Back in 1982 a new home computer hit the market and became one of the best selling computers of all times. It was called the Commodore 64, or C64. The 64 in its name represents its 64 kilobytes of RAM memory. To put things in perspective, an entry level Apple Watch today has 512 megabytes of RAM—8,000 times that of the C64. One might say that computer technology has advanced or matured dramatically over the past few decades. Today, perhaps more than anything else, technology defines who we are. It has reshaped our culture, business, industry, agriculture, etc. But is all of the reshaping good?
Did you reminisce lately? Do you remember when you spent less time with gadgets and more time with people? Do you remember when learning, for people of all walks of life, was the result of exploration, experimentation and conversation? Do you remember when morality was an absolute, when people did not have the misconception that they were entitled to their own truth? Do you remember when it was okay to express your opinion even if it was not the same as your neighbor’s? Do you remember when there was a semblance of government for the people and by the people? My, how times have changed—and not always for the better. These, and many other so called “advancements,” were undeniably effected (caused), at least in part, by our love for technology. Technology has been very instrumental in making it easier to be captains of our own fate, an “advancement” that is proving itself fatal. What should we do?
Jeremiah was inspired by God to admonish Israel of old, “Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.” (Jeremiah 6:16). As a result of their hard heartedness, Israel lost its identity and was taken captive by other nations.
We don’t have to make the same mistakes. Rest your thumbs, stand still and look around! A Return to the “Old Paths” will insure our continued deliverance in this evil age. These paths are illuminated in the pages of Scripture—the Bible.