Jesus says, “This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one He has sent.”
John 6:29,
If you have spent any time on social media, you will probably come across videos called “Life Hacks.” So-called “influencers” have gone out of their way to create videos showing us shortcuts or alternate ways to perform day-to-day activities. The scope of subjects is incredible, covering topics ranging from make-up tips, to surviving a grenade explosion. It makes sense for these videos to be popular in 2023 as we live in a fast-paced, fast-food culture that encourages us to find ways to do things quicker and easier.
Some of these life hacks appear practical, especially the ones presented by those individuals who perform these tasks day in and day out. Tradespeople, chefs, and even mothers share tips based on their experiences. Judging by the number of views the hack videos receive, our culture is fascinated with shortcuts. Why is this? Is it because we have become lazy? Is it a desire to use the saved time to spend on some endeavour they deem more important? Is it because we long to find meaning in our lives?
Many hacks are utterly foolish, and some are even dangerous, especially one discussing medical issues such as mental health. It seems both young and old are becoming more anxious and worried about life. Hopelessness and depression permeate our communities, and people seek quick fixes or shortcuts to a more satisfying life. People pursue wealth and fame as glorified on social media or partake in addictive practices to experience a worthwhile life. Often, in many cases, these shortcuts result in a hurried spiral into darkness.
Jesus stated in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Jesus offers us the way to a meaningful life, unlike the thief (the world) that encourages us to seek fulfilment by our means relying on practices that take us away from the image we were created to be. Jesus offers the ultimate life hack, which includes a divine helper, to help us know joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control that not only occurs in our lifetime but extends into eternity.
How does He suggest we obtain this gift? Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”. He is saying there are no shortcuts. There is nothing we can do, change, or practice to obtain this gift but accept God gives it as He wills. In John 6:29, Jesus says, “This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one He has sent.” That is, believe in Jesus and seek to understand His truth in His teaching in the Gospels.
This act of faith will introduce us to the most significant life hack that will bring life and fullness to all your tomorrows. God desire to give all who believes the greatest and only life hack necessary to live as He desired us to live.