There’s no doubt that technology has made things easier and faster to accomplish. Research and education, communication, money transfers, shopping, advice on do-it-yourself projects or health tips, and so much more can be done or found with a few swipes and taps on a phone.

As Christians, there are many ways we can use technology to our advantage in our study of God’s Word, our fellowship with like-minded believers, and as a tool to minister to and encourage others.

But with the advantages also comes the real, easy danger of spending too much time in the virtual world to the neglect of real-life important relationships and day-to-day matters.

Scrolling social media, watching videos or reels, listening to podcasts or e-books, delving into gaming, or reading endless articles, etc., can take up a good portion of your time that afterwards just feels like time wasted. And at night it can eat into your sleep schedule, causing you to be groggy, late for work or other activities, or not able to put your best efforts into the day.

I know, because I have been there, often. It’s a trap that’s easy to fall into because the opportunity is almost always literally at our fingertips. Many times, an hour or two can be wasted after just wanting to “check one thing.”

Society at large is starting to become more aware of the dangers and problems that digital addictions can cause, such as sleep deprivation, mental health issues, a sedentary lifestyle, and reclusive behavior, to name a few.

So how do we safeguard ourselves or break the cycle? Here are some practical tips that may help:

1) Acknowledge that you need to change. For any addiction or bad habit, this is the place to start. Examine where your weaknesses are and what improvements are needed.

2) Schedule your time wisely and limit your time online. If you know you are easily distracted, try to stay on a schedule regarding your screen time.

3) Set aside a time each day for activities that don’t require a phone, laptop, or digital devices. Go for a walk, take up a hobby or renew an old one, visit a friend, or volunteer with a local charity. Give yourself time away from modern technology to experience the joys and benefits of being aware of your surroundings.

4) If you have children, plan activities to do together, such as board games, baking, crafts, bicycling, or sports.

5) Ask for help or prayer. Our family or friends often know where our problems lie before we see them ourselves, and they can help and support us with overcoming our problems and seeing us through the issues we need to work on.

6) Make bedtime a digital-free time. Often that’s when we get carried away, and it eats into our sleep schedule. Start a nighttime routine that involves reading a physical book, drinking a cup of herbal tea, praying for your friends and loved ones or the day ahead, writing in a journal, or whatever helps you to wind down and relax.

7) Pray before starting the day. Before you reach for your phone first thing in the morning, take a few moments to read a scripture or pray for the day. Start your morning with something inspirational and uplifting.

When starting good habits or overcoming bad ones, being consistent is key. It may not be easy at first, but with practice you can get control over your time and habits!

Here are a few verses that can help you to keep your eyes on your goal:

  • “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever” (1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV).
  • “Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked so hard to achieve. Be diligent so that you receive your full reward” (2 John 1:8 NLT).
  • “The grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age” (Titus 2:11–12 NIV).
  • “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV).
  • “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak” (Isaiah 40:29 NIV).
  • “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all” (Psalm 34:19 NIV).
    “I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13 NIV).