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With technology comes great gains in the way we are able to live our lives. However, nothing can be more frustrating than when that same technology meant to make our lives easier fails. One of the most frequent ways this can happen is to lose a connection. Cell phones, internet access, and satellite dishes are all susceptible to this common problem. How many of us have been right in the middle of a long conversation only to lose connection and have to start all over? How many of us have been watching the big game or our favorite movie only to lose signal from our satellite miss out because of the lost connection? Technology may bring great advances in the way we live our lives, but it also seems to bring more annoyances with it.
Like a television or cell phone, Christians must maintain their connection. Our connection is not with some satellite hovering in the sky. Rather, our connection is the adoption we have from our Father in Heaven. This is the most precious connection a person can make on this earth. However, as we travel through this world, things often come up that interrupt our connection with God. We may get distracted by other interests, tempted by sins, or discouraged by various trials and tribulations. Whatever the reason, losing one’s connection as a child of God is without a doubt the most pitiful state we can find ourselves in.
So how do we make sure our connection is strong? While not a complete list, I hope that the following suggestions will help us in our efforts. First, use the gift of prayer coupled with Bible study. Prayer is the opening line of communication with God, and Bible study is the opportunity for God to respond to our requests. A Christian who forgets these two tasks will find themselves easily plucked from the safety of God Second, use the gifts of our assemblies. Our times of worship are meant to build us closer together as the family of God. However, by singing together, learning from God’s Word together, and remembering Christ’s death together, we also grow closer to God. This helps keep our connection clear in our daily lives. Finally, show acts of kindness to others. John tells us that God is love. When we display love for others we look more like God than at any other time in our lives. By simply being like Him, we maintain our connection to Him.
Walter Rayburn
Owl Hollow Church of Christ
Winchester, TN