Do your “Default settings” need to be Reset?

A default, in computer science, refers to a setting or value automatically assigned to a software package, computer or device and assumes there will be no user intervention or changes. These settings may also be called “Presets”.  So, what’s the point.? They are intended to operate correctly “out of the Box”...No “Tinkering” needed!  When we become part of the family of God, He creates in us “Defaults or “Presets” as well. And like electronic devices the “Defaults” are best left alone.

We all know what happens if you “mess” with the settings beyond your ability. Everything gets out of whack! Things don’t work like they should. The views are distorted. The device may operate slower, behave erratically or even “crash”. The remedy is often found in returning the device to it’s default settings.

In real Life, when we mess with the “Defaults” God has given us the same effects begin to surface. Being men, “we” try to fix it by continuing to mess with the settings.The reason we continue messing with them is we think the “issue” we see is the problem. This however, is a deception of the enemy. The “issues” we see are only the symptoms of the  real problem. We are operating outside our “defaults”. And it will only get worse until we recognize and address the root or core issue and return to the “Defaults”. So, what do we do to get back on track?

Here are four suggestions:

 1- Stop messing with the settings like trying to read your bible more, pray more, try harder, promising to stop or change or go to church more. More activity will only take you in the same direction until you change it.

 2- “Put your hands in your pockets”. Not literally, just get your hands off of it. Now, get quiet and ask Father. “I am struggling with (you fill in your blank)”... “what do you want to say to me about this?” or Lord, what do I need to know about this?” or "Lord what would you have me do?” He wants to answer, we just need to stop and listen.

 3- Refer to the Owners Manual for the “Default” settings. Here are a few suggestions. Romans 5:10, Romans 6:6, II Corinthians 5:17,21 Galatians 2:20, Galatians 5:16. And notice the order of events in Galatians 5:16 it is essential.

 4- And finally, call a consultant. Your Pastor, a trusted friend...one who will first listen but then, tell you what you need to hear rather than what you want to hear. Here’s a novel idea send me an email. That’s why I do this blog.

Once you have restored the “Defaults” the view will become crystal clear! Things will run more smoothly and you will experience peace, maybe for the first time in a long time.......

Do your “Defaults” need Resetting?

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Classic Christianity by Bob George

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