My Tech-Wise LifeНамуна

Who Will Be In Charge? [by Amy] 

Unlike any other generation in history, you and I are growing up with this crazy, powerful force of technology. We should surely listen to wisdom from older family and friends, but we’re the ones who have the power—and the responsibility—to choose how to live with it.

Our week is not just about the phones in our pockets or the iPads on our couches. Barring catastrophes outside our control, we can safely assume that our future will be full of technology. But we can control the way we choose to shape our world. Will we let tech determine how we live our lives, or will we be in charge?

Make no mistake: tech isn’t neutral. It makes a whole lot of predictions about who we are and how we want to live our lives. According to technology, we’re busy, needing productivity apps and multitasking; but we’re also bored, needing distraction at the flick of our fingers. And tech also tells us that we’re lonely, providing us with virtual intimacy to replace the companionship we desperately need. Tech can persuade us that these issues are the new normal—that we just have to live with them. 

I am determined not to give in. We can’t fight these troubles alone, and it’s not something tech can do for us. I believe part of the answer is found in community. Let’s fight boredom every time it rears its head, setting aside the distractions of technology for slow, good, meaningful discovery.  Let’s fight our busyness too, remembering that a life full of stress isn’t sustainable.  

Loneliness is, I think, the hardest of all. But it is something we can emerge from. In my life, I pushed back by plunging deeply into community and discovered what a lie it is that I am ever alone. I have set aside the endless visions of friends on my screens and sought the real thing. And I’m willing to keep taking these steps every time loneliness slips back into my heart and tells me that I’m not enough.

I can honestly say that my life has more confidence and wonder and rest than it did four years ago. I wake up with hope in my heart. I rejoice in myself and in those around me. Small choices. Each day. A day at a time. “Those who know your name trust in You, for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You (Psalm 9:10). 

Take the time to imagine what your life would look like if you didn’t let devices control you. Ask God to show you the small step you are to take today.