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

What Habits Do You Want to Change?

Do you ever find yourself doomscrolling? You know, swiping through social media or news headlines, trying to find something to make you feel better or give you another dopamine rush? Or maybe you’ve noticed yourself stuck binge-watching TV—when in the back of your mind, you know you’d be better off using the time to connect with others.

These are just a couple of the ways we can sometimes feel mastered by the technology in our lives. Most of us can relate to this feeling in one way or another. But it’s not a reason for shame—instead, think of it as an opportunity. It’s a chance to acknowledge the challenges we’re facing, figure out what we want to change, and choose a better way forward.

The Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians:

“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything.
1 Corinthians 6:12 NIV

As Christians, can we do anything? Paul seemed to say so, but there are a couple of important caveats in there. We can do anything … but not everything is beneficial. We can do anything … but we don’t want to be mastered by anything. And “anything” extends to our use of technology.

So when we consider our technology habits, we have to be aware of how it impacts our heart, mind, body, and soul. As we touched on in Day 1, we were created to live in connection with God and others,and technology works best when it enables those kinds of connections.

Awareness is where it starts if we want to work toward undoing some of our tech habits that lead to isolation. That’s why we’re wise to keep an eye on our screen time report and set healthy boundaries.

Take a few minutes to identify some of the personal tech-related challenges you’re facing—not to feel guilty, but to gain awareness.

Journal and Reflect

• How has technology negatively impacted you or your relationships?
• What’s one unhelpful technology habit you’re already thinking you’d like to stop or pause?
• What are some activities, spiritual practices, or hobbies you could try—or return to—in place of the habit you want to change?

Pray

Lord, please give me guidance and discernment on the habits I need to reevaluate and change—or even stop. Please help me to replace negative habits with positive habits that will help me grow closer to You. Thank You for Your patience, love, and forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, amen.