When we don’t have boundaries, the things we were meant to control will eventually control us. In this message, Pastor Eric Robertson shares how we can draw close to God and develop our own digital rule of life.
Technology has provided many benefits to the world, but have those benefits reached the point of diminishing returns?
Do you feel more anxious than you ever have? Do you feel overexposed? Like too many people you don’t really know, know more about you than those who live in your own home?
What we are missing is a plan.
Romans 12:2 –
“Do not be conformed to this world/age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Boundaries and order are important in the Bible. Not because God is trying to make life less fun or enjoyable, but because its the boundaries that protect the enjoyment.
When we fail to have boundaries, the things we were meant to rule over, will ultimately rule over us.
A rule of life is an intentional pattern of practices and boundaries that structure how you spend your attention, affections, and actions.
A digital rule of life is a plan for your technology.
Your system is perfectly designed to get the results you are getting.
How to Create a Digital Rule of Life
1. Start with a Digital Detox (Digital Minimalism, Cal Newport) Put aside a 30-day Period during which you will take a break from optional technologies in your life.
2. Be Specific
Ask yourself what technologies will I use, when will I use them, for how long will I use them, what kind of person will I become if I continue to use them?
3. Be Realistic
We can convince ourselves of many things, but we should never convince ourself that something that is actively harming our relationship with God and with others is too convenient to give up.
Digital Minimalism, Cal Newport pg. 65
4. Be Flexible
Our seasons of life change and so should our rule. There may be digital media or technology that serves us for a season but no longer does, so purge it. Ask God to help create new boundaries or adjust old ones.
When we have godly boundaries around our digital media, we can allow God to use it as a tool to make our lives more fulfilling and vibrant, instead of comparing our lives to others on a screen.
Screens are here to stay. If that is true, Christians must live differently and provide the world a model for self control.
1 Corinthians 6: 12
“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.
Is your digital media use forming you into the image of Jesus?