Is Your Operating System Up to Date?

For those of us who use a mobile phone or a modern laptop, we will be familiar with a message that pops on our screens, from time to time that says ‘your operating system is out of date’ and ‘do you want to update now or later?’ The choice to update is mine, however experience tells me that it is generally better to heed the advice and follow the instructions to update my device to the latest operating system. Once updated our devices tend to be less sleepy, work more efficiently, as bugs are removed and additional features are added.

Just as it takes time to update our mobile devices, we need to take some time in which we make space for God to speak to us. Ask yourself, when was the last time you asked the Holy Spirit to reveal, or give you clues about, your inner beliefs that are not easily recognised, because they are formed deep inside your heart?

Are there ways in which your focus has strayed away from your relationship with Christ? Are you focusing more on your own needs and wants? Have you become sleepy or uninterested in your relationship with God and other believers? As Romans 13:11 says, `now is the moment for you to wake from sleep`. Too often we get stuck in old ways, routines, and habits, which can act as spiritual slumber.

It can take a lot of effort to make changes, and too often we get discouraged, as we slip back into the old ways of thinking and acting. Romans 13:11-12 goes on with an encouragement to lay aside the work of darkness and put on the armour of light.

I believe Ephesians 6:10-18 about putting on the whole armour of God is not just telling us to be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His power, but to disempower the lies that the enemy has led us to agree with.

Be encouraged that you are never alone! God tells us in Isaiah 41:10, ‘You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off; do not fear, for I am with you, so not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.’

Take a moment today to consider before the Lord what changes you can make in your everyday life to recognise and challenge areas of your life where you are struggling. And don’t lose sight of the truth that it is God who is calling you. He knows your struggles and He is your constant help.