The digital provides – instincts, images and ideas – which may be “excellent” and “pleasing” to our senses, but we must listen to God before we take the “byte.”
We are overwhelmed with images, messages and ideas in the digital World. We tap, press and swipe our mobile devices, spend endless hours on social media, binge-watch shows on streaming platforms or play video games for hours. The temptations of the digital World are real. Are these fatal attractions?
While these activities may seem innocent, they can harm our well-being. Excessive use of technology has been linked to increased anxiety, depression, and decreased attention span. We are often tempted by harmless things that can harm our digital well-being.
The fatal attraction in the Garden of Delight
The Genesis account of creation is also a cautionary tale about the reality of temptation. The garden of Eden (delight) was an ideal world filled with abundance, beauty and harmony.
There was only one guideline that God had given them to follow. God told Adam and Eve not to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil in the middle of the garden. He also warned them that if they did, they would surely die.
Adam and Eve had everything that they needed. And yet, Adam and Eve were lured by the Serpent’s (per)version of Truth. Sadly, they got distracted by that which was good, pleasing and desirable.
Gen 3:6 reads: “When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.”
Interestingly, every tree in the garden was “pleasant to the sight and good for food” (Genesis 2:9). However, Eve was drawn to the tree of the knowledge of Good and Evil. The fruit looked good, and it had the promise of pleasure and knowledge. However, it was forbidden, and they knew they shouldn’t eat it.
Fatal Attractions in the Digital World
In our modern times, we face similar temptations in the digital World. Just like how Adam and Eve were tempted by something that seemed good – pleasing and- desirable, we too are often tempted by things that seem harmless but can be detrimental to our digital well-being.
Eve was distracted by that which was “good and pleasing”. However, the promise of knowledge was not God-ordered. The digital provides – instincts, images and ideas – which are excellent and pleasing, but nevertheless, we need to heed God’s Word before we take the “byte”.
The Internet is a treasure trove of “good to go” and ” visually pleasing” data. However, not all data are God-honouring and good for you. If you’re not careful, you could waste a lot of time swiping, tapping and scrolling on your mobile devices. You can become hopelessly addicted to online games, YouTube videos, or music.
Too much screen time and digital addiction can lead to social isolation, if not suicidal tendencies. Engaging with Godless instincts, images, and ideas can damage your heart, soul, mind and conscience.
You could be easily distracted from your life’s goals and purpose. Remember, your digital choices have consequences.
You are “in” the World but not “off” the World
The Internet is now a big part of our everyday lives. We use digital tools to learn, talk to each other, shop, and be entertained. We need to make God-honouring digital choices.
So, how can we resist these temptations and maintain a healthy relationship with technology?
1. Set limits:
Regarding technology, you must set limits for ourselves. Set a daily limit for how much time you’ll spend on social media or watching TV, and stick to it.
2. Be Intentional with your Technology usage
Before you reach for your phone or turn on the TV, take a moment to be in the moment. Pay attention to what’s happening around you, understand your feelings and prioritise your weekly/daily goals. This can help you use technology more intentionally.
3. Strike a good balance:
Find other things you like to do instead of spending all your free time on your phone or computer. Read a book, walk, or hang out with family and friends. Taking part in these kinds of activities can help you find balance in your life and use technology less.
Conclusion
Ultimately, you have to decide how we want to use technology. Adam and Eve had to choose what to do in the Garden of Eden, as do we regarding our digital well-being. Let’s make smart choices and use technology to make us healthier and happier.
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