We live in an age where our devices are almost never out of reach. They wake us up in the morning, fill the gaps in our day, and often lull us to sleep at night. “We got dust on our Bibles, brand new iPhones. No wonder why we feel this way” These lyrics by Josiah Queen hit hard. They’re uncomfortable because they’re true. Although we are more connected than ever, we often find ourselves spiritually disconnected. Our screens may be glowing, but our hearts often feel dim. We tend to reach for our phones before we reach for God’s Word.
We don’t often think of our devices as tools of discipleship, but they are. They shape what we love, what we fear, and what we desire. They flood us with endless information, but not always wisdom. Each scroll, swipe, and notification influences our habits and directs our attention. Whether we realise it or not, our devices are discipling us.
Think about how much time you spend online each week. How many hours are devoted to scrolling, swiping and streaming? Whether it’s on social media, podcasts, YouTube, news, games, or streaming shows. Now compare that with how much time you spend reading the Bible, praying, attending church, sharing your faith, enjoying time in Christian community or simply sitting quietly with God. That gap tells a story. And it’s worth listening to.
technology can be used for gospel good
Paul urges us to dwell on “whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy” (Phil. 4:8). But are we really doing that? Do we choose to scroll over silence? Do we long for followers but not faithfulness? Are we reacting rather than reflecting? Are we more comfortable with clicks over community?
We need to use digital discernment. What if you replaced morning scrolling with Scripture? What if we practised a “screen Sabbath” once a week, setting aside our devices to reset our hearts? What if we got curious about our digital habits, not just asking what we’re opening, but why?
And yet, technology can be used for gospel good. I’m amazed by how God speaks through what friends share online or what’s hidden in my algorithm. So often it’s what I need to read or listen to, whether it’s an encouraging post on Instagram, a thoughtful podcast recommendation, a text asking for my prayer requests, or a song filled with gospel truths I need reminded of.
Let me encourage you to think about what you read, watch, listen to, or share online. You can visit standrews.org.hk/resources for Bible reading plans, podcast recommendations, and more to help you grow in your love and knowledge of Jesus and follow him more faithfully.
