We are in a digital world, where almost everything is done with a phone and/or computer. Using social media, watching videos, chatting with friends, and spending a lot of time online. Technology is a wonderful gift as it helps us to learn, communicate with others and connect. But, I have also discovered that when I am not careful the virtual world can slowly distract my attention from God. That's why developing spiritually is something I have to do daily.
The Lord's Prayer tells me in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness, and all these things shall be given you.” This verse reminds me that I need to always put God first in my life. I should pray, read my Bible, and listen to God's voice, before taking the time to scroll through my phone. If I just listen to what comes out of a computer, my relationship with God can't get deeper.
I can recall a time when I was spending a lot of hours watching videos and social media. Initially I believed it was harmless, but I saw that I was not praying as much or reading the Bible as much. Even with all the activity on the internet my heart felt empty. So one day I decided to put my phone away and spend this time reading the Scriptures and praying. I felt tranquility come back into my heart right away. From that experience, I learned that there was nothing that could take the place of the joy of God's presence in the digital world.
Another verse of the Bible that encourages me is Romans 12:2 "Do not be conformed to the context of this world, but be transformed through the renewal of your mind. There are many things on the internet that can affect my thinking, speaking and doing. Therefore, I have to be mindful of what I view, read and listen to. I want my mind to be filled with God's truth and not things that pull me away.
I don't have to eschew technology in order to grow spiritually in a digital world. Rather, there is a need to use it wisely. I can listen to a sermon, read a bible message, sing gospel songs with others, and cheer with positive words to others. Technology should support the my faith, and not diminish it.
So I feel like it is possible to grow spiritually in the Digital world by putting God first. It can be difficult at times due to all the distractions, but I am able to stay faithful with God's help! Psalm 119:105, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I pray that my heart will be seeking God above all things and my life will be living out His love, even in today's digital age.
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