Reset and Recenter: A Christian's Guide to Faith and Technologyනියැදිය

Leaning Into Dependence

Yesterday we talked about how technology and self-sufficiency can be an obstacle to connecting with others. Today let’s explore what it looks like to lean into connection.

First: How do you feel about “dependence”? If you don’t like the sound of it, that’s understandable! It runs counter to so many cultures today.

But when we look at descriptions of the early church in the Book of Acts, we see that it was a tight-knit community marked by dependence:

All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.Acts 2:44-47 NIV

The believers’ lives were radically integrated. Whether they were giving up what they had to meet the needs of others, worshiping together, or eating together, they lived out their faith not independently, but interdependently.

And what was the result? The Lord added to their number daily.

These early believers knew they needed to depend on one another. And when we allow technology to eliminate dependence on others, it becomes harder for us to live out the calling God has given us—to be the Church, the body of Christ.

Breaking our habits of independence might be the most different challenge we take on. So today, spend a few extra minutes in reflection. You might reread today’s Scriptures a few times before coming back to journal and reflect.

Journal and Reflect

• What actions do you see the early believers taking together? Which of these actions are already a regular part of your life? Which ones would feel most challenging to adopt?
• How could technology help you pursue the type of connection with other people that’s described in the early church?
• Today’s reading ends with, “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” How does this challenge or encourage you as you think about your relationships with others?

Pray

Heavenly Father, please humble me and help me lean into interdependence with Your people. Remove pride from me. Help me seek out community and relationships. Grow me in generosity toward those in need, and guide me in sharing Your goodness every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.