When I was very young, I was the remote control for the television, there were three channels, all black and white, as much as I recall, and if there was nothing of value to my interest on, I would find something else to do.
“I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.” (Psalm 101:3)
The search for the knowledge of this world is not the search for the Almighty, it is not sitting there and searching for something interesting, something to captivate your attention as you swipe through literally countless images. It is a trap of our adversary, and there is no subtlety in it.
It is either a report of what happened, what is happening, or what someone believes will occur, and all of it is meant to draw you into an abyss of uncertainty, anxiety, fear, or complacency.
“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” (Romans 7:18)
Who is following these continuous “breaking news” reports, these so-called very important events that occur seemingly every moment now, the mind in you that serves Christ, or the flesh that still serves the law of sin? It is an addiction, this need to know, this desire to stay informed, to be able to remain in constant contact with the world, and like any addiction, weaning oneself from it cannot be done unless there is something to replace it.
Do you see yourself as seeking the face of God while you are on social media sites? Are you looking for His will in your life as you follow the latest news reports, seeking a way to glorify Him as you are staring many hours a day at that screen?
In these days of darkness, I believe many are using the excuse of searching for all those supposed “End Times” reports as a way to make themselves believe they are looking for the return of Christ, but I fear that many, if not most of them, could not offer any of the Scripture verses in context about these days. Ask them about what’s happening on the other side of the planet or in their own nation though, and they will seem as one who actually works for one of those broadcast stations.
The search for truth is more important than what the world is doing, and it is rare indeed to find truth on that screen my friends. Information yes, but only about the temporal.
It is sad to see those who profess His name, who have indeed seen the sign of these days continue, even with that knowledge, to spend so much of their time searching for the next sign, instead of for Him.
“And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” (Luke 21:28)
Not look back at that screen.
What will you say to Him when He questions you about your life here, when He asks you, just how many more signs did you need?
Something to keep our eyes occupied, something to keep our minds off what we are to be doing, anything but seeking His face, that is the plan of our adversary, and it is working quite well. It is an excellent way to keep those who serve the Living God preoccupied and less profitable.
Eternal things should matter to you, the souls of those you meet, the hearts of those who call the Lord Jesus Christ Master.
“Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.” (1st Thess. 5:11)
In the world to come, what will you speak of, the days you lived in?
Continuously seeking for that next new sign, staring at that screen to garner information of this world may not quench the Holy Spirit within you, but it can cause a great hindrance to the work you are to be doing. Replace that addiction, seek His face, read and contemplate His Word.
Look inside yourself and see is you are profitable, or in bondage.
