The online Oxford Dictionary defines FOMO as “anxiety that an exciting or interesting event may currently be happening elsewhere, often aroused by posts seen on a social media website.” The Fear Of Missing Out is not a new phenomenon but it has risen to higher levels with the coming of our social media age. Along with FOMO come other destructive tendencies, like the inability to commit, fractured concentration and shallow relationships.

But there is a type of FOMO that we do not talk about much which is good. We could call it Spiritual FOMO. Instead of being fearful about missing out on a better party, event or social media post as followers of Christ we should learn to be sober in our evaluation of our time so we are not missing out on time with God. It is core to the Gospel message that God desires to be “with us” and even “in us” through the Holy Spirit. He has given us many amazing promises of reward and blessing if we will boldly approach His presence and learn to abide in Jesus. Here is one,

“If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” (ESV, John 15:7)

What a staggering promise. So, why are not more so called believers experiencing Spiritual FOMO today? Why are our churches not filled with more Christians who are fearful about missing out on intimate fellowship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit? What is wrong with our faith communities where FOMO rather than Spirit FOMO rule the people’s hearts? Could this explain a lack of corporate and personal spiritual fruit? Again Jesus proclaims:

“I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (ESV, John 15:5)

Statistically speaking many if not most so-called believers today spend more time abiding in media than they do abiding in Jesus. The only result that can come from this is a fruitless unfulfilled life.

There would be a glorious revolution if believers developed Spiritual FOMO where they “must” get up early to start their day with the Lord and His Word – because they don’t want to miss anything the Lord has for them and they want to be ready to have the most fruitful day possible.