iPhones, iPads, laptops, mobile this, wifi that…now you’re free! No longer are you tethered and trapped! Gone is the need to be constantly plugged in! Go anywhere! Do anything!
But is this true? Are you really free? While these intelligent devices are not bound by the need for outlets, they do come with a cost. Batteries drain and must be recharged—to remain useful and be full of life, the device must be plugged in.
You also are an intelligent mobile device. And you need to be recharged. The ironic thing, however, is that the best way to recharge your batteries, is to simply unplug.
Turn off the TV. Put the phone in a drawer. Disconnect. Enjoy the silence.
This is very significant and valuable way for all of us to find mental and physical respite. But perhaps more importantly—something that rules over both the mental and the physical—is the importance in finding spiritual rest and revitalization.
Taking this idea a step beyond, many of you know of my Christian faith. As a follower of Jesus, the times when I find the most peace and feel the most restored are those in which I unplug from the cares and distractions of this world and instead couple into the kindness, wisdom, and encouragement that God provides. His word contains it in spades. No self-help book could ever be adequate enough to bring me to a full charge or reset those areas in my life which need attention. Really, when you sincerely look at it, there is no real power in self-help—it’s a myth perpetuated by pride. I cannot do everything on my own and I openly admit and embrace that. But I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. That’s the beauty I find in my faith—I don’t have to rely upon my own strength or look for other power sources in order to recharge my soul. I have this great gift offered to me…a free charging station with a perfectly clear and strong signal.
I take Jesus at face-value. He has integrity and is a man of his word. So, I find great comfort when I consider his promise when he said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)
And, in probably one of the most well-known Psalms, I find peace for my troubled soul. I love how it’s phrased through this particular translation:
“God, my shepherd! I don’t need a thing. You have bedded me down in lush meadows, you find me quiet pools to drink from. True to your word, you let me catch my breath and send me in the right direction. Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I’m not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd’s crook makes me feel secure. You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing. Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life. I’m back home in the house of God for the rest of my life.” (Psalm 23 — The Message)
God designed us as intelligent mobile devices. He designed us for interactive relationship with him and reliance upon his power to restore, refresh, and renew us. He wants to be our friend. He wants the best for us and has given us the choice to accept or deny his open hand. It’s so simple, it seems unbelievable. We simply need to refocus and redirect ourselves toward him who provides the most powerful, most meaningful, and longest-lasting recharge.
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