Life Hack

When I was growing up to “hack” something was to chop, probably a piece of meat or fish, and do a very poor job of it.  In recent years when someone gains unauthorized access to computers or devices we said we’ve been “hacked.”

But now on social media I’m often seeing “life hack” videos – unconventional shortcuts that seem to be effective in solving a problem or achieving a particular result.  Things like using plastic bottles for a variety of uses or homemade cleaners from regular pantry items, and a thousand ways to peel hard boiled eggs or chop onions without tears.

So, when I read this question in a devotional I consult, it set me thinking. The question was, “Am I treating the gospel as a life hack or am I genuinely pursuing the kingdom of God? What was the author trying to communicate?

For so many, God is a problem solver, to be consulted when a situation seems to be beyond our control with the hope of a quick solution, but then left on the sidelines at other times in our lives. 

When I went to church on Easter Sunday morning the place was jammed with people standing in the aisles but for so many, Christmas and Easter, baptisms, weddings, or funerals are about the only times they make their way through the door of a church. A bit of God when it is convenient.

Is this how Jesus taught us to live, what being a follower of His was meant to look like?  Jesus said this about how He lived each moment of each day.

The Son can do nothing alone. He does only what he sees his Father doing. The Son does the same things that the Father does.  The Father loves the Son and shows him everything he does. John 5:19-20

And this is how Jesus told us to organize our thinking and activities each day.

Always think about the things that are important in the kingdom of heaven. Always do what God shows you is right. Then he will also give you the things that you need each day. Matthew 6:33

Lord, too often I think we are guilty of using you like a life hack, to solve our problems, show us something we need to know, or calm us down but once things are resolved, off we go on our own and don’t make much space for you.  Forgive us. 

Please work in us today so we, like Jesus, long for what You know is right and good in this day and give ourselves to watching and listening so we can follow how You are leading. 

You have a plan for our lives today, and it’s a great one, a better one than if we just wander in our distractions.  Help us to take time to listen to You as we set out on our day and to consult You over and over through the day, seeking only to know You and to please You by doing Your will in this day.  Amen

Well, we miss so much when we follow our own plans rather than seeking to know God’s heart for the moment and for the day.  I’m going to try to be more attentive to God’s leading today and intentionally consult Him more as I walk in today.  How about you?