During a recent discussion on our Declutter Now! Facebook page, it was overwhelmingly agreed that most people would rather stay home and watch a movie than go out and see a flick on the big screen. Sure, cost and comfort were cited, but many people mentioned they loved having the ability to hit the pause button. Being able to grab a drink, answer the phone, make a snack and even go to the restroom was really (REALLY) important. It got me thinking. What’s our obsession with the pause button?
I think it boils down to control and convenience. Neither of these in moderation represent a particularly negative behavior or desire, but to excess, both can have devastating consequences.
A controlling demeanor can undermine God’s work in your life. When we control, we depend on our own ability and resources, and disregard God’s role in the process. Yes, we’re called to be good stewards of the gifts and talents God has blessed us with and use them to the best of our ability, but we’re also told to keep God’s will and desire at the forefront of all the decisions we make. The first should not negate the second.
We also live in a society where ‘convenience is king’. We want everything quickly; we need it yesterday. The drive-thru should not take more than a few minutes (it’s “fast” food, right?), our internet better perform at a lightning pace and we expect instant access to people at all times. We often sacrifice quality and care in order to accommodate our need for speed.
Honestly, I don’t have anything against the pause button and harbor no ill feelings towards the operator of the remote (which I can tell you is not me!), but I do think this discussion provides the perfect opportunity to remind ourselves that control and convenience to excess can hinder our walk with Christ. We need to be open to hear God’s voice, even if he’s whispering that he wants us to slow down today or divert our path. Perhaps he’s chosen someone else to lead this time around and it’s our turn to take a step back. We must be prepared to deflect to God’s will, regardless of the request…even if that means giving up control and convenience, AKA, the ability to use the pause button.
As with watching an exhilarating movie, sometimes…just sometimes…it completely ruins the mood to pause in the middle of an exciting scene. Kind of a bubble burster – wouldn’t you agree? Don’t burst the God bubble in your life. “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your path.” Proverbs 3:6.
Once in a while, hide the remote, give up your control, forego on some conveniences, open yourself up to whatever God is calling you to, relax and smile. He’s got your back and you already know the end of the movie – There’s nothing to fear!
