20 Lutheran Life
TECHNOLOGY
AND REST
BY AMY BIRD
For all the benefits and advantages
technology has—and will continue to
have—on our daily lives and culture, it's
not without its need for limits. Like all
good gifts, technology can be misused,
abused, and harmful. This is especially
true of our use of social media.
Do you ever find yourself doing a quick check of your
favorite social media app only to realize minutes or
maybe hours have gone by with your eyes glued to your
phone? Most of us want to be less connected to our
devices but somehow can't seem to create that space.
So we need to ask ourselves: Is my constant connection
to technology—and specifically all that's available at
the touch of my phone—good for my soul? Is it ground-
ing me in thankfulness and joy? Is it helping me grow in
Jesus' love?
Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 reminds us that there is a time for
everything. That includes a time to connect and a time
to disconnect. A time to be with people and a time to
be alone. A time to be informed with the news of the
day and a time to be uninformed. A time for loud and
a time for quiet. A time for engagement and a time for
withdrawal.
20 Lutheran Life
