Previous Next

Finding Home

Currently Being Moderated
172

The Bible vs. The iPhone

Posted by Jim_Daly on Dec 27, 2011 5:05:20 AM

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

 

Here is an email that's been making the rounds. How does it strike you?iphone6.jpg

 

Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?

What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?

What if we flipped through it several times a day?

What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?

What if we used it to receive messages from the text?

What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?

What if we gave it to kids as gifts? bible1.jpg

What if we used it when we traveled?

What if we used it in case of emergency?

This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?

Oh, and one more thing.

Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being
disconnected, because Jesus already paid the bill.

Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities'?

And no dropped calls!

 

ALSO THIS WEEK:   The Solution to All Your Problems   The Mark of a Champion

 

Follow me on Twitter @Dalyfocus

Follow me on Facebook

Keep up with Focus on the Family on Facebook

35,532 Views Twitter Facebook Tags: apple, iphone


Comments (172)
Add a comment Leave a comment on this blog post.
Dec 27, 2011 4:07 PM Guest Bryan  says:
My Bible is my cell phone, but I get your point.
Dec 27, 2011 8:53 PM Guest Fel  says:
Great Point! I used this as object lesson 1x. Very practical and makes one reflect our priorities in life. Man shall not live by bread alone...... Gods Word in never fails like our finite creations!
Dec 28, 2011 6:29 AM Guest Beatrice  says:
In an emergency, I'll keep my iPhone, thanks.  Try calling 911 with a BIble and see how long you wait for an ambulance.
Dec 28, 2011 6:01 AM Guest Martha  says:

I also have the YouVersion Bible app on my phone from youversion.com and love it. I have my Bible as well as my reading plan with me wherever I go. I also have a great scripture memory app from memorizehisword.com.

 

Blessings, Martha
Dec 28, 2011 6:08 AM Guest Gladys  says:

Thanks for bringing this up. I know the danger of iPhone dependence!

One thing I love about my iPhone is that it keeps the Bible at my fingertips. I have a Bible app and I use it daily. My 8 year old and I followed a reading plan for one month leading to Christmas day. I'm now starting the book of Luke. I particularly like the fact that I can use the audio portion of the Bible app as well!
Dec 28, 2011 6:13 AM Guest stacey  says:
But I have the Bible on my IPad.
Dec 28, 2011 6:15 AM Guest yoyo  says:
It is a good point when considering materialism. But I don't think it's a perfect example. If we could use the Bible like an iPhone then maybe it would work. But I can't setup appointments with jobs and friends through the Bible. I can't let someone know I'm heading over through the Bible. If I'm expecting a call, I'm not going to sit there holding my Bible waiting for it to ring. I by all means to not say anything negative about the Bible. I agree 100% that we don't make it as important as the things we use iPhones for. But this may not be the best way to get the point across because it has too many loop holes.
Dec 28, 2011 9:38 AM Guest @michael  says:

My Bible is on my cell phone as well.  My wife and I use YouVersion and the reading plans it offers.  I am a pastor and have always read my Bible, but it wasn't until having the ability to read the Bible on my phone that it has become part of my every day life for the entire year.  My wife's testimony is the same ... in January 2011 she began to read daily, and it has changed her outlook on her job and some of the things that are not always easy to deal with in every day life at home and work.  God intends for His word to be in our lives.  Smart phone technology makes this easier.  I encourager everyone to checkout http://www.youversion.com/ online and to download the Bible on their phone.

 

Michael H.  (Collinsville, VA)
Dec 28, 2011 7:33 AM Guest Grammy B.  says:
My Bible is on my iPhone -- two different applications (Olive Tree and YouVersion) for specific reasons.  I use them both.  I am grateful for a Pastor who knows I'm not texting, too!  Every member of my family using SmartPhones has their favorite version. The application of the article, though, is valid -- even with the Bible on the phone -- is it the most used, most important part?  Carrying an unopened Bible has no value.
Dec 28, 2011 7:35 AM Guest Walter M.  says in response to Bryan:
I don't have an iPhone, but if I treated the Bible like my cell phone, it would only get used in emergencies or when absolutely necessary, and it would cost me $1 every time I opened it.  I would have to pay $25-$50 every few months for the privilege of using it.  It would usually be in my jacket pocket and I might not hear it every time it rang.  I would eventually see that I had a missed call, but it wouldn't interrupt my daily life much.  I hope I will always consider my Bible to be more important.  My children all have the Bible on their cell phones, and it's funny to see them pull them out in church.
Dec 28, 2011 7:36 AM Guest Michele  says:
I love having the Blue Letter Bible app on my iPhone. It's free, has tremendous resources (used it on my PC for years). But I still carry a pocket Bible in my purse. Too bad you can't swipe your finger across a pocket Bible to make the print bigger!
Dec 28, 2011 7:37 AM Guest Richard H.  says in response to Bryan:
Amen - that is my bible too.  Key is to use it regurlary for that purpose!
Dec 28, 2011 7:38 AM Guest Tracy  says:
This is a great point. Some of the comments seem to take it too literally. The point is just that we should read and depend on our Bible more than anything else in our lives. It is our constant connection to Jesus! I love that you remind us of that.
Dec 28, 2011 7:38 AM Guest Denise K.  says in response to Beatrice:
Clearly, Mr. Daly is not referring to an actual life and death situation.  Why the sarcasm?
Dec 28, 2011 7:39 AM Guest Monica  says:
Convicting - and I agree!
My thirst for the Word of God needs to exceed all else.
Dec 28, 2011 7:40 AM Guest Preston  says:

What if we used our Bible like we use our smart phones?

- to build and maintain relationships at a variety of levels

- to improve personal relationships (as well as destroy them)

- to grow in knowledge of all kinds - good and bad

- as an instrument to show love

- as an instrument to render judgement


Both are tools - used properly only when we place serving and living for Jesus at the center of our lives.
Dec 28, 2011 7:52 AM Guest Denny  says:
I agree with everything you say. We need  to stay connected with God all the time. Having the Bible on my iPhone helps me do that.
Dec 28, 2011 7:53 AM Guest Janet  says:
I wonder if Moses would have made it across the Red Sea if he had a cell phone back then.  :o)  God is faster at answering prayer than a phone because He knows everything and sees everything.  We need to have the Word hid in our heart and treat the Bible with respect and not disdain.  We personally do not own cell phones and love it.  We have real lives and have "down" times when nobody can reach us and that makes us very happy.  I just could not imagine being available to the whole world 24 hours a day 7 days a week.  No thank you.
Dec 28, 2011 7:54 AM Guest Joe  says in response to Beatrice:
Actually, Prayer works better than 911.
Dec 28, 2011 7:56 AM Guest Grant J.  says:
My opinion only....but I think some have missed the point of this. Its not that we use the Bible as we would an electronic device. What I take away is that our culture has turned attention to the need of these devices, and we have such concern whether we have it at all times. The simple message here is that we place so little importance to God's word, keeping it close to our center of gravity in this world, and most of all that we connect with God's voice when we get in and spend time. I'm talking to myself...but fortunately don't have an addiction to electronic toys of today. There is a plus in getting older.....I appreciate the writers intent....thank you.
Dec 28, 2011 7:57 AM Guest Jim H.  says in response to Beatrice:

Beatrice,

A few years ago, a pickup crossed in front of us and we t-boned him. There was no time to call 911, only time to voice a quick prayer.  As we sat in our wrecked car and took a deep breath, we thanked God that we weren't hurt.  Instantly, a fire truck with EMT was there making sure we weren't hurt, cleaning up the leaking coolant, and expressing amazement that nobody was hurt.  Where did they come from?  They were already there when we collided with the pickup. Moral: the iphone is OK, but prayer is better.

Blessings, Jim
Dec 28, 2011 8:05 AM Guest igetit  says in response to yoyo:
The point is not to replace your iphone with your Bible.  The point is to treat your Bible with the same diligence and attention as you do your phone.  The analogy totally works.  I will be reusing it!
Dec 28, 2011 8:07 AM Guest Scott from Tennessee  says:

Great word sir.  As Randy Alcorn points out in 'Money Possessions, and Eternity', the material and financial  things we automatically consider to be "blessings" can sometimes be  curses when weighed against God's perspective -- the iPhone and smart  phones, in this context, could fit that very description.

 

We don't have data plans on our phones... a lot of which, admittedly, is economics and just trying to pay the bills as they are -- and I even work in media as a freelancer.  I would probably get 'deep' into an iPhone or higher grade smart phone if I had one that came with all of the internet at my every whim and wish --- the internet that I currently spend enough time on just sitting at my desktop PC!  Our Western world has gone 'media and data crazy at our fingertips', and it's only going to get worse.  The still small voice beckons us to return back to the Word.

 

And while it might be nice to one day have data on my phone, which would even have a Bible app I'm sure, I think there is something to be said about holding an actual Bible and turning physical pages of God's Word --- ingesting the weath within.  ...marking and underlining things we need to consider further, holding the leather book in our hands, feeling the weight of it (physically and spiritually).  Indeed, man shall not live by (smart phones) alone!!  [my paraphrase]
Dec 28, 2011 8:09 AM Guest Arne L.  says:

I have an audio bible on my iPhone which I can't live without.  I am near the end of the year where I can honestly say I've read through the bible once.  Can't wait for January 1st to roll around so I can start the reading plan all over again.

 

Been a Christian for 25 years, tried to "read" the bible multiple times, but with the Audi version I can read along, replay if need be. Truy the best application I've purchased.

 

Being in the word daily allows me to see my sin for what it is, and my daily battles with sin are much easier to avoid. The choice is yours, read the Word and be a victor, or stay out of it and battle hard! I chose the Word to WIN.
Dec 28, 2011 8:10 AM Guest Rusty  says:
Apparently, some of you have missed the point.  He didn't say we should replace our iPhone with our Bible.  He said we should consider the Bible to be at least as important to our lives as our phone.  Of course, it is much more important!  As he said, where are our priorities?
Dec 28, 2011 8:11 AM Guest Dr. Susan S.  says:

In my case if I used my Bible as my cell phone it would rarely be used... inside my purse somewhere & never Charged...neglected & forgotten, never answered.

On the other hand...I have a Bible in every room of my house & 2 in my car...everywhere I go I travel with it, read it on the planes...take it into resturants while I am waiting for my meal...I wake up & read it for at least 45 min. to an hour...and I do not watch TV so there are lots of evenings I read it before going to sleep & if I wake up in the middle of the night....God forbid I was that addicted to my cell phone...think of all the EMF ( electromagnetic frequencies to my brain on a constant basis) as for me & my house...our daily bread is the living word of God which is life & health to ALL of my flesh...and that applys to only those who do seek his word.. (Thank God that is what I live to do)...my cell phone comes dead last on my list of priorities...so even though I get your point for the general public....I am glad I am on the flip side of it.
Dec 28, 2011 8:18 AM Guest Nana  says in response to yoyo:
You missed the point.  How do you treat your Bible?  Do you carry it with you, flip through it several times a day, receive its message, treat it like you can't live without it?  In general, people treat their iphones better than they treat their Bibles - their iphones are more important to them!
Dec 28, 2011 8:18 AM Guest Daniel  says in response to yoyo:

Some of you guys are just not getting the comparison. He never said we should replace one with the other. He was only trying to make the point that if we made intentional contact with God (through His written Word and also through prayer) as many times a day as we consult our agenda and contact the people around us... that would be good.

 

And whoever said it's not a perfect example, have you ever seen a "perfect" example (or comparison) of anything?
Dec 28, 2011 8:20 AM Guest Pam  says:

This artice is a good reminder for me about something I have been working on for myself the last 6 months.  About that time, I realized the amount of time I was spending on technology, internet/cell phone.  I started to realize that a lot of my time was being wasted and that I could gain valuable minutes to spend with people if I eliminated technology time.  At first, I didn't want to think about it because using technology puts so much valuable information at my fingertips......I need it!  Then I realized how many more hours of time for work I was adding to my day because I could carry work with me thanks to technology.  I also had noticed a decrease in the time I spent in studying God's Word and in prayer as well as letting technology interrupt family or friend time.  What if I did carry my Bible with me and everytime I had free time instead of checking e-mail, sport scores, the weather, sales, or e-mailing someone, working or texting, I spent time with God?  How much time would I actually spend with my Heavenly Father, time that I had lost?  You can see that I still use technology but the balance is better than in the past.  I need to put down technology and listen spend time with God, family and friends face to face.  For me relationship has always been spelled T-I-M-E.  It takes time to build relationship with anyone including God.  I challenge myself and others to put down our cell phones or find an app that includes God's Word and spend time focusing on God.  I want to keep the main thing the main thing in my life.  Somehow that has gotten a little out of place.  Time to put God first and technology.........well much further down my priority list!
Dec 28, 2011 8:22 AM Guest Randy  says in response to Beatrice:

The Bible says "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was God, and was with God and the Word became flesh and lived among us." His Word is how he speaks to us, comforts us, and communicates His will, wisdom, and love for us every day.  I start out reading and studying it nearly every day of my life. I can't imagine going through the 911's that come into everyone's life without Him and his Word there to comfort me.
Dec 28, 2011 8:24 AM Guest Tammy  says in response to Beatrice:
Wow.....having a bad day? I hope it gets better for you, Beatrice.
Dec 28, 2011 8:25 AM Guest G  says in response to Beatrice:
Beatrice.....consider that if you keep God's Word, (The Bible) with you and His Word stored up in you...you may not need to wait for the ambulance because the Word healed you!
Dec 28, 2011 7:13 AM Guest Becky  says:
This is one of my favorite modern day parables.  It is a great parable for young Christian teens today.  I was greatly amused by some of the comments following the blog - not saying that they are bad points, but the picture that went through my head was this: Jesus answering someone's question with a parable.  The person he answered needed the parable.  Then, I picture the religious people pointing out why it isn't the best way to get the point across.  It isn't the best way for that person to get the message maybe, but for the people it is intended for, it is  the perfect way.
Dec 28, 2011 7:13 AM Guest Dan H.  says:
Honestly, It would probably alter our lifestyle. If we embraced our bible and used it to the degree we use our phone. Makes you think. Great thought provoking email.
Dec 28, 2011 7:13 AM Guest Andy  says in response to Beatrice:
I'm sure you're not implying that this was Jim's point. Why take such an obtuse angle to slice apart the true meaning of this email?
Dec 28, 2011 7:14 AM Guest Sarah  says:
I don't think he's telling us to not use our smart phones... just what if we used our Bibles like we use our smart phones. Totally agree!
Dec 28, 2011 7:20 AM Guest Andy  says:
Why ate so many of these posts getting stuck in the "what" and not seeing the "why?". Jim's point isn't that we can substitute our paper bible for our iPhones, but to ask why do we care so deeply for the phone as a device for communicating with others and "using" yet so many people ( of course not these blog posters included) leave the Bible "on the shelf," even if it is a virtual shelf in their phone.
Dec 28, 2011 7:21 AM Guest sue  says in response to yoyo:
-only if you are looking for them....
Dec 28, 2011 7:24 AM Guest sue  says in response to Beatrice:
trying calling God in an emergency on your iphone...God should be who is called first WHILE dialing 911
Dec 28, 2011 7:27 AM Guest Jack  says in response to Beatrice:

Actually Beatrice, the question was "what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?" NOT "why not replace your phone with your bible?".  The author doesn't suggest using only your bible in an emergency, but suggests also using it.

 
Dec 28, 2011 7:27 AM Guest Tracy  says:
I think some of you might have missed the point by just a bit.  I remember a time when the cell phone was just a communicator on Star Trek.  The best you could hope for was a walkie-Talkie or a CB Radio in the car.  If fact, I remember a time when we didn't have a phone in the house!  Or a TV to watch Star Trek!  Wow!  What peace we had at home!  Did we worry about family going on long trips?  Yes, but not as much as we do today.  We are too dependent on technology and don't leave enough room for God's Word on a daily basis.  What would happen if a terrorist knocked down every cell tower in the US?  Would we survive the calamity?  Of course!  And so would our Bible!  We should all try to disconnect from the matrix and re-connect with our Bible!
Dec 28, 2011 7:29 AM Guest Tim  says in response to yoyo:

Yoyo and Beatrice, I think you missed he point. The point is we worship technology like we should be reading/studying the Bible. Not that we should be able to use the Bible like the IPhone. People put lots of importance in this device(me at some times too) and Satan uses it as a huge distraction to not put God first. I think that is the point Mr Daly is trying to get across.

BTW, it worked for me. I think its an everyday battle to get up and get prioritize in the spirit!!
Dec 28, 2011 7:30 AM Guest Laurie  says:

I'm afraid some are missing the point... the email is not suggesting we replace our iPhones with the bible in such a literal sense ( ie. calling 911 or making appointments). rather, it's opening our eyes to how little we sometimes think about our bibles and how valuable they are. an " emergency" could mean understanding how to handle an emotional crisis or needing an immediate place to "hide" when faced with temptation to a stronghold we have been working to stay away from. yet we wouldn't dream of leaving our iPhones sitting to gather dust for days at a time
Dec 28, 2011 8:09 AM Guest Ted B.  says:
I love my Smart Phone. It allows me to read my Morning Devotional from Bible.com anywhere
Dec 28, 2011 7:35 AM Guest Nicki  says:

Great point!

I understand that this was not meant to be taken literally as in let's call 911 with it...but I will tell you this...after losing my father in law, my son having a severe knee surgery, my dad having bleeding unexpected and then finding out I have a tumor on my thyroid all in a 3 month period...it was MY 911!

It's just to put into perspective, do we love our Bible and use it the way obsess over our iphones or for that fact, anything else. I have 3 teenage boys with iphones/phones and I have used an example like this many times with them...even referencing video games, weight room and tv time in that example too. We just all need that gentle reminder from time to time...thanks!

Dec 28, 2011 8:14 AM Guest Daniel A.  says in response to Beatrice:

I have several copies of the Bible on my iPad, and other great texts, try carrying a bunch of books around. As for calling 911 or Jesus, I will call Jesus every time.

God may say 'wait', or 'no' or He may have help at hand but it may not be what is wanted and therefore rejected.
Dec 28, 2011 7:37 AM Guest Bonnie  says:

Some of you are missing the point.  Thats great that your Bible is on your iPhone.. but that is not what the article is saying....  When you go to a restaraunt.. people have their phones pulled out texting, surfing the web, doing other things with their phone, and not reading the Bible.  Its great to have a Bible app on your phone but are you opening it only during the church service, or do you open it several times a day.  Seriously listen to our excuses here...  You can come across self righeous, but only you and God knows if your in the iPhone, or in the Word!  If makes me sad to see so many defend their phone use, as we should always be striving to read more of God's word as we mature in Him, it should be a never ending desire of wanting wanting wanting more of Him.  Reevaluate your hearts if your so quick to defend your iPhone usage or any phone usage for that matter.  Its a difference of opening your phone 20-30 times a day vs opeing the pages of Gods word once a day or once a week.
Dec 28, 2011 7:38 AM Guest Mmkvickers  says:
Okay, these comments are hilarious. You're missing the point, people. He's not suggesting you get rid of your phone, nor is he suggesting that you never use your phone, he's pointing out the time spent on the phone versus in the Word. When Jesus is our all, but we spend five minutes in the word versus an hour or two total on the phone...there is an I'm slance.
Dec 28, 2011 7:38 AM Guest Nancy  says:
I am unpleasantly surprised with the majority of the comments that I have read thus far.  The article said nothing about replacing you cell with the Bible.  For those that have the capabilities of having added the app to your phone is wonderful if used, but again not the point of the article.  The whole point is that most of us can't live without our cells but we do live without our Bibles.  If I forgot my bible somewhere I would say I'll get it next time I go(having other bibles available to me at home) but if I forgot my cell phone I would turn around and go get it.  Of course the bible can not call 911 but you might be surprised at the help that would come if you prayed on the scene.
Dec 28, 2011 7:39 AM Guest Kimberly  says in response to yoyo:

The point is to condider the value we place on the iPhone vs. God's Word, not to make a literal comparison of features and benefits.
Dec 28, 2011 7:40 AM Guest Mary  says:
Jim isn't saying use the Bible like a cell phone or in place of a cell phone. He is saying treat the Bible like we treat our cellphone. I think some people missed the point. And I have my Bible on my phone also. I think I will try to utilize technology to use this awesome gift of God's word more often now.
Dec 28, 2011 8:47 AM Guest Robert M.  says:
What if we used it to download applications?
Dec 28, 2011 7:47 AM Guest Dan  says in response to Beatrice:
I think this is one of the great failings of our culture (and one I struggle with constantly)--we rely on human resources first and God second.  Itshould be the other way around.  Who is better able to rescue from an emergency, God or man?  Who is the better physician, God or man?  I'm not saying don't use human resources--doctors and police and firefighters are a blessing from God, but they should never be a substitute for him.
Dec 28, 2011 7:51 AM Guest Graham  says:
Although I get the gist of the what your saying with texting, twitters, etc, your wrong for many many people who use their iPhone, smartphones and PDAs to read their Bible, do devotions and listen to Worship Music and recordings of pastor's sermon and other evangelists - more so than texting. You and others just don't know this and make wrong assumptions - esp with how popular texting is these days. :-) Nowadays, a phone is more than a phone - it's an Organizer, PDA, mp3 player, ereader, and computer all rolled into one little package. For example, from 1999 - 2009, I was an avid Palm Pilot PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) User. This was long before the iPhone and most smartphones existed. My non-christian employer gave me one after I prayed to God for help in keeping me organized so I can grow closer too Him and help me with work. God answered that prayer through my employer who was not aware of my request and my prayer!!!!! I used that and other palm pilots soo much that my well meaning friends and pastors thought I was addicted to the device and was concerned that I could fall away, especially when they saw me using it during service... What they didn't know was that I was using my PDA to take sermon notes, follow along with the Pastor in multiple Bible translations in my Bible app, and in some cases record the sermon at the same so I can listen too it later. Then when they saw me throughout the week - I was using it to read the Bible, do daily Our Daily Bread devotions, study the previous Sunday's sermon, and listen to Worship Music and some Evangelists as mp3's. Best thing I can do this whereever I go at anytime and all the time!! Now remember, this is long before the iPhone. My friends and pastors where not aware that such technology existed and apologized. Infact I know of Christians that have been doing the same things with their PDA's since the early 90's. That PDA and soon iPod touch is my Calendar, todo list, Bible (4 - 6 translations), A Concordance and Dictonary, Bible atlas, and mp3 player all rolled into one. God used it to answer a prayer, and bring me closer to Him (I know some will be skeptical but it happened). Technology can be a wonderful tool for God and His Work - if used - and used correctly/wisely.
Dec 28, 2011 7:52 AM Guest Shanessy  says in response to Tracy:
I totally agree with you Tracy
Dec 28, 2011 8:59 AM Guest Tonya O.  says:

Wow, I need to do better.  When I don't have my phone with me, I feel like I'm missing one of my arms! But I haven't given my Bible that same level of importance. Thanks for taking the time to post this. I am going to make a conscious effort from now on to ensure I have my Bible with me.  And sure there are apps on my phone, but for me that isn't the same as holding God's word in my hands with no distractions from incoming text messages or e-mails or calls.

God Bless and keep doing what you're doing.  It is truly appreciated!

Tonya
Dec 28, 2011 7:55 AM Guest talldoc  says:
Thanks for encouraging us to reflect on our priorities!
Dec 28, 2011 9:01 AM Guest Michael K.  says:

I too thought, "I have a Bible app on my smart phone".  But then I remembered that there is a "Frequent" selection for organization and app access.  Where did my Bible app appear? 15th.  Very sad. Of course E-Mail, facebook, games, google, calendars all were ahead. Yes, very telling and I'm ashamed.
Dec 28, 2011 8:02 AM Guest Ron  says:
Wow! Some good responses. But I can't believe how many seem to be offended. The purpose is not to make a person put away their toys but to increase the use of God's word. I love it when I see so many with the Bible on their electronic devices. Makes it easier to find the verses they want to read and keeps it with you. No, they really are not really toys for most. They are very valuable tools when used right and become more so when you can quickly read the Bible. I wish I could afford to have one but just have a cheap cell phone. May God's love come through your eletronic device or whatever media you have. Other people too.
Dec 28, 2011 8:04 AM Guest Susan  says in response to Tracy:
Thank you Tracy!  I was just thinking it sounded like some were taking this too literal.  It's meant as an eye opener and it accomplished that for me.
Dec 28, 2011 9:11 AM Guest Wes M.  says:

The "one more thing" line in this article was well placed!  I chuckled at that.

 

While admitting the utility of smartphones, it's damning to note how we love our phones and justify it, but fail to note that our love for the Bible may not be as high.

 

Lets not forget how insanely great God's word is!
Dec 28, 2011 9:11 AM Guest Nikki C.  says:
Amazing thoughts. I am fully convicted and convinced. I want to be in the word daily but why not hourly as its not possible now. I will use my I touch to read the word more. when I check my phone constantly I will feel convicted to chat with the Lord and get in his Holy word. Hofully that will convince me to fall on my face more.
Dec 28, 2011 8:21 AM Guest David  says in response to Beatrice:

I think the point is not about replacing a phone with the Bible, but to get the reader to compare their phone use with their Bible use.  It asks "where are my priorities".
Dec 28, 2011 9:12 AM Guest Laura L.  says:

Just posted this to my twitter and FB account pages.  Interesting thought.  I think I will make this my New Years Resolution.  To carry, read, browse through in line, use for information and to seek assistance this year.  Thanks Jim!!
Dec 28, 2011 8:30 AM Guest Mike  says:

This is a great analogy!  And how true.  Unfortunately it seems that a few readers have misunderstood the point.  You are not comparing the bible to the iPhone and asking readers to choose between one or the other ("try calling 911 with your bible").  You are simply stating, "What if we treated the Bible like we treat our iPhone".  Point well taken!  What if our children saw us putting a similar importance to God's word?  Wow!
Dec 28, 2011 9:14 AM Guest Charles M.  says:
Not a problem. As long as people do not read their bibles out loud in the movies.
Dec 28, 2011 8:30 AM Guest Katie  says:

I was saddened by the comments I read. Just how absolutely dependant  we are on our phones. I am an iPhone, iPad user. I treat my phone better than my bible at times too, I have the bible apps, devotional apps, but I don't think it should in any way take the place of His Holy book! The point I got was the comparison between our bible and phones, and everyone came back with "but I have the app!" that really convicted me. The is one area I want to remain old school. There's something about holding,reading, highlighting on our own bible. I appreciated technology and all the good and convenience it brings I know pastors use iPads, PowerPoint as an aid in their sermons and notes but I don't think they would replace the Bible itself for "an app." Thank you the example. I got the point and am so guilty of what was said about our iPhones.

Dec 28, 2011 9:18 AM Guest Janice R.  says in response to Monica:
That's the point.
Dec 28, 2011 8:32 AM Guest Lone Oak  says in response to Beatrice:
You are missing the point of the message. You can carry BOTH a Bible and your iPhone. Back before there were ever cell phones at all, what do you think people did in emergencies? They walked to a phone, or they waited in the car until a passerby saw them and offered help. If you depended on oyur Bible like you depend on your cell phone, you'd have a closer relationship with God and be a better person. That's the message.
Dec 28, 2011 8:36 AM Guest Johnnyj  says in response to Beatrice:
Beatrice-you just don't get it do you.  Its about making the bible as much a priority as we do our cell phones
Dec 28, 2011 8:41 AM Guest Glenda  says:
I find it interesting that in some of the comments above some of us still miss the point.  It is not so much how close we have it available it is our use of the Bible in our lives is the point.  I got the point that if I relied on it daily...constantly as a lifeline ...something I can not do without, instead of sometimes.  I'm glad some of us got.
Dec 28, 2011 9:21 AM Guest Stacey P.  says:
Looking at the comments below, I think some folks are missing the point of the email:(
Dec 28, 2011 8:42 AM Guest Teresa  says in response to Beatrice:

@Martha,

Yeah, right Martha. In an emergency of that magnitude, your dependence better be on more than the 911 operator and the ambulance company. I
Dec 28, 2011 9:22 AM Guest Stacey P.  says in response to Tracy:
AMEN!
Dec 28, 2011 8:45 AM Guest Janet  says:
I carry a small Bible in my purse all the time and I still do not own a cell phone. I just really like my quite time and privacy and would never drive and use a phone. I think people think I am lying when they ask for my cell phone number and I tell them I don't have one, they think I don't want to give it to them!  I hate it when I go to lunch with a friend and they answer their cell phone and start having a conversation with someone else, just some advice turn it off when you are visiting a friend or having lunch with them. I think they can be a great tool, I am just not ready for one yet.  Plus I am saving a lot of money.
Dec 28, 2011 8:59 AM Guest klipford  says in response to yoyo:
this is not saying to REPLACE your phone with your Bible it's saying what if we treated our Bible with that much importance how it would make such a difference in our lives.
Dec 28, 2011 9:01 AM Guest Bethany  says:
This was a great article and a wonderful reminder for me!  I definitely turn to my phone many more times during the day than I do my bible.  Actually, I don't even know where my actual bible is since I have one on my phone.  I totally agree with Scott from Tennessee that there is something special about holding an actual bible in your hands as you read rather than a phone.  Thanks again for this article and I resolve to make my bible more of a priority and my phone less of one.  After all you can't take your phone to heaven, but God's word is eteranal and everlasting!!
Dec 28, 2011 9:09 AM Guest Empy P  says in response to Arne L.:

To Arne, just wanted to know if the app you are referring to is the YouVersion, I know it give you some option of audio bible, but I did'nt think it was the whole Bible.

Thanks for you comments
Dec 28, 2011 9:09 AM Guest Jim  says in response to Beatrice:

Bernice,

 

But who do you want to put your faith in man (911 oporator) or Jesus. The point is a cell phone is a tool Jesus is the way and the light.

 

Maybe consider  a bible app for your Iphone,

 

 

Thing about it!!

 

 

God Bless,

 

Jim

Dec 28, 2011 9:51 AM Guest Craig  says:

The question was."Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?" and not "Ever wonder what would happen if you traded in your iPhone for another Bible." I agree these gadgets can be useful in the hands of mature individuals. However, I have seen more often the mindless use of these and similar devices a a mechanism to retreat into alternative, escapist and/or frivolous realities.

Dec 28, 2011 9:52 AM Guest Keith F.  says:
Jim,  with many of the tech savvy  people today, their cell phone is their Bible!  It goes with me everywhere and I can look up a scripture with just a couple of clicks and then I can share it with all my Twitter followers and Facebook friends!  The use of the "electronic" or "digital" Bible is equivalent to the inventing of the printing press and the subsequent printing of the Gutenberg Bible!
Dec 28, 2011 9:12 AM Guest Max  says:
My Bible is on my cell phone. Its the most used app and people want to know and what its about, makes for a good witness.
Dec 28, 2011 9:32 AM Guest Richard  says:
As an usher in my church I am all too familiar with your comment. Some young people sit there with their smart phone in one hand as they worship and cannot go but several seconds without looking down at it. As a delivery driver who sits high in a truck I am also all too familiar with the person who drives with a smart phone in one hand. I timed one girl at a stop light. She couldn't go more than 12 seconds without looking down at the phone. Drove by an express bus stop one morning and no fewer than 14 people stood there waiting for the next bus and they were all looking down at the smart phone in their hand! What will we do when technology and the internet fails! Will we be able to contact God then?
Dec 28, 2011 9:35 AM Guest Jennie  says:

I recently made a goal that I will not pick up my cell phone or any computer until I have read the word of God first. If I use my Bible app, I have to ignore any texts or emails until I have read God's word. I sometimes fail at this, especially if I am running late, but it is true that reading the Bible should be a priority over anything else.

You never know what you are going to read or see on your phone. That is why having a quiet time with the Lord is so important. He will help you face whatever you are about to encounter.
Dec 28, 2011 10:21 AM Guest Mark R  says:
The real point, to me, seems to come from Deut.6:6-9. The word should be upon my heart not just on my I-phone app or even carried in print(remember Moses wrote those words more than 2000 years before the printing press). Do I approach each moment of the day from God's point of view, or from the cultural point of view or even my own point of view?
Dec 28, 2011 9:38 AM Guest Angela H  says in response to Joe:
With Police call times nearing 6+ hours in our area, I would have to agree! My 6yr old insists that we pray every time we hear or see an emergency response vehicle, not only for those they are responding to but the firefighters, police officers, and EMT's involved as well. What if we all took 5 seconds of out time behind the wheel to respond in that wat rather than txting a friend?
Dec 28, 2011 9:40 AM Guest Jason  says:
Loved this article. I think some of the people completely missed the point of the message. I got it & thanks for keeping me in perspective. I definitely do need to pay as much attention to my Bible as I do my cell.
Dec 28, 2011 9:53 AM Guest RENIA  says in response to Beatrice:
With God all things are possible.
Dec 28, 2011 9:57 AM Guest John  says:

Technology is so exciting! People that have smart phones have access to the Bible. There are sites on the internet that have daily reading programs. Lifejournal has a daily reading program through Biblegateway http://lifejournal.cc/bible/ The default NIV version has audio available for the daily Bread, many more versions available. Can you imagine "Faith comes from hearing and hearing the Word of God!" What a way to get your spiritual food. Turn any commute into time with the Lord!...... Lord, I pray that you would bless every person that reads this post, that you would make known to them the inheritance we have in Christ Jesus our Lord.... That through your Word we can transformed and cleaned for your service. Blessed be the God and Father of Lord Jesus Christ who has Blessed us with every spiritual Blessing in the Heavenly places in Christ! Wow!!!!
Dec 28, 2011 10:06 AM Guest nomsa  says in response to yoyo:
re: yoyo: I think you might be carrying the analogy a bit too far, like Beatrice did above. I have to chuckle at both of your responses. kinda funny.
Dec 28, 2011 10:07 AM Guest James in Illinois  says:

Fun to think about, but easy to solve - -
Download your favorite Bible APP to your phone

 

Allow me to add a few disconnects - Please do not misunderstand - I get it.......
And I agree that we do not esteem God's WORD as we should

  • I do not ever leave for work without my shoes - but I still treasure God's word as eternally more valuable than foot coverings
  • will nearly always turn back to my driver's license if I forget my wallet, but that does not mean I like or treasure it more than my Bible
  • There seems to be no rebuttal allowed for your premise. It is true that we typically do not esteem God's word as highly as we should, but if feels a little like one of those e-mail forwards that says - "If you love Jesus - you will forward this on" or, "If you always carry your phone but don’t always have your Bible with you then it means you are ashamed of Him, and you just might find yourself in big trouble."
  • In this case it is like saying, "If you carry your iPhone everywhere and refer to it throughout the day than you are idolizing your phone and besmirching the Bible." -- which I don't think necessarily is completely and wholly true, but it is always good to give yourself a ‘check-up’ once in a while
  • My job requires me to use a PC throughout the day, and while I probably but I have formed a special relationship and depend on this 'tool' -- I do not bow before it or pray to it or use it as my spiritual guide – this is not to say that you article was not good food for thought - it was !!

 

OK Now I will give in - -

 

I would say that no Church youth group attendee EVER FORGETS THEIR PHONE, but often leaves their Bible at home or on the back seat of their car...........
And if your article moves them to be more balanced and diligent in regards to priority, then I applaud you...........
And lastly, we are certainly addicted to our ALWAYS BEING CONNECTED lifestyle. We have forgotten how to just sit quietly before the Father. We have lost the ability to be alone with our thoughts and listen to His soft, still voice.

 

So you are right, too many of us just 'mindlessly' poke away at our electronic devices with our heads down oblivious to the world (never seeing) the white-for-harvest fields.....

 

We are an odd generation - somehow trapped between a longing to hear God's voice, but brought up in a time when our parents did not value (or pass on) an understanding of God as something to be grasped, but only tolerated.

 

So yes, we are so very easily distracted by our things which keep us occupied and too busy to consider much about God. And yet we still wonder if He will somehow reveal Himself to us - but most are simply too busy to hear even if He did speak to us and on top of that, we have no idea how to pursue Him.

 

We are too busy........almost ADHD in our connectedness - I mean we all want to be connected, needed, and feel important; and with our phones we immediately and constantly get this false sense of fulfillment which gives us a false feeling of being loved

Thus we often settle for 2nd best because of our inability (being over stimulated) to tune-in to God


Woe to the next generation to come if we cannot break out of this distraction addiction and just remain in this darkness without God


We are the children at the gate who will not go away, but refuse to pray.............
Dec 28, 2011 10:09 AM Guest Ashley  says:
After reading some comments about how a you can't perform certain functions on a bible, unlike the cellphone, I had to post. This person is not suggesting leave the cellphone at home and take the bible everywhere you go instead. They're proposing the question: what if we treated our bibles with the same vital importance that we treated our cellphone? I don't think they specifically distinguished an electronic bible from a physical book. They weere trying to put the focus on the word of God and develop a necessity and habit out of reading it...
Dec 28, 2011 10:11 AM Guest Ashley  says in response to Keith F.:
I do the same thing with my YouVersion, and it's great!!! Though I don't think they were saying a physical vs. an electronic bible, I think they meant putting the word of God as the focus in their point.
Dec 28, 2011 10:49 AM Guest Adrianne  says:
I thought this article was going to be about the use of a cell phone application.  I have the youversion of the bible on my cell phone and I use it all the time.  There are many different versions of the bible that I can choose with this app and it can even read the bible to me.  I think that having a bible on your phone is a great thing.  There are yearly plans to help you read through the bible in a year.  They also have topic plans.  I think it is good if you use your cell phone as a bible!
Dec 28, 2011 10:12 AM Guest Brent  says:

Good article!

 

Like many others, my Bible (several versions) is on my phone, as well as a scripture memory tool. Thanks to your article, I'm revisiting my efforts to use my phone as a reminder, several times a day, to do a quick review of a passage.

 

I know that if I don't spend time with my Bible, and reviewing scripture, first thing in the morning, before I do anything else, then I probably won't spend time with my Bible at all that day.
Dec 28, 2011 10:18 AM Guest Sarah  says:
I've never liked comparisons like this, because they send a guilt-based message. Couldn't you say the same thing about a job? Most of us work 8 hours at a job....do you spend 8 hours reading your Bible? Living a Spirit filled life is about having Christ as your center...and so it doesn't really come down to "do I read my Bible as much as I use my cell phone" or "Do I pray as much as I talk to my best friend" but rather "Did that conversation with my friend reflect Christ" or "Did my conference call earlier today uphold my convictions about my faith?" Of course studying God's Word and cultivating a relationship with him is of vast importance, but it's not a matter of cutting out "worldly things" and adding "spiritual things" until you have the perfect balance, but rather doing everything with the kind of character and love that points to Jesus.
Dec 28, 2011 10:19 AM Guest Gail G.  says in response to Grant J.:
Ah!  At last someone gets the underlying point!  It is not technology vs. hard copy or using the Bible as technology.  The point is, how dependent--daily and moment by moment--are you on the Word of God (in whatever form you have it)?  How much do you use it as an "app" in your life?  It's a free app, too BTW!
Dec 28, 2011 10:24 AM Guest Ashley  says in response to Beatrice:
Hmmm...interesting... but, their point is not to propose taking one and leaving the other. They're saying what if we treated our bibles w/the same likeness that we treated our cells, that same vital importance. Cellphones are not evil, the person is not saying don't have them; they're a great technical advancement that fulfills our needs to commicate w/one another, and likewise the bible w/God. (By the way, try calling God and see how long you'd have to wait for Him vs. an ambulance!)
Dec 28, 2011 10:26 AM Guest Bob M.  says in response to Tracy:
Tracy, I agree with your perspective.  Thanks for stating it.  Some others missed the basic point.
Dec 28, 2011 10:29 AM Guest Kara  says in response to Beatrice:
I guess if you died you would be happier that you have kept the Bible as priority. I think the point is well made that our focus needs to be evaluated. When I leave my cell phone I've made the comment "what am I going to do?" Haven't said that about my Bible and I say it is the most important thing in life...hmmm. Regardless if I have your Bible app, I think the priority of importance it plays is the message I take from this. Very good!!!
Dec 28, 2011 11:23 AM Guest Brian D  says:

This is happening as we speak and God is certainly in it. You can receive the Bible multiple times each through email, through a text message and through a scheduled call with Tandem by Back to the Bible. Just go to https://isi.gotandem.com/  The Scripture coming to you multiple times each and every day. Don't miss this!
Dec 28, 2011 10:43 AM Guest Sandra  says in response to Beatrice:
Try relaying on that cell phone to get you through the emergency. Sorry the iPhone doesn't have that much power....
Dec 28, 2011 10:44 AM Guest Nancy  says in response to Martha:
Thanks for listing those sites.
Dec 28, 2011 11:14 AM Guest Khadubb  says:
its easy to get caught up in the things of this world. I do not see where the IPhone is bad. The bigger picture is your relationship with Christ. I do get the article and am convicted. If the reader is convicted seek and pray for Gods wisdom and grace concerning this.
Dec 28, 2011 11:52 AM Guest Jack R Jr  says:
My question is why can't you have both?  Go to www.youversion.com and download a bible on your cell phone!  They have diffreent reading programs and etc for reading the bible thru in one year or less and etc. Best of all it doesn't cost you anything!  Yes you can download any version that you prefer.  So you have NO excuse!  Glory Hallelu-yah
Dec 28, 2011 11:22 AM Guest Steven  says:
... I think a lot of these commenters are missing the point...
Dec 28, 2011 11:54 AM Guest John W.J.  says:

I agree with every phase!
Dec 28, 2011 11:32 AM Guest JB  says in response to Bryan:
Me too. Olive tree app. Awesome.
Dec 28, 2011 11:50 AM Guest Dino  says in response to Grammy B.:

Thank you, GrammyB.

Your point "Carrying an unopened Bible has no value" is what the writer of this piece, I believe, intended.

Many people missed the point here... I understand. I, too, have the Bible on my phone.. but how often do we really open it.
Dec 28, 2011 11:59 AM Guest kevin j  says:

Maybe the question is all wrong.

The question is:

Do you have the Bible loaded on your cell phone?

 

Maybe the effort needs to be put into Bible Apps, so that every time you power up Scripture comes up.

Add in daily reminders i.e. Scripture, and voila, your cell phone now puts the Bible in your life more than carrying a Bible around does.

 

Kevin
Dec 28, 2011 11:53 AM Guest Cecelia  says:
If I looked for Christ like I do my cell phone I would speak to Him quite a bit more during the day. He would be ever present in my "sight" as well as spiritually. a fairly good analogy., The world does seem to get in the way though.
Dec 28, 2011 12:00 PM Guest Donna  says:

It's a wonderful idea and as Bryan indicated - I love the idea of the Bible accessible via your cell phone - so we can take it with us as readily and access it.  I would love an app that would let you highlight and send or post a verse that God used to speak to you.
Dec 28, 2011 12:19 PM Guest Ray K.  says in response to Beatrice:
I don't know about this one.......I only remember the times that I tried similar messaging, only to be disappointed when I received no response at all, or the unit's power source (like its battery, for example) went dead; never heard of a Bible going dead.
Dec 28, 2011 12:25 PM Guest abcmom  says:
It amazes me how many missed the point. It's not a literal give up your cell phone for your bible or do you have a bible app on your phone. It's metaphorical. We use our cell phones constantly for everything. We make sure we have them wherever we go. Cell phones tend to be extremely improtant to most people. We don't treat the Bible like we treat our cell phones. If we did we would have more of God's joy and peace in our lives just to name a few. I thought this message was obvious but noticed by quite a few comments it missed the point for some. You can also replace cell phone with whatever else is most improtant to you in life. If you treated your bible as your most important tool in life your life would work so much better. With Christ at the center instead of anything else your life can be used to glorify Him. Isn't that one of the main reasons God has us here, to glorify Him and share the gospel. If we don't know the gospel how do we share it? I hope more folks will get the point.
Dec 28, 2011 12:31 PM Guest cynthia  says in response to Beatrice:
Beatrice, you missed the point!
Dec 28, 2011 12:51 PM Guest Tere  says in response to Beatrice:
Rethink what you're saying.  If you really did need an ambulance, your iphone would be the last thing to depend on, I think you would be calling someone up above!
Dec 28, 2011 12:57 PM Guest Carol R.  says:
Hmmmm.   I need a Bible app. for my new Kindle.  Anyone got a suggestion about a good one that is not too expensive?
Dec 28, 2011 1:08 PM Guest Richard  says:
So I simply put the NIV version (and several other versions along with MHC) on my iPhone and it becomes a moot point.  I now carry and refer to my bible on a regular basis.  The bible study leader says,"show me your bibles" and I hold up my iPhone.  It's faster, more convenient and fits in my pocket.  Things are as they should be: I take my bible everywhere I go. Before I had to rely on memorization and I'm getting really terrible at that.  Things I memorized in BMA as a kid I can barely remember now without help. But with lookup and indexing my iPhone is like a brain expansion. Reminds me of when I got my first scientific calculator at engineering school. It beat out the sliderule quite easily and expanded my thinking capabilities the way a shovel improves digging a ditch.
Dec 28, 2011 1:24 PM Guest Mags  says in response to Beatrice:

I am sorry, I only read down a few and already see how many of you are taking this out of context!  It's not that you'd replace your iphone with the Bible - you can't make calls on it or use it like a calendar - we all know that for heaven's sake!

It's also NOT saying there's anything wrong with having your mobile device with you, so you can't go there either.

It's SIMPLE, more simple than you're making it out to be - we all use our phones (regular cell or iphone or ipad) and rely on them so much; we don't leave home without them and depend on them to "feed" us the info we crave every day (every minute?).  BUT how many of us even open our Bibles every day? it's simply calling to attention where our daily "food" comes from and how it is probably not your Bible ... or mine.  If we lived in such a way as to crave our spiritual food every day, the way we need to have our phones on and within reach every day, we would live in a different world.  so, no, don't try calling with your Bible or using it as an alarm clock or calendar or camera or ....

Just think about what it is you DON'T use your Bible for.... reading and feeding your soul - some of us don't even take the time to connect with God regularly, but we sure need our human connections via our phones close at hand.

The rest of you are looking for the loop holes and saying this isn't the best example or suggesting that this says the Bible could replace your phone.... you're all just feeling the guilt you should probably own.  See it for the simple reminder it is, and thank God you have the days left in life to do something about getting back to His word and move on.
Dec 28, 2011 1:44 PM Guest Sarah  says in response to Beatrice:
Well, you're certainly geting all the flak for this comment. For the record, I laughed a little
Dec 28, 2011 1:46 PM fitzpatrickk fitzpatrickk    says:
Jim, great article-- you missed one more point: the Bible never gets drained of its power (Heb 4:12)
Dec 28, 2011 2:50 PM Guest Russ  says:
I'm very grateful for the Holy Bible.  And the Bible tells me about a companion and resource much greater than an iPhone - and handier in emergencies than even the Bible: The Holy Spirit!  He leads me into all truth, reveals Jesus, and gives me wisdom and strength for the specifics of my own life.  And He is always with me - never left behind (although I do sometimes forget that He is with me).  The Bible is not a person.   The Bible represents the Trinity to us.  God's words in the Bible help us stay on track.  But relating to the Bible is not nearly as fulfilling as relating to God.  For example: You could create a database with everything about my wife - history, accomplishments, DNA, everything she ever said - but it could not take the place of Susan in my life....
Dec 28, 2011 3:58 PM Guest John A. R.  says:

This is a great question.  My wife and I have a fixed 700 minutes a month combined cell phone amount.  We rarely get close to using all the minutes.  I will say that this  year (2011)   I read through two different bibles completely.  One was a chronological format.  I plan to read through another bible in 2012,  and it is now my goal to read through all the bibles that I own as time goen on.

 

Thank you for this thought provoking question.

Dec 28, 2011 4:39 PM Guest Mary M.  says in response to Grant J.:
AMEN!  This article is talking about PRIORITIES, not that the Bible could be an electronic device!
Dec 28, 2011 5:28 PM Guest Peter K.  says in response to Beatrice:

This response to your practical outlook, Beatrice, which I must admit has some merit...

 

But look at this from another angle.  Adherence to biblical principles can keep one from getting into many 911 situations.
Dec 28, 2011 6:07 PM Guest KCkc  says:
accordancebible.com has a great free demo with ASV, ESV, NASB plus Greek & Hebrew lookup, maps & more.  I use it to check on Greek/Hebrew vocab/meaning whenever I listen on a sermon and it's effective in keeping speakers on their toes when they start "quoting or deciphering" the word in Greek or Hebrew "for you" = D
Dec 28, 2011 6:21 PM Guest Trap/LA  says:
the list I have has a coouple of additionla items:
*  Ever wonder what would happen if we
*  treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?
* 
*  What if we:
*      carried it around in our purses or pockets,
*          and had it with us at all times?
*      flipped through it several time a day?
*      turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
*      used it to receive messages from the text?
*      used it to share messages from the text with others?
*      discussed various aspects of it with people?
*      tried to learn more about it and it's applications?
*      treated it like we couldn't live without it?
*      gave it to Kids as gifts?
*      used it when we traveled?
*      used it in case of emergency?
*
*  Stop and think: “Where are my priorities?”
*  By the way...where is your Bible?
Dec 28, 2011 6:17 PM Guest kimberlee  says:
When I first heard this, I was convicted and picked up a Bible that fits in my purse. Even though I have an iPhone. ;)
Dec 28, 2011 6:52 PM Guest Jamie J.  says in response to Beatrice:

Once, there was a terrible flood and a lady called 911 on her cell phone and was told "Help is on the way."

 

A few minutes later, a neighbor walked by pulling a wagon full of some valuables and offered to leave some of his belongings to make room for her and help her to higher ground.  She thanked her neighbor and told him help was on the way.

 

As the water rose another neighbor in a 4x4 came by and offered her a lift.  She politely declined, saying no thanks, I called 911 and they're sending help.

 

The water continued to rise and, in fact had risen to completely flood the first story of the woman's home when a neighbor in a boat approached.  She told him she was sure that the authorities were sending help and that she'd be okay.  Despite his protests, she sent him on his way.

 

Predictably, the woman died.  When she got to heaven, she met God and asked him how He could let her die such a tragic death.  God explained to her, I sent you a wagon, a truck and a boat - what more did you want?
Dec 28, 2011 6:55 PM Guest Caitlin  says:

My friend sent it to me a few months ago, and now I see that's it's been passed on down.

I love the point!!! And, so true!!!
Dec 28, 2011 6:55 PM Guest Scott W.  says:

My Bible is (in) my phone. I also have a huge  series of Biblical commentaries in/On my phone. It is incredibly beneficial to have both- on trips, in airports, in discussions with others. I suppose some would say we would be spiritually better equipped if we did not have this electronic tether complicating our lives. But that is like wishing there was no TV. It is your choosing whether you use TV for good or bad. Personally I think the automobile, the jet aircraft, and the cellphone with a kindle app are among the twenty first centuries gifts, so that we may evolve if used properly. It should not be ridiculed or put down.
Dec 28, 2011 7:28 PM Guest Barbara  says in response to Beatrice:
Are you implying you don't need a Bible?  You are missing the point.  If you die before the ambulance gets to you, you'll wish you read more of your Bible.  Cell phones can drop your call when you need it most.
Dec 28, 2011 8:01 PM Guest Irene  says:
If I treated my Bible like my cell phone I would be in trouble.  I keep my cell phone in my glove compartment in my car to use for an emergency.  I keep my Bible by my bed and read it every night.
Dec 28, 2011 8:02 PM Guest Nina  says:

You might not be able to call 911 but you can call on God to send someone to help you.

Hopefully, you would have both a bible and a cell phone.
Dec 28, 2011 8:59 PM Guest Rob  says in response to Beatrice:
True story! In October, I fell into an 8 foot hole, with my body dangling, up to my shoulder with my humerous fractured and the only means of keeping me from falling completely onto cement. My right leg was hyper extended against my chest. My cell phone was in my car and I cried out to anyone in the building for help. When exhausted from giving blood an hour earlier, and no one replying to my cries, I called out to God while on the verge of fainting, and by His grace, somehow He managed to get 200 lbs out of the jam I was in and to my phone so that I could call for help. Although helpful, not every emergency can be handled by cell phones, ie. just try using them in an earthquake. I have and my phone didn't work. But just like Peter in the storm, Jesus saves! Matt. 14:30-31 Grace to all!
Dec 28, 2011 9:19 PM Guest Sally  says in response to Beatrice:

Beatrice,

I will tell you that the bible was my 911, it arrived on time and sooner than any ambulance could've ever arrived; the words on the pages saved my life from the depths of eternal hell.  You see Beatrice, now and only now can i feel comfortable knowing that in a physical/ medical emergency, i could care less if an ambulance arrives, for i know where my soul will go because when i was in a real emergency, the pages of my bible directed me to the true Savior, Jesus Christ.

Dec 28, 2011 9:30 PM Guest Keith  says in response to Beatrice:
I would rather have my Bible becasue if i am a born again believer i know where i am going. a iPhone is good, but if my time is up, my time is up and no matter if there is an ambulance there or not. haven't you ever heard how important your Bible is and what it stands for...Basic. Instructions. Before. Leaving. Earth.: BIBLE
Dec 28, 2011 10:25 PM Guest Dave  says:
Sad. . . It seems many people here are missing the point & trying to justify their technology!  When was the last time you tried to highlite a verse on your smartphone?  Or, make a note in the margin referring to another verse or idea?  I too have an iphone and love to look up multiple verses at once during a sermon.  But, I can never replace the notes I can take in my paper version of God's word.  That is a tool I can look back to for strength and encouragement.  Truth be told, I too need to work harder in this area as well!
Dec 28, 2011 10:46 PM Guest Tami  says:

Great point!  Thanks for sharing and making us think.
Dec 29, 2011 12:11 AM Guest jj  says:
Instead of dwelling on the negative, I believe a gentle push for a 'scripture a day' text to the phone for kids would go so much farther. So often something happens that relates to a verse I just heard and that would have a larger impact on a child than any 'preaching' could hope to have.
Dec 29, 2011 6:16 AM Guest Ian C.  says in response to Bryan:

Haha, yeah, my Bible is also my cell phone... it's been years since I carried a paper Bible around. Having several Bibles in my cell phone means that I always have God's word handy no matter where I am.

 

I find that almost all my non-work reading is now on my cell phone... someone gave me a book I wanted to read a few months ago, but because it's on paper, it's still sitting on my night stand, waiting to be read, while I have read several books already in the intervening time on my cell phone!
Dec 29, 2011 6:19 AM Guest Angela  says in response to Janet:
Good point on Moses with a cell phone! lol. Calling 911 in that emergency wouldn't have helped. If the only reason you do not own a cell phone is because you don't want to be available 24/7, that's not reasonable. We turn our cell phones off when we want down time, and ignore the house phone. And we have real lives, as you put it. We communicate with each other face to face, as well as with our friends. It's not any different than using your house phone. Or do you not have one of those either? :-) lol.
Dec 29, 2011 6:36 AM Guest Linda  says in response to Beatrice:
Try calling on God believing in prayer, and you want need an ambulance!
Dec 29, 2011 7:28 AM Guest LeeL  says:
My iPhone is my Bible. In some ways it is a great companion to my printed version because of the vast amount of versions that are available and the Key Word search on it. I get the point here, but it is a bit of a stretch like comparing apples to oranges. God's word comes in all different kinds of forms, including the Bible. The Bible is a static resource until used and requires a relationship. The iPhone is an interactive form of technology that doesn't require a heart connection, but a service provider. It can be lost and life is not lost.
Dec 29, 2011 9:28 AM Guest Lucille  says in response to Jamie J.:

Thank you for the post, Mr. Daly.  My priority is the word of God and people.  But I must confess that I haven't been spending as much time reading as I should.  The busyness of the day is the culprit.  Actually we must as Christians redeem the time.  Buy it back, so to speak.

 

Your example, Jamie, is the opposite of the Good Samaritan story. "... A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell among the thieves, ... and by chance there came down a certain priest that way and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side...and likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side...but a certain Samaritan as he journeyed came where he was and when he saw him, he had compassion on him."

Dec 29, 2011 11:14 AM Guest Cynthia  says in response to Beatrice:
Hi, Beatrice.  Of course, no one is saying NOT to use your cell phone.   There are probably no perfect analogies, but if this one prompts us to think about how much we need God and His word compared with how much we "need" & use our cell phones, then it's served a great purpose. And for "spiritual emergencies", wouldn't an ambulance be of little use? 
Dec 29, 2011 12:01 PM Guest Kevin J  says in response to Grant J.:
Well said!  Exactly!  You are getting wiser as you are getting older!
Dec 29, 2011 12:23 PM Guest Judy  says:

I think all those making comments about the Bible/iPhone comparison not being exact and that they can't use a Bible like they use a cell phone, are totally missing the point.  It seems to me that we say we have no time to read the Bible, it doesn't apply to my life, etc.  But if we spent the time we spend texting inconsequencial messages or consulted God with same urgency we answer our cell phones or place importance on the Bible like we do other things in our life, we might be more likely to experience the power of the Holy Spirit. I believe the Lord works mostly in the lives of those who are really listening to Him (including reading the Bible).  But most will never experience God's "app" since they never take the time to download it."

Dec 29, 2011 12:38 PM Guest Janet  says in response to Angela:
Good for you.  You are one of the few that actually has a real life with a cell phone.  I see people use those things like a crutch and have no clue how to talk.  Most people are addicted to them never communicating face to face with people so it's good to hear you use the cell phone properly.  :o)  They cost too much and we like our lives like they are.
Dec 29, 2011 12:59 PM Guest Clara  says:
I have a iPhone. I am hesitated to treat my Bible as my iPhone. Yes, iPhone is something we carry around and use everyday. But Bible(God’s Words) should be in our hearts. That is why churches have always encouraged Christians to memorize bible verses, meditate God’s Words day and night. Hope we don't stop memorizing bible and only count on the e-bible on our iPhone.
Dec 29, 2011 2:13 PM Guest Summer T  says:
People, the point is not to have the text/Bible accessible all the time (via app etc), the POINT was to TREAT the scriptures as we would our dependence on technology/phone...it's a MIND set and a HEART thing. Not a mere Bible app.
Dec 29, 2011 2:33 PM Guest Ana  says in response to Joe:
Amen!
Dec 30, 2011 8:12 AM Guest Diane  says:
Wow, Jim, great thoughts.  But I must've missed the part where you said we should never use Smart Phones or that the Bible replaces the functionality of a Smart Phone.  Obviously, they missed the point.  Too bad cause it's a good one.
Dec 30, 2011 9:23 AM Guest Tony  says:

Can I be honest?  The idea of handing my child a Bible makes me cringe.  The sheer amount of murder, genocide, racial cleansing, sexuality, etc in the Bible makes it completely inappropriate to give to an unsupervised child.  So, the comparison between an iPhone and a Bible -- at least as a child's gift -- is something that I cannot relate to.

 

If you wouldn't leave any other adult-book lying on your coffee-table for your children to look through.....I'm not sure the Bible should be treated any differently.
Dec 30, 2011 10:05 AM Guest monica  says in response to Bryan:
I have My Bible on my phone as well and I use it often. I also have a few hard copies (different versions)
Dec 30, 2011 1:26 PM Guest Diana W  says in response to Beatrice:
The Bible tells you how to believe God for healing .... then you won't  NEED the ambulance.   =D
Dec 30, 2011 1:35 PM Guest Jennifer  says:

Jim didn't say leave your cell phone behind!  He said what if the bible was just as important in our lives as our cell phone?!?!  How could that change our lives and the world?  More wisdom, less worry, more teachable moments wih our kids...he wants you to imagine he possibilities of your life centered on Christ instead of your email and other cell phone aps. 

 

I get it Jim!  Thank you!
Dec 30, 2011 4:33 PM Guest John S  says in response to igetit:
igetit, well said
Dec 30, 2011 7:19 PM Guest Bill  says:
So much work has gone into the writing of the Bible by God's own hands and yet He gives it to us to hold and handle with sin guilt hands to learn how to live, really live with eternal life and purpose. Thanks for the reminder.
Dec 30, 2011 10:07 PM Guest Robin  says:

Jim,

 

I don't think they got it.
Dec 31, 2011 12:52 PM Guest Vicki  says in response to Beatrice:

Dear Beatrice,

     I don't think that Mr. Daly was expecting someone to NOT call 911 in an emergency.   I think he was saying that ,  "What if during a crisis we reached for our Bibles to seek out the Lord in time of need?"   I think it is obvious we call 911 in an emergency---that goes without saying.
Jan 3, 2012 6:31 AM Guest Andrea  says:

I often wonder as I check my facebook first thing in the morning and it asks me the question "what's on your mind"?, that Jesus is asking the same thing and I go to facebook first ... if I went to Him first and answered that question and he shared with me that same thing, how would my status update change?

It's great.. he wants to use your iphone too... :-)
Jan 2, 2012 10:55 AM Guest Jo  says in response to Tracy:
I agree,convicting ,Some seem to miss the point. Why so defensive if we're not guilty?
Jan 2, 2012 12:55 PM Guest Cameron  says in response to Tracy:
I agree with Tracy 100%! The point was well taken. Too often we value our cell phones more than our Bible.
Jan 3, 2012 6:29 AM Guest tara  says in response to Beatrice:
has there ever been an emergency in which you did not call on His name?  I understand your point, however, I would have to say the Great Physician should be called on before any earthly doctor/ambulance service!!
Jan 2, 2012 7:28 PM Guest Donna  says in response to Beatrice:
You missed the point.
Jan 3, 2012 12:22 PM Guest jennifer  says in response to Beatrice:

Take it from someone who has survived an abusive marriage/divorce. GOD was my survival! The police and the ambulance were an insignificant back-up, at best. And w/ an ex-husband eligible for parole, GOD is still my security. The judicial system could care less!

 

I'll carry GOD's word in my heart, you can keep your i-phone!
Jan 4, 2012 11:18 AM Guest Tom D  says in response to Tracy:
Yes, many seem to miss the point.  The point is a person's dependence on the cell phone or iphone or other such devices, and our dependence on the Word of God, which is evident by our actions.  Do we know where our Bible is all the time?  Do we know where our iphone is all the time?  Would we stop and turn around to get our phone if we were a few blocks from home?  Would we do the same for our Bible?
Jan 10, 2012 7:54 PM Guest Joan  says in response to Tracy:
I would have to agree with Tracy.  She's right, yall are taking it too literally.  We can have our iphones and all, but we need to remember to rely on God in our spiritual walk and everyday life.  If we turned to God as much as we do with our iphones, our perspective in life would be spiritually changed and have a closer relationship with him.
Jan 12, 2012 6:22 AM Guest Rob M  says:

I have the NIV bible on my iphone !! Always with me. The problem is to use it when you've got it.
Jan 12, 2012 9:54 AM Guest Keith I M.  says:

In the past I would always be looking for my Bible.  Where did I use it last?,  By the bed, sofa, dining table, in the car.  Where?

Now I read the bible first thing in the morning, but on the computer.  When I went to a Father/Son retreat my bible was really lost.  Took me a long time to find where I last put it.  (Seems like Sunday to Sunday some weeks is an eternity)  I realized with the new technology the physical bible may get misplaced.  I do not have a smart phone, but our daughter does,  She has a bible on her phone.  As well as her computer for times when she is not on the net. I noticed her bible is in her car but she did not bring it in over christmas break.

I always have my bible with me, now it is taken on a new "look".
Jan 20, 2012 5:57 PM Guest nicki  says in response to Beatrice:
This isn't telling you not to carry your iPhone.  Just to think about treating your Bible like you treat your iPhone.

Actions

Popular Blog Posts