A friend and I were chatting and talking about getting rid of things that stand between us and God (burning them, actually). I laughed, saying my computer would be first to go. He said he’d have to throw himself into the fire, which opens up a whole other conversation on loving wrath, but basically, we agree that the problems in our lives are not always the actual problem.
I’ve thought about this a lot lately, that my computer is usually the reason I neglect my time with God. My excuse is usually something to the effect of “there’s something I need to do on the computer” and it sucks. Unfortunately, getting rid of the computer would be for me the same as my husband tossing out his tools. It just so happens that the same “tool” which brings us income is the same “toy” that gets in the way of my relationship with God.
I’ve decided the problem isn’t with the computer, but me. I’m a human being, made in God’s image, which gives me an incredible super power allowing me to control my own behavior. It’s amazing, this thing called “will power”, that let’s me decide all by myself what to do with my time. I just need a little practice, exercise, and discipline and I’ll be a super hero in charge of my own life!
Dave Gregory left a comment on September 28, 2006 at 3:28 pm | #
I hear that!!! Every morning I have to consider either doing my quiet time with God or to check my email. It sounds so trivial, yet I go thru it every day. And forget those days that the kids wake up early.
Joe Lencioni left a comment on September 29, 2006 at 9:52 am | #
I believe that if you live your daily life to glorify God, you are “spending time with God.” This certainly can include using your computer. Approach your time on the computer (or even making a sandwich, walking the dogs, or whatever) as a sacrament through the mundane or a constant meditation. Sometimes all that it takes is a shift in perspective to see how God works through the smallest and most mundane things.
Additionally, I believe that God wants us to use our gifts to glorify Him and to get better at the things that we do. However, everybody has a different set of needs or approaches that work for them, so do what works for you and stick with it.
Natalie left a comment on September 29, 2006 at 12:22 pm | #
Thank you for your diplomatic response, Joe. Unfortunately, I don’t believe it’s enough to just think about God as I go about my day. Yes, it can be done and it’s awesome to be in constant connection with God, but it in no way replaces specific and deliberate time alone with my savior. Jesus very often went off to be alone with God and told His followers to do the same. I don’t believe he would condone a simple shift of perspective, but rather calls us to a whole and complete change of priorities. Likewise, it’s not about our different set of needs or what works for us. It’s about what God expects from us as children devoted to His way.
It’s not enough for me to go with the flow of my personal need for God because at some point I’d be too satisfied with where I’m at to get any closer to Him. I’d convince myself I’m doing well where I’m at and never move in closer. In that way I would miss out on so much. It’s those times when I force myself to put aside everything else and be alone with God that I am most rewarded.
Be careful, Joe, because Satan is so eager to make us complacent and satisfied with who we are because it ultimately keeps us on his side.
Joe Lencioni left a comment on September 29, 2006 at 2:08 pm | #
I wasn’t suggesting giving up specific time with God, because that is important. Rather, I was trying to say that simply because you are doing things on the computer doesn’t mean that you aren’t spending time with God. And, I’m not talking about simply thinking about God as you go about your business Rather, I’m suggesting that you make your actions God’s so that God’s grace may shine through your life like a beacon. This means doing””not thinking, feeling, or speaking. Simply doing.
Here’s the way that I see it
Paul suggests that we make our lives a constant prayer. To me, that doesn’t sound like being complacent with your relationship with God””it’s the exact opposite It’s a move from a self-centered life to a selfless life in the literal sense of the words. As we are instructed, let go of the false self and embrace the true self.
This “letting go” is a journey that can take time and one that many people possibly will not realize. However, all people, whether or not they like it or know it, are at some place on this journey. These people have different “next steps,” if you will, depending on where they are at on this journey. That next step for you sounds like taking a little time away from the computer and spending time with God.
Good luck on your journey.