If you could un-invent something, what would it be?
In a world shaped by countless inventions, many of which have brought incredible benefits, it’s thought-provoking to consider: If you could un-invent something, what would it be? For Christians, this question invites deep reflection, not only on the physical but also the spiritual impact of certain innovations. While some inventions have undeniably improved life, others have caused harm, distractions, or even led humanity further away from God.
The Power of Invention and Its Misuse
The Bible tells us that God created us in His image (Genesis 1:27), endowing us with creativity and the ability to invent. When used for good, these gifts glorify God. However, when misused, they can become tools of destruction or idolatry. Ecclesiastes 7:29 (KJV) warns us:
“Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions.”
Here, Solomon laments how humanity has used its ingenuity to create things that lead to sin and sorrow.
What Would You Un-Invent?
If we could un-invent something, perhaps we might consider undoing inventions that propagate sin or separate us from God’s presence. For example:
1. Weapons of Mass Destruction
These inventions have led to untold suffering and loss of life. James 4:1-2 (KJV) speaks to the root of such conflicts:
“From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.”
The destruction caused by these weapons reminds us of the value of peace and the need for humanity to seek reconciliation with God.
2. The Internet (in its negative aspects)
While the internet has been a powerful tool for spreading the Gospel, it has also become a source of distractions, immorality, and misinformation. Matthew 6:22-23 (KJV) reminds us to guard what we allow into our lives:
“The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness.”
The internet, when misused, can darken our hearts and minds, drawing us away from God’s truth.
3. Devices That Promote Idleness
Technology meant to make life easier sometimes encourages laziness and spiritual complacency. Proverbs 6:6-11 (KJV) exhorts us:
“Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.”
A life filled with idle pursuits leads to spiritual stagnation and neglect of God’s work.
The Root Problem: Sin
Ultimately, the true issue isn’t the invention itself, but the sin in human hearts that misuses what God has allowed us to create. Romans 1:28-30 (KJV) describes the consequences of turning away from God:
“And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers.”
Un-Inventing Sinful Desires
If there’s anything we should desire to “un-invent,” it is the sin that corrupts humanity and separates us from God. Praise be to Jesus Christ, who came to undo the works of the devil! 1 John 3:8 (KJV) declares:
“For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.”
Through His death and resurrection, Jesus made a way for us to be free from the power of sin. While we cannot un-invent sin itself, we can accept Christ’s victory over it and live as new creations in Him (2 Corinthians 5:17, KJV).
A Call to Action
As Christians, we are called to redeem the time (Ephesians 5:16) and use every tool, invention, and opportunity for God’s glory. Instead of focusing on undoing the past, let us commit to using what we have wisely, promoting love, peace, and truth in a world that desperately needs it.
Let this reflection challenge us to evaluate how we use the inventions around us. Are we using them for God’s purposes, or are they drawing us further from Him? Remember, all things are permissible, but not all things are beneficial (1 Corinthians 10:23, KJV).
May we strive to live in a way that glorifies God, using the creativity He has given us to build His kingdom and reflect His light in a dark world.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
corneliusbella 