Duct Tape Solutions

Like a lot of men, I have a large variety of tools. Some are very specialized (computer power supply tester, multi-meter). Many are pretty general (screwdrivers, box-end wrenches).

One tool is use frequently is very general but super useful. It can…

·         Temporarily fix small leaks

·         Put my daughter’s broken headlight lens back together

·         Hold down cords on stage so we don’t trip

·         Be “art” (A guy in our church even uses it to make flowers, wallets, and other things)

Of course I am talking about duct tape!

The problem for us is that we sometimes use duct tape solutions to solve spiritual issues in our lives. Most often this happens in relationships, both with other people and with the Lord. We even have a euphemism for when we try to repair a falling-out with someone; we say we are going to go "patch things up." But inevitably a patch is just that, it is not a permanent solution, just a temporary one!

In order to enjoy true relationships and true restoration when relationships are damaged, we need to be willing to do the real soul and relational work. This kind of work is often difficult, and sometimes painful, and so we just go for the “duct tape.”

For example, we rush through a quick Bible reading and short prayer time, and never spend deep quality soul time with the Lord. Then when we get struck with really deep struggles in this life, we don’t have the relationship with the Lord we really need to help us go through those times with joy and deep faith.

We do this with our spouses or kids or coworkers when they seek our attention and we just give a short nod of the head, or an "OK honey.” But what we really need is to spend focused time on that relationship, not just duct tape it in the short term.

I always find it sadly amusing when I get a couple in for counseling, and one person in the relationship says, "I had no idea we had this problem." It’s because you were not spending the time. You were just trying to duct tape things and now the duct tape has fallen off exposing a festering wound in the relationship!

The Bible repeatedly tells us things like "Love God with all our heart, mind, soul, strength." "Seek first the kingdom of God." "Delight yourself in the Lord." "Be still and know that I am God." Yet we so easily get distracted from these very basic things.

Let's stick to using duct tape for fixing things like a cracked headlight lens or making flowers, and let's all be willing to do the real work of digging in deep with the Lord and with other people.