Bible Passage: “Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.” (Proverbs 4:25-27 NLT)
Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:8-9; Colossians 3:1-4; Hebrews 12:1-2
In response to the dangers of our digital age, some have started “friction-maxxing”—deliberately doing things that require difficulty, time, and patience, like using paper maps instead of GPS or taking notes by hand instead of using a phone to record.
It’s creating “friction” by going “old school” to slow down and build “new” skills.
In an accelerating digital age, there are “old school” truths and practices worth revisiting. In this world of nonstop information and stimulation, we continually need to refocus on our center: Jesus.
Solomon taught the importance of focused attention and wise, disciplined living that avoids distractions. The author of Hebrews, using similar language, encouraged believers to fix their gaze on Jesus, remove distractions, and find the strength to endure.
Two writers, separated by 900 years, offered the same encouragement to keep our gaze fixed on what is true and good so that we can live wisely and faithfully.
We’ve seen this week that there can be a sinister progression in the digital world, from stealing our attention to full-blown addiction. But surrendering to the lordship of Jesus is the antidote to every digital distraction:
- For our information age, Jesus offers real wisdom.
- For the influence of technology, Jesus offers transformation.
- For individualism and self-centeredness, Jesus offers a selfless example.
- For isolation and loneliness, Jesus offers genuine brotherhood and connection.
- For division and polarization, Jesus offers unity and loving community.
- For those enslaved by addiction, Jesus offers freedom and a Spirit-filled life of self-control.
His way is the antidote. As we embrace the future, reclaiming a spirituality aligned with the way of Jesus will be essential.
Ancient practices of prayer, Scripture reading/reflection, silence and solitude, and acts of kindness and generosity can help us resist distractions and lead us into the presence of Jesus.
Technology will continue to transform how we do things in the world, but surrendered men who live the way of Jesus can transform the world:
“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9 NLT)
Prayer: Lord, thank You that in the midst of all the distractions, temptations, and noise of our world, You are still the Prince of Peace. Help me surrender to Your lordship each day so I may know Your presence and carry it into a searching world. Amen.
Reflection: Have you fully surrendered your life to the lordship of Christ? What parts are you still struggling to release to Him, or where do you need to experience His peace and presence?
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