Technology is trying to make the world better, but it often makes me feel like a dinosaur.
One of the latest marvels out there is a soft, flexible, wristband that you wear 24 hours a day. It is combined with an app that tracks how you sleep, move, and eat. The “UP” by Jawbone then helps you use that information to “be your best.” The concept is extremely impressive, especially to me, a guy who frequently falters in his exercise routine and does not get enough sleep.
Gadgets are often used as mirrors to show people the good, the bad, and the ugly things we do each day. The “UP” is ultimately trying to improve the physical health of people by showing them a better way and giving daily reminders on what to change. After learning about this new item, I immediately began to wonder, what technology or gadget is out there to improve spiritual health? What electrical device could show people a better way and give daily reminders on how to improve their spiritual lives? What technology, gadget, or electronic doodad would strengthen my walk with Christ?
I am a dinosaur, so responses were slow. I instead turned to some familiar items that currently help people strengthen their faith. I distinctly remembered a Marine I met at Camp Lemonnier. He downloaded the entire Bible to a handheld device and used that for our Wednesday night study of Matthew’s gospel. During this year’s annual training exercise, Soldiers were constantly asking for a “Military BibleStick.” It is a digital audio player that is pre-loaded with a dramatized recording of the entire New Testament. I handed out more sticks than Bibles this summer. There was another Soldier who wanted to read the entire Bible in a year, so I showed him a website where he could tailor a reading plan to his schedule.
As people begin to use their new gadgets and electronic Christmas gifts in the new year, utilize technology so that you can improve your spiritual health. Download your favorite translation of the Bible, add a prayer appointment to your electronic calendar, use Pandora and listen to your favorite Christian artist, find a website and sign up for a daily or weekly devotion. Don’t worry. Dinosaurs can jump into the mix as well. It does not matter if you keep a journal on a note pad or an iPad, the focus should be on building your spiritual muscles in 2013. Use technology in a way that will strengthen your faith and devotion in Christ.
God Squad 