“I don’t have the bandwidth for that,” said my friend. I love talking tech — makes me look more computer literate than I am. I was beginning to worry that I was doing cultural appropriation here — being a techno-phobe, using tech language — but the Merriam-Webster online dictionary has put those fears to rest. One of its definitions of “bandwidth” defines it as “the emotional or mental capacity necessary to do or consider something.”

I can relate to that, and you probably do as well.

So, using tech talk, let’s click down on that thought. All of us have busy lives, especially those with children still at home. I won’t list all the potential obligations that are running through your head as you read this. We all recognize the need for balance in our lives, but that must be coupled with life’s priorities. What is my life priority? God spoke this verse to me as we were making a move from California to Texas a year after I retired from the Marine Corps:

“But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” —Matthew 6:33 (ESV)

“All these things” refers to the previous verses that talk about God providing for all our needs (not wants). It’s in the context of obedient service that we get our daily bread, if you will.

Back to “bandwidth.” These conversations typically take place when I talk to men about serving in some capacity. If seeking first the Kingdom is low on the priority list, then you run out of bandwidth long before you get to a place of serving, and that’s exactly what the enemy wants. Typically, the area of God’s call to service will stretch our comfort zone. He wants us to move into an area where we are reliant on His strength, His wisdom, and His guidance. It will defy our “common sense” approach to things.

“Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?” —I Corinthians 1:20

I have a John Wayne Marine Corps T-shirt. It has this written on it: “Life is tough! It’s tougher if you’re stupid!” Okay, a little harsh, but the point is there. Insert “fool” for stupid and you have God’s description of those who forsake His wisdom for their own.

I have two Scriptural promises I want to relate here. First, Paul said that “I can do all things through Him Who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). He says this in the context of the conditions he endured in his service for King Jesus. Second, he asserted that “my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). This was said regarding faithfulness. We have His promise of both strength and provision, but we need to look to the ultimate purpose for which He strengthens and provides for us. That purpose is that we might live a joy-filled life!

The Christian should be the most joyful person on the block. No one likes a whiner, and a whining Christian is a bad reflection on the Lord. In John chapter 15, Jesus’ discourse with the disciples relates the principles of being obedient and fruitful, followed by this statement in verse 11: “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” God’s desire is that we be joyful, and service is the pathway that brings this about.

So, what’s your bandwidth situation today? Feeling stretched? Maybe it’s time for a Holy Spirit-directed tech tune up on your priorities. Let Him ramp up that bandwidth so that you’re running full speed in Kingdom living. What say ye, Man of Valor?