Merciless.
Aggressive.
Punishing.
Unforgiving.
Dominating.
Who am I describing?
My chess computer (Yes, it is alive and no one can tell me otherwise …). I am playing at a level now where I now see all of the above attributes on display. I am learning to counter the computer’s vicious approach to the game though. Do you know how?
Three words. Keep it simple.
What do I mean? Execute the basics. Don’t get fancy. Don’t rush things. Employ time-tested principles. Don’t overthink things. With this approach, I am getting closer to winning.
This approach will serve us as Christians as well. We tend to try and push the limits.
We figure that we can move a little closer to the sin, but not cross the line. Checkmate.
We think we can live outside the boundaries of God’s Word. Checkmate.
We decide to live life on our own terms. Checkmate.
We look to outsmart God. Checkmate.
We figure we know enough to go it on our own. Checkmate.
The funny thing is, when we live in these ways, it seems like things are going alright for a while (just like my chess game). Then, the thing we didn’t see coming shows up and we have no moves left.
No. I am learning that it is much better to keep it simple when living before God. Execute the basics. Don’t rush things. Don’t overthink things. Live as God tells me to live. Trust and depend on Him. Let Him guide me.
I am tired of losing to my chess computer, but I keep going back for more. I am just not one to give up. Every loss just makes me more determined.
I am tired of sinning, but sometimes I still do. I am just not one to give up on walking in obedience to God. Every sin just makes me more determined.
How about you? Are you keeping it simple?
For Jesus,
Rob