Is Instant Gratification Harmful to Society?
The Fast Track Delivers Speed—But the Faithful Path Builds Strength
There is increasing concern about how instant gratification is altering our society.
Sure, it's nice to have things at our fingertips and see results immediately—like getting help seconds after an emergency, receiving a quick diagnosis, or instantly celebrating a milestone.
But not everything should happen that quickly. Some things are meant to develop over time.
I definitely wouldn't want someone deciding, "I'm going to be a brain surgeon," and then starting to operate the next day.
It takes years of learning, practice, and precision before someone is ready to perform surgery. Mastery can’t be rushed.
As a society, we've grown accustomed to immediate results. While that's not always bad, it can be life-altering in the wrong situations. Sometimes, nothing replaces patience and process.
Photo by Bonnie S. Heisse
“Without the struggle, the wings don’t strengthen. Without the process, the butterfly can’t fly.”
Take the butterfly, for example. It's a beautiful reminder of the importance of hard work and patience. God designed it to struggle out of the cocoon. That fight strengthens its wings, allowing it to fly. Without that effort, its wings would be too weak, and its life would be at risk.
Life is simply like that.
We go through challenges to prepare us for what lies ahead. So, when we reach our destination, we are ready to face what we find there.
Have you ever wondered why a question mark isn't just a simple line?
As Beth Moore explained in a Bible study, the journey is more important than the destination. Along the way, we may face obstacles and detours, but those challenges shape us. They prepare us. They teach us to appreciate the destination when we finally arrive.
Because let's be honest: how much more do you value a goal or accomplishment when you know how hard you worked to get there?
Some things are not meant to be done on a moment's notice.
One thing that came to mind? A child. Can you imagine what would happen if a child suddenly developed overnight?
There's so much growth packed into those nine months—each detail woven together with remarkable care. That level of precision isn't achieved in seconds.
I can't even imagine what would be lost if it did.
Another example? Good barbecue ribs. You need time for flavors to soak in, for the smoke to do its job, and for the tenderness to develop. It takes time and patience. And yes, waiting is hard—but it's always worth it.
We acquire wisdom, experience, and growth through the process. Without the journey, we are not prepared for the destination.
Even setbacks and delays serve a purpose. Resistance today builds resilience for tomorrow.
I don't know about you, but I tend to value the things I've worked for—sweat, tears, the whole deal—much more than the things handed to me. Those earned moments stay with me longer.
And that’s especially true when it comes to something we all need…
What Can't Be Built in an Instant?
There's one essential thing you can't create instantly: relationships.
They require nurturing, patience, and daily effort. Genuine work.
It's not a one-and-done deal. You don't develop a strong relationship by showing up only once. You build it through consistent care.
Regardless of the type—be it God, family, work, or friends—relationships require time and attention. You can't leave them on the back burner and expect them to grow. Even the strongest bonds will fade without care.
You must be present. There are no shortcuts.
And if you're investing your energy in other relationships while neglecting the ones you already cherish… don't be surprised if those relationships start to fall apart.
It's a choice—one thing you make each day.
Where will you focus your effort?
The more time and energy you invest, the higher the likelihood that the relationship will thrive.
The same applies to your relationship with Jesus.
He wants you to come to Him every day. Even if it's to talk, He's always there, ready to meet you where you are.
Remember, every decision you make impacts your life and the relationships you have.
You can choose the quick route or the steady path. One provides speed. The other develops strength.
Two Paths, Two Outcomes
Fast Track vs. Faithful Path
Instant results → Steady growth
Surface-level connections → Deep, lasting relationships
Impulsive choices → Intentional decisions
Quick wins → Meaningful milestones
Avoids discomfort → Embraces the process
Temporary satisfaction → Lasting significance
Visual comparison created by the author to highlight the difference between instant gratification and faithful growth.
So, ask yourself…
What will you do today to strengthen your friendships, family, work life, and your walk with God?
Will you try to do it immediately?
Or will you choose to wait, grow, and walk the journey—one faithful step at a time?