Tuned In
What’s it mean to be tuned in? A popular online dictionary defines tune (noun) as “an agreement in pitch; unison; harmony.” As a verb, its defined as “to bring (someone or something) into harmony” or, in the context of radio, “to adjust so as to receive the signals of a particular transmitting station.”
So often I find myself missing the larger blocks of time with God. While I don’t want to get trapped in any fixed procedure in my time with Him, I am careful not to be too rigid in when I read my Bible or pray, while being as regular in these moments as I can. But I tell you, because I “pray continually” and “give thanks in all circumstances”
Reading more in my next sitting to make up for it doesn’t mean anything, because it’s that daily immersion—not just reading—that tunes me in to God’s way of thinking. If the Father is speaking to me through His Word, but I’m not tuned in, how can I hear Him? How can I be aligned with His will if I’m not aligned with His broadcast?
Now, I realize also that He’s broadcasting on a variety of frequencies, but if I’m constantly changing stations—either because it’s not my favorite song or there’s too many commercials— how will I ever really hear what He’s saying? In one breath I say, “God, I want to do your will,” only later to ask, “God, why won’t you tell me what you want me to do?” And only during moments like these am I really tuned in. Unfortunately, I more frequently hear Him say, “Because you’re not listening.”
Do you know anybody like this? One who asks a question but doesn’t wait for the response? Am I that impatient? Am I really not listening? Maybe I’m hoping God will unveil some new, hidden purpose He wants me to perform? And maybe that’s because I don’t like the ones He’s already asked me to do. Who am I to pick and choose which commands to obey? Am I His equal? Am I not His servant? Should I not be constantly tuned in to His Word and moving in accordance with His Spirit?
Of course I should. I must. Why do I allow myself to maintain such a cavalier attitude towards these things. Thirteen years ago, He gave me new life and showed me my purpose! And I was so fired up to finally know what it was. Is it too hard? Is it too high a price? Why am I looking so hard for a different one?
I realize, in writing this, that God’s will for me has never changed. My purpose, given to me before He called me, is unchanged. And quite honestly, it’s a pretty good one. It’s the best! I think if I just stay on task and obey, I wouldn’t have to ask so many questions.
So, I guess, now that I’m tuned in, I can start to “receive the signals of His particular transmitting station,” and get the information and direction He’s sending my way.
