My wife knew what they were doing. I was too engrossed in conversation to notice. Even though they were with us, they were not participating in our discussion. They had their own secret conversation going on. Although this young couple was not sitting together, their eyes did not dare glance at each other, but downward at a little rectangular box-like thing measuring about 6 x 3 inches. They were spellbound by it as is most of the world. They bit the apple.
For some, texting can be a way of sharing unfiltered thoughts in one to three seconds with another person. Sometimes the brain is kept out of the equation. Shouldn’t there be a “THINK” button you have to press before hitting the “SEND” button? I get it. That would take too long. Since our communication today is so constant and hurried, misunderstandings and hurt feelings are unavoidable. Who hasn’t regretted sending certain texts? I have.
What if we talked to God as much as we texted our friends and family? What would that relationship then look like? What a complete metamorphosis! Isn’t it absurd we send numerous texts repeatedly to just one person (for example) in an effort to be understood? But the creator of the world totally “gets” us and He is always available 24/7. He is a whole lot more interesting than some of the people I text. God understands us way more intimately and deeply. He designed us. He placed us here. He loves us. He sees us. He leads us. He forgives us. He hears us. That is, if we talk to Him.
Oh to be spiritually inclined like the physical structure of an insect such as a Praying Mantis. Their arms are always folded like they are continually bent on praying. Did someone teach them about “praying without ceasing” from the Bible?
Life forces us to our knees when we come to the end of ourselves. John Eldredge writes from Moving Mountains, “But the call to grow up is very clear. And how does God provide for growing us up? What are his means? Situations that stretch us, strain us, push us beyond what we thought we could endure-those very same circumstances that cause us to pray”.
Then there is that whole “I don’t know what to say to God” rationalization or excuse. Paul addresses that from his book Romans, “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.” (8:26, NLT)
Eldredge sums it up best: “These are the prayers I find myself already praying as I’m waking up in the morning. “O God-help. Help me today, Lord.” Sometimes it’s just one word, repeated in my heart: Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. I think it will flow for you too, if you give it permission. Turn the editor off; let your heart and soul speak.” Text Him.
pictures courtesy of “Nelson & his Nikon”.