Can’t Leave Home without It

Once there was a commercial: “American Express Card…Don’t leave home without it.” I’ve managed to live my life thus far without that card. But I can’t seem to leave my house without my cell phone.

When I’m rushing out the door, it’s not enough to grab my purse and car keys. I NEED my cell phone in case of a flat tire, a California earthquake, or a family emergency. Like the day my daughter called. “Mom, if you’re going to the store, we NEED Rocky Road Ice Cream!

My cell phone is also necessary for those must-see-now text messages and Face Book status updates. My phone riiiings or beeeps and I immediately stop what I’m doing. Might be important!

IF ONLY I responded that quickly when the Holy Spirit prompts me.

Somewhere along the way, my cell phone became part of my attire. Like my earrings. I feel naked if I leave home without them.

This summer, my cell phone has spent a lot of time nestled in my pant’s back pocket. Whether I’m walking, cleaning house, or doing yard work, I’m a convenient phone call away. Never mind that I only answer the phone if I know the person, and I’m in the mood to talk.

Lately, my phone has been on vibrate. Not smart. Too often I forget where I left it. It’s become a daily treasure hunt. I dial my cell phone number from my house phone. Then I tiptoe around the house, straining to hear the bzzzz sound. Thrice now, it’s been in my pant’s back pocket. My buns jiggled before my ears heard the bzzzz.

Which got me to thinking……….

Imagine how much fruit I’d bear each day IF ONLY I would abide (or remain) in Christ to the same extent I’m attached to my cell phone.

“I am the vine;you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).

IF ONLY I clung to Christ, the vine, throughout my day.

IF ONLY I panicked when I forgot or neglected His presence.

IF ONLY I remained so close to Jesus that I constantly heard His still small voice nudging me to keep His commandments.

Imagine how much joy I’d experience. How differently I’d live. (John 15:11-12)

Author: Karen Foster

I'd like to say I've changed, but after decades of living, I still have the same four passions. My relationship with Jesus, spending time with family, attending live theater, and writing devotions & first-person stories about a loving, faithful God who reveals Himself in our every day circumstances. View all posts by Karen Foster