StainedGlassRebel

Hey y’all! I want to talk about an issue that’s becoming increasingly important in our digital world, especially as we seek to create and foster digital faith communities: how to balance the use of technology without being enslaved by it.

As Christians, we know the importance of using our time and resources wisely, and that includes our technology. But with so many devices and platforms vying for our attention, it can be a real challenge to stay in control. So, how can we use technology to serve our needs and purposes, without letting it control us?

It’s a tall order, but one I think we can undertake. Here are some tips to help you find that balance that will help keep you from becoming the robot:

• Set boundaries: Just like we have boundaries in our relationships and in how we use our time and money, we also need to set boundaries with technology. Decide when you’re going to check your phone, how long you’ll spend on social media, and when you’ll power down for the night. Rather than staring at you screen until you pass out, try some mild yoga or reading a physical book. It really can change the way your brain operates. Stick to those boundaries and be intentional about using technology in a way that serves you, not the other way around.
• Practice mindfulness: When you’re using technology, be fully present in the moment. Don’t multitask, and try to avoid distractions. This is especially important when around communicating with others. The worst thing I can do it look at my phone while talking to my wife. The moment I do, I am tuned out of the conversation. So, be mindful of your attention. This will help you to be more focused and efficient with your time, and will also help you to stay more in control of your technology use.
• Take breaks: It’s important to take breaks from technology regularly, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Get outside, spend time with loved ones, or engage in a hobby that doesn’t involve screens. This will help you to recharge and to stay connected with the world around you. If you can swing it, take a full day or two to fully disconnect with technology every few months to reconnect with physical around you.
• Find balance in other areas of life: In order to balance your technology use, it’s important to find balance in other areas of life as well. Spend time in prayer and reflection, exercise regularly, and connect with others face-to-face. This will help you to feel more grounded and in control of your life, even as you use technology. I find that when my exercise habits are balanced, my technology use is actually more efficient and productive. When one area of our life is in shambles, it impacts the rest.
• Stay connected to your faith: Finally, it’s important to stay connected to your faith or spirituality, even as you use technology. Read your Bible, attend church physically or digitally, and engage in other spiritual practices that help you to stay focused on God’s presence and guidance in your life. Technology should enhance our spirituality not eliminate it.

I hope these tips help you to find balance in your technology use, and that you can use technology in a way that serves you and helps you to live out your faith. Remember, we’re not called to be enslaved by technology, but to use it as a tool to serve God and others. So, let’s use it wisely, y’all! Go be Jesus to someone!