Reflections: Lessons from my cell phone

Has anyone noticed how different our expectations are now from the days before cell phones? People my age remember one house phone, on the kitchen wall or a hallway table. For larger or two-story homes, a second extension made things a little handier; and privacy increased exponentially with a cord long enough to allow carrying the handset into a bedroom or bathroom—or eventually, an extension in my bedroom! 

In addition to taking convenience for granted, other expectations have changed with cell phones, particularly with regard to how quickly we expect a response. During my high school years, only the rich and powerful—successful business owners or occasionally community leaders—had a phone in their car so an assistant or client could reach them quickly. Prior to answering machines, people were either at home when you called, or they weren’t. If they weren’t, you tried again later. During my husband’s early teaching days, a parent with a question didn’t expect an immediate reply to a text sent during the evening or weekend. People who were off work, were actually off work, except for first responders or medical professionals on call with a pager.

Fast-forward to now: We tend to expect people to either answer their cell phone or get back with us right away. The change isn’t all bad; for example, it allows us to keep a little bit closer tabs on our teenage drivers and elderly parents. Now that I am the elderly parent, I have actually gotten the call, “Mom, you okay? Just checking to see if you made it home from that conference!” Or location services: “I see you haven’t passed Menard’s yet; could you grab something for me?” (That was me, actually, to husband.) 

So, where am I going with this? During my devotional time recently, I began feeling a spiritual application about cell phones and other conveniences. Since my work is flexible, people sometimes assume I’m always available; I have to consciously decide to lay my phone aside or enable “emergency notifications only,” to focus on study or prayer. I need that time to hear from God, not from everyone else. 

On the other hand, though, I’m thankful for 24/7 access to the One who has NEVER needed a cell phone in order to be available and ready to listen! The Psalms frequently voice reassurance of God’s nearness, such as Psalm 139:8, “If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.” 

David and others also had numerous times, though, of not feeling God’s immediate presence. Many Psalms begin with the words “Hear my cry, oh Lord!” and several prophets also record times of lament. Without fail, though, that time spent crying leads eventually to a place of feeling God’s presence, such as “But then I entered the sanctuary of God” (Psalm 73). Even if it takes a while or is still to be fulfilled, the prophets are assured God’s purpose will be accomplished. When we spend time reading their stories in the Bible, or just being still before God, our confidence grows. 

A great song from a 2020 Chris Tomlin and Friends album reminds us that we serve the “God Who Listens.” Christians suffering for their faith ask for prayer because they know those prayers do not fall on deaf ears. When I feel overwhelmed by circumstances or chaotic newscasts, I can still feel the assurance of the Holy Spirit that He hears, is with me and will guide me.