Face Time

In today’s world, there are a lot of different things that try to take our time. Every day is filled with the day-to-day activities, plus other cultural norms such as TV, games, movies, social media, shopping, etc. With so many things trying to take our time from us, we have to remember the most important ways to use our time, not just the many ways we can use our time.

While on a run the other day, I listened to a great podcast by Pastor John Ortberg. His message was about controlling technology in our lives, and he made a comment (not a direct quote) that we need more face to face time with God in our lives and less Facebook time in our lives.

Can you relate to Pastor John’s statement? I sure can. I see the subtle trap that technology has in my life and in the lives of others. If we spend more time looking at Facebook than we do seeking the face of God, why are we surprised when we don’t seem as close to God or sense Him working in our lives?

I think we need to take a tip from Moses. Exodus 33:11 says, “Thus the Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend…” Moses had plenty of social connections, but the most important connection he had was with God. The time Moses spent in the presence of God changed the way he related to everyone else in his life.

There isn’t anything wrong with being on social media as long as it does not keep you from spending plenty of time with God.

One practice I have tried to live by for years is to make the first connection of my day with God rather than with the world. So before checking email - or checking Facebook or Twitter - check in with God. Seek God’s face through prayer and the Word before you seek the latest post in your news feed. You’ll be glad you did!