It Takes Time
Pastor Bob Alderman
FBC Rio Grande City
40 Days of Purpose Journal
Day Number 28
“Give me patience – and give it to me NOW!”
This seems to be our cry. I want it faster, better, cheaper and more convenient.
What have I lost withal this technology and progress?: Families that don’t know each other, marriages in shambles, stress and ulcers.
We would do well to notch back our tech, or at least our attitudes and customs, about 30 years or so. I really enjoy my computer, my e-mail, my cell phone and drive through fast food but I am not sure I am that much better off with it. Sure I can get things done quicker and more efficiently. Technology has been a great boom to our workplace and our country. America is on the “cutting edge” of technological breakthrough, but what is the real cost?
I grew up in the back roads of West Virginia in a fairly well off middle class family. We had television and radio, indoor plumbing and everything! I also remember the times when our electricity would be off for long periods of time. It was during these times that we came together closer as a family, or a community. We would gather under a candle and tell stories, share about our day or play simple games. We would laugh and talk, and yes a little goofy at times. We went to bed earlier, rested more and enjoyed life more.
Now, this same “get it now” attitude has entered our spiritual life as well. We don’t take the time necessary for real meaningful spiritual growth. “Just give me the necessities, I don’t have time for more.” Our lives are so busy that we do not make time for God. Sounds almost like a terrible contradiction; we have all this stuff to save time but still don’t have time for what is most important. Figure that out. Our grandparents did not PDA’s, cell phones or microwaves yet they were faithful to their God and His church.
We want a “quick fix” of God on Sunday morning – and the preacher better not preach long either, then we are off to get caught up on our homework, jogs, politics, golf game, yard work or whatever else has a higher priority than God and His children.
I often wonder about the way we “do church” in today’s world. We would be better off if we returned to a New Testament model of fellowship and commitment. I struggle with how to do this in today’s world.
God is not impressed with what I can do or how fast I can accomplish it. He is not concerned about my title or position in the world.
God is primarily concerned with developing a real and growing relationship with me.
I must make more time for God in my life! He must be primary. When I give Him my very best He is joyful. I want to make God smile.