Point and Click

I love technology. I’ve had various PDAs over the past four years that have been my virtual memory. I have an iMac that I adore. Camera, cell phone, digital recorder, iPod -- you name it and my husband has graciously given them to me. In fact, he tells everyone that teckie stuff is my bling bling. I don’t want diamonds or jewelry ... just the next version of the iPhone.

And I’ve used every item ... worn out a couple of computers, use a digital camera that no longer focuses through the lens viewer, and love my iPod shuffle, dents and all. But I have a confession to make. I think I should be able to point and click and get the results I’m seeking, instantaneously. So while I love technology, I’m severely handicapped in that I don’t take the time to read the instructions.

I was frustrated with my iMAC and it’s photo program. I could do lots of things with the click of my mouse but I couldn’t seem to figure out how to resize photos to send in email or upload to my blogs. And, it was definitely hampering creating a web site. I purchased "iMAC for Dummies" and, when that didn’t work, I purchased Adobe Photoshop Elements so that I could quickly resize photos. NOT! Oh, I’m sure it’s easy and one day I’ll figure it out. But one day is too far away for me.

Recently I decided to go to the Apple web site and read the promos on the newest programs that for the iMAC. I desperately clicked my way to the 2009 photo program. And in my rush, I accidentally clicked on the 2008 promo. There I discovered that I could downsize photos through my email function on the iMAC. I tried it and was stunned that it worked. I even figured out how to resize photos without having to attach them to an email.

It got me to thinking. Too often we want to grow spiritually ... and we want to do it NOW. We go to church, join Bible studies, and we love to purchase the latest best-selling books, convinced these things will be the MiracleGro for Christians. Maybe that works for some, but I can attest that it didn’t work for me. Don’t get me wrong, these things are important.

What DID work was immersing myself in God’s Word, surrounding myself with Christian music, and seeking God’s presence through prayer. Of course, I tried rushing through these things as well but it didn’t work either.

Now, I find joy in reading the Bible. My husband asked me if I knew what BIBLE meant. I knew this was no simple question. Then he grinned and said, “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” I like that. Some people call it our Operating Manual. It’s why God designed it as he did.

So, before you rush out for the latest Christian best-seller or the newest translation of the Bible, just pick it up and start reading. Christian music can be comforting, uplifting, and a source of wonderful praise. Prayer is how we communicate with God.

Seems easy enough. But I bet there are a few out there, like me, who want to “point and click” our way to spiritual maturity. The thing is, it doesn’t work.


Oh, the joys of those who do not
follow the advice of the wicked,
or stand around with sinners,
or join in with mockers.
But they delight in the law of the Lord,
meditating on it day and night.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
and they prosper in all they do.
Psalm 1:1-3, NLT

5 comments:

    On 9:57 AM Alan said...

    The "louder" and "busier" my world gets, I can more understand the appeal of the hermit life of simplicity and quiet.

     

    Thanks so much for the comments. I know it's been a long time since I posted regularly but, once again, God is calling me back.

     

    Oh yeah ... as far as simplicity and quiet, you might want to check out the Heart's in Ireland blog.

     
    On 5:17 AM jen@ricochet said...

    I love honest simplicity of your writing! This post was meant for me to read! Thank you!

     

    Sometimes I struggle with the amount of time that passes between my postings and your comment is certainly an encouragement to me. Thanks, Jen.

     
 
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