Glitchin'

Recently, I’ve had issues with different apps on my television devices. While in the middle of watching a show, it would stop and return to the home screen. Ironically, my cousin mentioned she and another relative have been experiencing the same issues on their televisions in their respective homes. Before sharing this with me, she decided to perform a Google search to see if she could learn more about the issue. One recommendation she read was to unplug her device, wait 30 seconds, plug it back in, and verify that everything worked properly. Since then she hasn’t had any issues. I shared with her that that is troubleshooting 101…unplugging a device or restarting it can be the solution. Through this series of events, God spoke to both of us in different ways but ultimately we arrived at the same point in this article.

Behavior can sometimes be unexplainable. So occasionally we tend to describe or explain it away with a word or phrase. When I was growing up (and maybe still today) people would use the word “trippin'” to describe how a person is acting irrationally, over the top, unreasonably, illogically, or bent out of shape over some issue. Their behavior or response to situations seemed off towards others around them. From time to time I’ve used the word to also describe random, odd, or weird behavior that seems unfitting or out of place. While thinking about how our television apps were not working properly or glitchin’, I realized it is very similar to how we describe people as trippin’.

According to dictionary.com, the word glitch can be defined as “a defect or malfunction in a machine or plan.” Like computers, televisions, and other devices, sometimes we have malfunctions that cause us to momentarily not operate as we should. At times we can identify the cause of the glitch, and other times we cannot. Computer glitches can occur for several reasons such as errors within the operating system, software defects, or issues resulting from bugs or viruses. (Wonderopolis, 2023)

Similarly, sometimes we have internal issues that can cause us to glitch. Our thought processes can be unaligned with the Word of God, our behavior can be uncharacteristic of a believer, and our speech can be straight-up pitiful. Many of our issues can be sourced from either internal or external factors. Nevertheless, some simple fixes can get us back on track. When it comes to technology, restarting the software with the issue or the machine itself are simple ways to eliminate the glitch. Likewise, WE sometimes need a restart of sorts.

Restarting can give us a fresh outlook on our lives, the situations around us, and the people we encounter. One way I can suggest restarting spiritually is to pray. Get God’s mind and view of situations. Let’s say you’re in the middle of a situation that has you glitchin’ and you need help. Going to the Father in prayer is a great way to reset, refocus and then readdress whatever you are facing. Also, reading the bible is another great way to see things the Father’s way. According to Romans 12:2, you experience a transformation when your mind is renewed. We should be doing these activities daily anyways, however, having a restart in some areas of your life can be a great solution for a glitch.

Another solution for a glitch with electronics is to unplug and plug them back into the power source. Doing this while a machine is on is a more abrupt form of restarting it, but is proven to be effective in clearing glitches. By the same token, I’ve heard people say they need to unplug. That could mean taking a break from social media, work, the hustle and bustle of life, etc. Taking time to unplug (go away) is a good solution, but while you’re unplugged make the most of that time with God. Worship Him, sit before Him, and listen to Him without everyday distractions. Jesus didn’t glitch, but the Bible does mention that He would withdraw to lonely places and pray. (Luke 5:16)

Whether you take a moment to restart or unplug to fix your glitch the bottom line is that you need to connect with God. He is the best solution for our glitches. It’s always good to be self-aware and recognize when you feel a little off, but be open and prayerful when someone else says you’re glitchin’. Why? Because your glitches can impact others, especially your family, friends, and loved ones. Restarting and unplugging are basic fixes, but they work! Take that time to reset, you need it and you’ll function a lot more efficiently when you do.

Selah

Reference:

Wonderopolis (2023, April). What Is a Computer Glitch?

Medium. https://www.wonderopolis.org/wonder/what-is-a-computer-glitch#:~:text=Computer%20glitches%20are%20often%20only%20a%20temporary%20disruption.,or%20problems%20created%20by%20computer%20bugs%20or%20viruses.