Issue link: https://discover.cph.org/i/1466964
Purpose-driven tech use. Thoughtfully use technology, asking, to quote Socrates, "Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?" If there is not a healthy reason to use tech, you're better off without it. Tech, as with all things, originated from God's creation. As a child psychiatrist, I would not have been able to reach my patients without tech in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine has been a blessing. I am not suggesting that you abandon all tech. But use it in a manner that glorifies God and is aligned with His purposes. Do not multi-task. Do one thing at a time and do it well. Even for younger generations, multi-tasking does not work. It wastes time and causes errors. With distracted lives, we often focus on the wrong things. Schedule. In the short term, fasting from tech may be necessary to break the cycle of overuse and overdependence. Then, in the long term, maximize the purposeful use of tech, overall using tech in moderation. Schedule activities such as exercise, cooking, face-to-face relationships, prayer, and time in nature. These activities are often neglected. Seek help. Strong forces are at work in tech. They prey upon our sinful human nature. If you feel greatly distressed by the impact of tech in your life or it is causing impairment, you deserve help. This can start with self-help, such as reading this article and following these steps. But you do not have to go it alone. Turn to your church family for support. Seek Christian counseling. There is also a form of psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, that can benefit you. Enjoy! Like all parts of our life, our use of tech is redeemed by Jesus Christ. With God at the rightful center of your life—and using healthy tech habits and receiving any help necessary to overcome challenges—you can now receive the blessings of tech without the harmful side effects. w 6 7 8 9 10 Rethink your technology habits and how they're impacting all portions of your life, including your faith life, in Redeeming Technology. Discover helpful tips from both a pastor and board- certified psychiatrist. Find this title and others listed in Lutheran Life at cph.org/llresources. REDEEMING TECHNOLOGY Lutheran Life 7