We got a new camera. Not just any new camera. It’s a nice new camera. It took a long time for my daughter to save up almost all of the money needed to buy it. I chipped in some and we ordered if from Amazon.
When it arrived, we were wowed by all the buttons. It has so many functions. I know it’s capable of doing so much.
However, when using it, I found myself just picking it up, pointing at the object I wanted to take a picture of and then clicking the button. Done. This is the behavior I’m most familiar with from my past experience with cameras. I have a hard time deviating from what I’ve always done and known.
Getting to know the camera is my only way to get the most out of it. I’ve got to pull out the manual and read it. Then I need to follow the instructions on how to focus it and get the best lighting results. Only then will I be using the camera at its maximum capability.
The Christian walk is like that too. There’s so much more to it than just attending church and attending a women’s Bible Study class. Perhaps it’s time to deviate from what we’ve always known and done to get the most out of our Christian walk.
Get to know the Lord. Pull out His manual – the Bible – and read it. And when you’ve read it, apply it to your life. Only then will we be able to live the Christian life to its maximum capability.
For me, getting the most out of my Christian life, looks like this. (And I’m certainly no expert and I’m learning more and more each day.)
I set aside time most days to read my Bible. I’m reading through the Old Testament, a chapter or two a day, and am currently in Deuteronomy. Next, I pray using a prayer list that has my immediate family, some extended family, friends, church and other needs listed. I make sure to praise God for answered prayers as they happen. I pray all day long as if one continuous conversation with God. I try to confess quickly when I sin. I try to think above the noise and choose to do what He would want me to. I tell Him I want to want what He wants more than anything else in this world. I cry deeply when I’m hurting, and don’t hold back when I’m mad. I remember that He loves me and nothing I can ever do will change that. I’m vulnerable with Him like no other. I sing to Him at the top of my lungs when I’m in the car and a praise song comes on the radio. I dance for Him when I’m on my porch and I feel overcome with awe as the trees sway overhead.
A status quo Christian life will never allow us to truly live. Let’s get the most that we can out of our Christian lives.