Check Engine Soon

I have a 1998 Ford Windstar, and my "check engine soon" light has been on for a couple of years. Yes, I said "years." I had it checked out when it first came on and the mechanics hooked up a little computer to the van and ran diagnostics. They told me it was a valve which controls the oxygen richness mixing with the fuel. They said I would get better gas mileage if I got it fixed...and at some point my van would just start dying on me. Well, now it's dying more and more often. Sometimes in traffic, which is not a good thing.

Isn't it interesting how we can let problems slide for long periods of time, especially when we think we know what they are and "it's really not that bad"? The problem with my "check engine soon" light is that there are OTHER problems which could turn on that light. If it's always on, how will I know when another problem surfaces? It also does not tell me the SEVERITY of the problem. As it gets worse, the light is just as bright as always. I've gotten used to seeing the warning light, and it doesn't bother me any more.

We get used to warning signals in our spiritual lives, too.

We stop reading our Bibles for extended periods of time. We realize from time to time that our Bible knowledge is slipping (if you don't use it, you lose it). We are not as able to discuss spiritual matters with our brethren, let alone with our co-workers, neighbors, and friends. But after a few years of that, we think, "it's really not that bad - I've been going like this for a while, and I still seem to be okay." Remember 2 Timothy 2:15: "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth."

We stop praying for extended periods of time. We are not as close or connect to our God, the giver of life, the sustainer of our spirits. It starts affecting our relationships with our family and friends. We become more anxious about life. And after a few years of it, we still thing, "it's really not that bad - I pray enough to get by." Remember Philippians 4:6: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."

We stop meeting with the saints for extended periods of time. At first, it's "just Wednesdays." Then it's "just Sunday nights" because, after all, God didn't command us to come together twice on Sundays, right? After a while we miss Sunday's entirely from time to time. Our brethren are concerned, and they call us to say they missed us. We start getting mad because they are so pushy. After all, "it's not really that bad - Christianity is between me and my God, and I can worship Him from my couch at home just as easily as with the brethren." Remember Hebrews 10:24-25: "Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near."

We need to "check our engines" regularly.

God bless,
Nathan