What’s up, everybody!?
I’m Nathanael from WE THE LEAST, and this is the story behind the song “American Dream” on our new album Sundae Best.
“American Dream” was inspired by a sermon that I heard about how Christianity is not equivalent with the American Dream of comfort and material wealth.
Often, we get caught up in the to-do list of the American Dream. We think about getting a new car, a new house, etc. Or we spend our time trying to be successful and to do things that glorify God, instead of learning to be someone who glorifies God. The sermon was a great reminder that we are primarily human beings, rather than “human doings.”
At end of the day, the only thing that really matters is our relationship with God and our relationships with other people. Everything that we achieve, create, or purchase will all pass away, but relationships last forever.
To add to that, following Jesus isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes, God calls us to become poor, to suffer, or even to die for his glory. Whatever our lot, we should hold to the truth that “To live is Christ, and to die is gain.” – Philippians 1:21. Jesus is the greatest treasure that we can experience in this life and the next. Ideally, our outlook and attitude in life and death should be the same no matter what we face: If I get more of Jesus through this, BRING IT ON!
Jesus, help us to trust you when you call us into difficult places, and help us to value our relationship with you and with others more than the American Dream of comfort and material wealth. AMEN.
God bless you!
– Nathanael
For more information about We The Least, or to order your own copy of their album Sundae Best, check out their website at wetheleast.com
I understand fame and fortune are stupid.
But I want to know if it’s a sin to pay for bills and groceries. Doesn’t the bible promote hard work instead of laziness?
I wanted to become a video game developer for the glory of God, and NOT for fame and fortune.
I personally believe the “American dream” can used to glorify God. But sadly, a few stereotypical greedy people caused some Christians to falsely believe that it’s inherently sinful.
How can I convince fellow believers that not all people are greedy? Some companies actually help the poor(McDonald’s, Salvation Army, Dollar General, etc.).
Is it inherently sinful to glorify God with my dream of indie video game development?
I promise I’m not greedy, I just want to glorify God in a unique way.
I want to know if my hard work has value in God’s eyes.
Because sometimes I feel God hates me.