So many devices, so little time
Ringtones and beeps and pings—oh my! Too many electronic signals scramble the nerves.
We weary of relentless emails and tweets, texts and updates.
We scratch our heads over new programs and apps for our varied devices.
We research a new appliance, bring it home, then battle “feature-creep” when we all we really want to do is:
- record that show
- wash our clothes
- make a call
Lord of Innovations, thank you for giving us brains and ingenuity.
Thank you for technology’s upside. (Remind us there is an upside.)
Thank you for mentors and podcasts and online tutorials. For classes and colleagues.
We believe in learning.
We know that steep learning curves invite us into Your grace, which heartens and strengthens us.
We believe in applying ourselves. We even believe in mastery—at least as a concept.
But today, we wish life were simpler
Jesus, was it ever dizzying to stay abreast of all those midrash additions local rabbis made to Torah?
When you withdrew to the hills, was it ever due to compassion fatigue?
On a tired day, would you have enjoyed using a GPS while traveling, town to town?
We need to recharge, and not just our devices! So we come to you now, the ultimate power source. You give us free will, and when we ask for help, you intervene. You never leave us to our own devices.
Help us live at the pace we can still hear your voice above distractions and daily interactions.
Help us prioritize today’s tasks, and, if need be, patiently absorb and practice new skills, then create a sane plan for further study.
Above all, help us remember we have the mind of Christ. And grace: sustainable, ever-renewable grace.
Thank you for all the creative ways we can reach you, right now. And that always, always, you are reaching for us.
NOTE: Friends, I will be scaling back on posts over the summer. Look for one or two per month in your Inbox.
Oh, and if you have a moment? Let me know if you’d enjoy an occasional post like this one. Thanks!
I loved this post. Yes, Laurie, share other posts similar to this one. Devices sometimes become vices. Instead, may they serve as marvels of innovation that enhance our lives not dominate them.
Niki, thanks for your encouragement! Having you stop by makes my day.
The wit of your penetrating comment (devices becoming vices) strikes home and increases my motivation to use them wisely. Here’s to enjoying the help our devices offer without our lives being controlled by them.
Yes, yes, please keep them coming as you can, Laurie. Bless you for your courage to unplug from all these devices and enjoy the summer with the Lord and your family. Will look forward to your return. Blessings.
Linda Jo, thank you, my friend, for this affirmation as well as your anticipation. So kind. The slower pace this past month has done me good. Blessings on you!!
I love your words as they come through my inbox; as you send them, will be “enough.” There is always a balance to strike in connecting with readers and friends, and resting and listening and recharging as needed.
Michelle, your gracious response means a lot to me, thank you. And yes, balance is what I am seeking. I feel blessed to have your blessing in this.
Ack! When devices become vices of well-being. I’m with you for slowing the pace and learning as can and as necessary without going over the edge. Enjoy your summer dose of extra leisure, or ‘what’s a summer for?’ On a warm day when thoughts flow like ink in your pen, write us another lovely post. Thank you, Laurie ♥
ooh, clever wordplay with “vices.” That brings the point home in one sentence! Thanks for your encouragement and your blessing on my plan. Coming from a fellow blogger, that’s so affirming. May you, too, have true summer! 🙂
One or two per month sounds perfect. This prayer/post is singing my song. Thank you Laurie. More please like this.
Thanks for the feedback. It will be my pleasure. 🙂
Laurie, reading your words this morning…they are the “sustainable, ever-renewable grace” my soul craves. What a wonderful gift from Jesus, through you. Thank you.
Hi Roberta. Thanks for reading the post. May grace envelop you today in ways you can touch and see and hear, then share freely, all day . . . and every day. Crave is the word, for me as well. 🙂
Yes! We are so on the same wavelength, Laurie. Recharge. Rest. Rejuvenate.
Kathleen, love the solidarity. 🙂
Laurie-this post really resonates right now…I’m trying to figure out how much is enough while still using technology. I will ask the great innovator of our souls! Thx!
Kel, you nailed it, in one word: “enough.” It’s way too easy to court burn-out by trying to follow all the expert advice out there as well as stay current. May purpose crystallize for you, may your efforts be grace-fueled, and may discernment be yours in full measure! Cheering you on . . .
Yes! Love it thank you Laurie. The invitation to being.
Oh, thank you for using that phrase: the invitation to being. I cannot hear it often enough. Blessings on you as you’re finding your way forward. Always love hearing from you, whether it’s your work, or your comments. 🙂 What a gift you are to many!!
Always enjoy your special insight. .. on another note ,,Enjoy your summer , relax ,recharge ,renew.
Larry, your support is so meaningful. Thanks too for these four wonderful words (in the kindest imperative voice!). Wishing the same for you, my gifted friend.
A moment of refreshing, reading your post today. Nice to read I am ” not left to (my) own devices”, and I am glad to remember there is God’s strength for me when I am challenged – it feels that happens regularly.
Oh, I am grateful the words refreshed you! So many challenges. So much upheaval, everywhere. Sending up prayers for strength as I type, knowing that God will see us both through this day, this week. Sending love your way, dear friend.
A delightful reminder, Laurie, about seeking God for setting the day’s pace and priorities, seeking his grace and relationship. Beautiful! P.S. Recently I wrote a review on Amazon for your book, Where the Sky Opens. I’ve never done that before, and somehow managed to leave off my name as the contributor. That was not intentional! (I just wanted you to know that was me!)
Nancy, you are the wind beneath my wings today. Thank you for reading and leaving a comment. And thank you for the lovely book review! My heart is brimming.
You’re welcome, my friend!