Latest Devotion
Yo-Yo Christianity
By: Keefe Wilson
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. James 1: 6-8
Last week I visited a Christian school, and I noticed they were selling yo-yos. Those yo-yos took me back to my own school days. At recess, we would show off the latest yo-yo tricks to each other—walking the dog, around the world, seeing whose yo-yo could spin the longest, and whose could snap back the fastest. But one thing was always true: our yo-yos never stayed still. They went up and down, up and down, controlled by each pull of the string.
Sadly, that is how many Christians pursue God. One day they are on fire—praying, reading God's Word, eager to serve. The very next week they are distant, distracted, and spiritually empty. Up on Sunday, down on Monday. Strong in worship, weak in trials. That is called "yo-yo" Christianity, and Scripture warns against it.
Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:8 (NLT)
God never called us to a faith that swings with feelings, circumstances, or emotions. He calls us to steadfastness. The inconsistency that accompanies yo-yo Christianity will keep us spiritually immature. A faith that is primarily driven by emotion rises when life is good and falls (or fails) under pressure. Real faith isn't built on feelings—it is built on commitment. God is not looking for occasional enthusiasm; He wants daily faith and daily faithfulness. A steady walk. Deep roots. A heart anchored in Christ.
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13
How we guard ourselves from yo-yo Christianity:
- Obey God, even when it seems hard.
- Guard your heart from life's distractions.
- Guard your mind from the enemy’s attacks.
- Pray, even when you don't feel like praying.
- Open God’s Word, even when life gets busy.
- Trust God when circumstances are uncertain.
A yo-yo is connected and guided by a string; believers are connected to God and guided by the Holy Spirit. So, Christ follower, ask yourself this question: Am I bouncing up and down spiritually, or am I steadily following Jesus? Don’t let your emotions, worldly things, or the devil pull you towards spiritual instability.
Stay faithful. Stay connected. Stay close to God. Don’t be up and down like a yo-yo—be anchored in Christ!