Being Faithful in a Digital World

A Reflection on Social Media, Attention, and Stewardship

Scripture reminds us, “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful.” (1 Corinthians 6:12)

We live in a time where connection is easier than ever. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow us to share messages, stay informed, and remain in touch across distance. These tools can be useful. However, as people of faith, we are also called to practice discernment, especially in how we steward our time, attention, and hearts.

What we give our attention to shapes us. Many digital platforms are designed to keep us scrolling, reacting, and emotionally engaged for long periods of time. This is not accidental. Content that stirs strong emotions, fear, anger, comparison, or outrage, often spreads more quickly than content that promotes peace, understanding, or reflection.

As believers, we must ask ourselves:

Is what I’m consuming drawing me closer to God, or leaving me anxious, distracted, or unsettled?

Social media platforms rely on automated systems to decide what content appears on our screens. These systems respond to engagement, not wisdom. They cannot distinguish between what is spiritually nourishing and what is merely attention-grabbing.

This means that harmful or divisive content may be amplified simply because it keeps people engaged longer. Scripture calls us to be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16), reminding us that discernment is our responsibility.

Proverbs 4:23 tells us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

When we constantly consume information designed to provoke reaction, we risk becoming less patient, less compassionate, and less attentive to the Spirit.

Periods of silence, prayer, and intentional rest from digital noise are not signs of withdrawal. The church can and should use digital tools for ministry, communication, and outreach. But we must do so with boundaries. Platforms should serve the mission—not shape it.

Healthy practices include:

• Limiting screen time

• Prioritizing direct communication and relationships

• Valuing depth over constant visibility

• Choosing platforms and methods that respect people rather than overwhelm them

  
  

Faith has always been passed through relationship, testimony, and lived witness. No algorithm can replace the power of genuine connection, thoughtful teaching, and intentional community.

When we step back from constant digital consumption, we often find ourselves more present, with God, with one another, and with our own well-being.

Social media is a tool, not a master.

As believers, we are called to live deliberately, love deeply, and remain attentive to the voice of God above all others.

Let us use wisdom, not fear.

Let us choose stewardship over excess.

And let us remember that our worth is not measured by visibility, but by faithfulness.