is high time to begin to see that excellence, authenticity and above all integrity are non-negotiable on this walk of faith.

"As a man thinks in his heart so is he" (Proverb 27:3a). The way that you see the person looking through the mirror back at you; the words that you speak to yourself from the deepest place of your soul will determine the person you are and will forever be. "For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." (Matthew 12:34b)

While studying Biblical counseling I came across the term "Self Talk" used by counselors and psychologist to help reshape a person's perception of themselves. This concept however is only effective in as much as there is a source of positive stimuli to fuel such talk. The scriptures are the most reliable source of positive mental reinforcement available. Once we begin to see ourselves through the lenses of scripture an amazing transformation starts taking shape.

Mediocrity breeds complacency, contempt, and finally death. Complacency - a feeling of smug uncritical satisfaction with one’s self or achievements. Contempt is then the attitude or feeling that something is beneath any consideration or is worthless, i.e. "What's the point, things will never change!" and finally death. As we all know Death is the one thing promised to each of us without discrimination. "And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment." (Hebrews 9:27)

Those who embrace mediocrity are dry bones in serious need of revival and are oblivious to their own condition. They believe that their lack of motivation and action is justified, claiming to wait on God for direction and all the while ignoring the clear instruction of scripture.

The idea here is to progress through life with an attitude of true faith which proves itself by appropriate action. (see James 2:17,18) This leads to excellence of character, endeavors, and life.

"I appeal to you therefore brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:1,2)