Reset and Recenter: A Christian's Guide to Faith and Technologyಮಾದರಿ

Keep Paying Attention

The overarching theme of this Plan is how our technology habits can be adjusted and realigned to better connect with God and those around us.

But most habits aren’t lifelong practices. We engage with them for a season, and we exchange them for new habits as our lives change. So how are we supposed to know when it’s time to change a technology habit?

We need to think about the things we think about.

As you’ll see in today’s readings, the Apostle Paul knew this was true when he wrote to the believers in Philippi. Jesus shared a similar idea in Matthew 6:

“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.” Matthew 6:22 NIV

What we focus our eyes, heart, or attention on has the power to change us. If we’re filled with joy, peace, and patience, that’s a reflection of the things that have our attention. Likewise, if we’re frustrated, angry, and pessimistic, that’s a reflection of what has our attention, too.

As you continue in the adjusted habits you’ve chosen for the coming weeks and months, pay attention to the things you’re thinking about. If you’re dwelling on good things and can see ways in which you’re growing closer to God and others, then your habits are in a good place!

But if you notice yourself beginning to dwell on negative things, or see growing distance in your relationships, take a moment to ask yourself, Where’s that coming from?

The change could be totally unrelated to your relationship with technology. But because technology takes up so much of our attention, it should always be part of the conversation. Social media, text messaging, TV, movies, music, podcasts—as we spend time on these things, they impact us. We just need to pay attention to how they’re impacting us.

Journal and Reflect

• What are some positive and negative ways you’ve noticed technology influencing the way you think?

Pray

Lord, please help me to keep my mind focused on what is pure and good. Give me wisdom to continuously reevaluate my habits, make changes as needed, and recenter my attention on You. Thank You for Your love and forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, amen.