The Pursuit of New Things

“Certain Epicurean and Stoic teachers also debated with him. . . . ‘We would like to know what this new teaching is that you are talking about. . . .’ (For all the citizens of Athens and the foreigners who lived there liked to spend all their time telling and hearing the latest new thing.)” Acts 17:18-21 Good News Bible

It can seem hard to imagine a world without computers. Yet, in fact, their history is comparatively brief.

The modern computer era was initiated 65 years ago this month when Univac 1, the world’s first commercial computer, was unveiled. Today, computers dominate our lives in ways that could never have been anticipated.

Computer capacity and speed continually improve, and models quickly become obsolete. The rate of change makes some perpetually discontent, driven to have the newest and best technology.

Paul discovered this same obsession with the “new” in Athens where people liked to spend time obsessed with “the latest new thing.” The Gospel, to them, was just a curiosity. Soon, most went on to pursue other “new” things.

There are many ways our lives can be dominated by the quest for new things. We are flooded with promotions for new products. New styles and fashions fill stores each year. The latest gossip dominates many conversations.

But the Bible warns us against being obsessed with the new. He wants us to base our lives on His timeless Word, and principles that are eternal. Paul warned us not to be fixated on the temporary things of this world. To remember that “what can be seen lasts only for a time, but what cannot be seen lasts forever” (2 Corinthians 4:18).

In your life, remember that change is inevitable. Today’s breakthroughs quickly become tomorrow’s “old news.” Every day we see the reality that the things of this world are passing away. Make sure that you make God’s Word the stability of your life.

Prayer: Father, forgive me for placing my trust in the things of this world. Help me to place my faith and trust in Your timeless Word. I seek first Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.