Technology is deeply woven into modern life, often in ways that go unnoticed—until something goes wrong. A sudden computer failure, for example, can bring work to a grinding halt. Programs vanish, essential files become inaccessible, and familiar shortcuts no longer function. The process of recovery can be frustrating, with each missing piece only becoming apparent when it’s needed.
Just when things seem to be back on track, another gap appears, leaving one scrambling to restore what was lost. It’s in moments like these that the full extent of our reliance on technology becomes painfully clear. This experience mirrors a deeper truth about spiritual life. When things are running smoothly, it’s easy to take our connection with God for granted. The daily rhythms of faith—prayer, Bible reading, worship—can become background processes, quietly sustaining everything without much thought. But when life throws a crisis, spiritual gaps can suddenly become apparent. Struggles, doubts, or unexpected hardships reveal where reliance on God has weakened, much like a system crash exposing missing links in a digital workspace. Jesus made this reality clear in John 15:5
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
Just as a computer system requires careful maintenance, updates, and backups to function properly, a strong spiritual life requires deliberate attention. It’s not enough to assume everything is in place; regular connection with God is essential. Neglecting that connection may not seem noticeable at first, but when difficulties arise, the gaps become painfully obvious.
This realization is both a challenge and an opportunity. A broken system forces a thorough assessment—checking what is missing, repairing what is broken, and ensuring everything is correctly restored. Likewise, moments of spiritual struggle invite reflection: Are there shortcuts—quick prayers instead of deep communion with God—that need replacing? Are there missing links—fellowship, scripture study, or worship—that have been neglected? Are there essential programs—core spiritual disciplines—that need to be reinstalled in daily life? Psalm 73:26 offers encouragement: "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." (NIV)
A system failure is frustrating, but it also brings awareness. In the same way, spiritual setbacks can serve as reminders to reconnect, rebuild, and strengthen faith. The goal is not just to restore what was lost but to build a foundation that is more resilient than before—both digitally and spiritually.
Scott
