Overload?

Since creation, there has never been such a bombardment to our human brain of images, information, and music. From television to computers; from radio to I-pods. Our eyes and ears are being filled every day like they never have before. I am also a product of our culture and am not suggesting we live without electricity and running water, but I contend that there should be a time each waking day when we put on the brakes. There should be a time we stop the incessant bombardment and just be quiet.

I understand that the simplicity of a life without our modern conveniences is gone, but perhaps we need to listen to the advice of the One who wired us and knows our human limits: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Stillness is rare, quietness actually makes people nervous. We are so addicted to images, information, and music that we feel we must have a constant diet of its endless supply. There are many who believe it is a waste of time not to worship before the altar of this ever present trinity. Perhaps we need to live the truth of I Thessalonians 4:11 and, “study to be quiet”.

Another thought, male testosterone has never faced such a barrage of pornographic images. Their enticements are beckoning us to partake of its forbidden fruit (Proverbs 9:17). In spite of arguments to the contrary, a rapidly growing contingent of our male culture has lost control. Many are Christians.

The overload of our cerebral circuitry is often reflected in our inability to draw fresh waters out of the well of our own minds (Proverbs 20:5). Our relationship with God is once again rejected by our neglect and distraction; evil has a beachhead of opportunity (Genesis 2:9). Our focus is detoured by our addiction to sounds and images. Our heroes are those who entertain us. Our quiet times are nil.

Turn off the TV, shut down the computer, remove the earphones, put the cell phone on “quiet”, and take a brief time of solitude before God. You will think deeper, live happier, and worry less.