By doing this we are not acting like Christians. We are acting the way that any other godless person would act--not worrting about spirituality because it doesn't really matter.
Galatians 4
8 But then, indeed, when you did not know God, you served those which by nature are not gods.
9 But now after you have known God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you turn again to the weak and beggarly elements, to which you desire again to be in bondage?
You don't have to jump-up and go volunteer all day long to punish yourself. Take some time to read the Bible or worship. Perhaps you should meditate and listen for God's voice. You could even fast--not necissarily food (unless you want to fast from a meal or so). Fast from TV or music or whatever it is that is keeping you from God. Remember when fasting you are giving something to the Lord. Don't slouch around complaining (even to yourself!) about "giving something up". Instead, spend that time praying, meditating, worshiping, or even doing something that you've been meaning to do (like house work or reading your summer book, because God wants you to get all those things done just as much). Just spend more time with God. Listen to your holy spirit and you'll know what you're suppose to do.
