Why Would You Need This? (1 Corinthians 10:31)

It was 1983 and I was a junior in college. I was invited to a friend’s dorm who was excited to show me his new toy. It was one of the first personal computers. It was a behemoth when compared to the sleek laptops and desktops of today. Computing power? There is more computing power in your digital watch than the original desktops. But it was a true computer and it was sitting in his room!

I examined this monstrosity and marveled at how much technology had progressed! And yet, one gnawing question was pressing upon my mind, “Why would you need this?”

At that time, I spent many an hour in the computer lab. Our college was fortunate to have many computer terminals. I could write my papers, perform complex scientific computations, even access national libraries for references. This personal desktop computer barely had any programs and relied upon a series of floppy disks to load even simple programs like word processing. I was amused as my friend attempted to demonstrate the “power” of this primitive computer. The question persisted in my mind. Why would you need this?

Obviously my vision was incredibly short-sighted!

As we grow in the Christian life, we may encounter situations where we are unsure of the merit or applicability of a certain technology for our daily walk. The internet and smart phones have changed some church services, allowing participants to text fellow worshippers and even the pastor. While this may seem odd, it was not that long ago that pastors preaching their sermons with the aid of presentation type programs such as Powerpoint, were regarded with suspicion.

The pace of technology change is accelerating. Technology is to serve man and ultimately we must hold any use of technology to light of the Word of God. Does our use of technology glorify God or man?

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 10:31

Technology serves man and we serve God. We may not immediately know why we may need a new technology but all we need to know is whether it honors and glorifies God.

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.