In its usual style and flair, Apple, Inc. recently announced its newest addition to the iPhone family. Thousands gathered in San Francisco, and millions more tuned in online as the technology giant unveiled the highly-anticipated iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus!
As I began to think about the new iPhone and all of its bells and whistles – waterproof, headphone jack eliminated, a new dual lens camera – I took a look at my own phone. As I browsed Apple’s website, I mentally compared the new iPhone to my device. Pouring over the lineup of cool, new iPhone features, I got stuck:
- Is my phone water resistant?
- Does my camera have optical image stabilization?
- Is my battery performing at its optimal level?
The truth is, though I’ve had my phone for 2 years, I had no idea about all the cool things it could do.
Know why?
Keep Your Manual in a Safe Place – Your Heart
I had never read the manual.
In fact, when I checked, the manual was still in the box the phone came in – all neatly sealed and tucked away. It was never opened.
I mean, who has the time to sit down and read the manual?
Though I would not consider myself a tech expert, I’d like to think that I’m intelligent enough to figure out how to operate a cell phone. I mean, I do know the basics. Aside from the occasional phone call, I can check my email and send texts! That should count for something, right?
My husband, on the other hand, is who I call a true gadget-guy. He’s well versed in the latest smartphone technology and features. I like to rely on him to be my in-house “tech support”. Whenever I have a question about my phone, I just ask him. Don’t judge me! This system works for me.
But, then it occurred to me: How many extras are we missing out on in our relationship with God?
The Bible says in Psalm 68:19 that the Lord loads us with daily benefits.
Wait, what exactly are these benefits?
Do you know? Have you taken some time out to read the manual?
We don’t know how good we have it because we are trying to figure out everything on our own. Like me with my phone, we attempt to piece together answers in our own wisdom. We think that if we somehow stumble upon the right button, the answer will magically appear.
Can I Borrow Your Manual?
When that doesn’t work for us, we turn to people.
We ask our friends and closest advisors for their thoughts. We depend on our Pastors for a “Word from the Lord”. We overlook the authority we have in Christ. We miss the power He has given us over the enemy. We forfeit the promise of our inheritance simply because we haven’t read the book.
But Wait! There’s More… to Learn!
While I don’t fully understand all of the ins-and-outs of technology, I did recognize something else as I explored Apple’s website.
The new iPhone is pre-loaded with multiple apps.Once the power is turned on, everything that the phone needs to operate at maximum capacity is already inside. No other intervention is needed. Even the new AirPods are wireless! Apple built in the coding to ensure that all of the programs and applications work together for a seamless user experience.
In the same way, God has built into our being everything we need for success in this life. God has pre-packaged us with HIS purpose. Your Maker has already put multiple gifts, talents, and abilities inside of you! Nothing else is needed! What an amazing thought.
Once we turn on the power of the Holy Spirit inside of us, amazing things will happen.
But the question is: HOW do we become all that God has planned for us to be?
How exactly do we reach our fullest potential?
So, what’s the play call?
If your Bible is neatly tucked away, only to be used on Sunday mornings, may I gently encourage you to pick it up today? Take some time early in the morning to start your day with God. By quieting yourself in his presence, His Word will open your eyes to your potential and reveal His amazing plans for your life.
In this walk with Christ, what features & benefits have you discovered for your life?
