LORD’S DAY, JUNE 11
1 Corinthians 6:12
Romans 6:12

"Let not sin therefore reign
in your mortal body…"

ENSLAVED BY SMARTPHONES? (I)

The smartphone is a popular gadget today. It has become indispensable to many people. The popularity of the smartphone lies in the fact that it is a mobile phone and a mini computer rolled into one portable device. Its connectivity and many applications present users with a myriad of options for activity on the go. It is certainly a most powerful device for work and entertainment. However, just like any tool, an abuse of the smartphone can also lead to many dangers for the user.

This writer is especially concerned with how smartphones are used by Christians today. It is a worrying sight to see many glued to their phones, actively involved in gaming, messaging, watching videos, or other activities on social media platforms. Some of these activities are even conducted in the Lord’s house. There are times when users are so engrossed with their phones that they become unaware of their surroundings. It is as if they have been translated into some alternate reality!

The Bible expressly warns us to do all things in moderation. "All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any" (1 Cor 6:12). A Christian must not be enslaved or addicted to any activity or tool. This includes the use of smartphones. 1 Corinthians 10:23 further states that while there are activities which are lawful, yet not all activities are edifying to the spiritual life of the Christian. If the activity causes you to walk far from God, then we must certainly cease from that activity. Moreover, some of the activities may not even be lawful in the eyes of God! If such activities distract us from God’s calling in church, workplace or school, then we must stop these activities immediately.

THOUGHT: A tool abused makes man a fool.
PRAYER: Lord, help me to use all things properly for Thy glory.