Digital technology is a powerful tool that presents challenges and opportunities. Its significant impact on culture can be detrimental to the mental health of young Christian men when left unchecked.
Dangers of Digital Technology When Used Incorrectly
The all-encompassing influence of digital technologies can mislead you about your identity, corrupt your values and detach you from your community as a person of faith.
Deconstruction of Masculinity
The definition of a man is a hot-button topic on the internet. Modern ideas question time-honored beliefs about masculinity, labeling traditional male virtues as inappropriate and toxic.
Although open dialogue is essential in any well-functioning society, it can cause more harm than good when most voices online overwhelmingly echo the narratives of the nonconservative side of the aisle. Counterculture content can appear more prominently on social media feeds due to algorithm bias, creating an impression that influencers spreading the word of God represent the minority, which isn’t necessarily true.
Quintessential masculine traits remain in fashion, as evidenced by a 2024 Pew Research Center survey, which found that a majority of people in the United States hold mostly positive views of men who embody traditional masculinity.
Ultimately, scripture — not nonbelievers with agendas — serves as the primary resource for gaining clarity on how a person should behave, particularly in the digital age.
Technology Addiction
The advent of mobile devices has turned digital technologies into constant companions. Instant gratification is addictive in itself, and the ability to consume information with little restrictions at the touch of a button makes the internet a sinister environment.
Social media addiction, gaming disorder, online gambling, compulsive shopping and problematic consumption of pornography are pitfalls of irresponsible use of the internet. Some affect individuals differently, but they can all erode meaningful relationships.
Social Isolation
One of the greatest paradoxes of the internet is that digital connection can lead to real-world isolation. Digital technologies have rendered everything too convenient and made the world much smaller, diminishing the need for genuine human interaction.
There’s growing evidence that the frequent use of social media has led to loneliness among young people. Social isolation is a threat to community building. This is particularly worrying for the youth, as social experiences determine how people learn to relate to the world and help them to manage future emotions and relationships.
Passivity is often a result of spending too much time on social media and not enough time in the outside world. Idle hands are the devil’s workshop. It should serve as a spiritual warning to you and a reminder to reconnect with your loved ones and local community.
How to Use Tech to Enrich Your Life
Digital technology can amplify your voice and enable you to reach more lives through the Word of God. Learn how to be a good tech steward to harness the power of the internet responsibly, ethically and productively.
Consume Content Conservatively
The most effective way for young Christian men to use the internet for God’s glory is to spend time on it intentionally and with discernment. Purposely downloading Bible apps, listening to sermon podcasts and joining online prayer communities are prudent uses of digital technologies for spiritual growth.
However, you must curate feeds to avoid distractions and temptations. Filter out content that doesn’t add value to your mission as a child of God, making it easier to consume media that reinforces your faith and to support conservative influencers.
Practice Online Evangelism
Genuine human connections are still attainable on the internet, despite the increasing pervasiveness of artificial intelligence. Embrace honesty without fear of retaliation, not only because your future employers can’t use your social media posts against you, but also because people crave authenticity more than ever. Pray for wisdom and guidance to satisfy this unmet need with the Gospel.
Spreading faith-based content is one thing, but building a community with like-minded individuals sustainably is another. Whatever content you intend to create and share, aim to blend biblical truth with lived experiences. Relatable anecdotes about triumphs and struggles are inspiring, compelling others to share their stories. Engaging with others with compassion paves the road for discipleship.
Observe the Digital Sabbath
Making a conscious effort to go offline and connecting with other people brings balance to your life. Intentional disconnection from electronic devices is instrumental in ensuring a successful digital detox — an essential practice to neutralize the harmful effects of constant connectivity.
A digital Sabbath can be one or two full days a week or a couple of hours each day. Detox with someone and hold each other accountable to stick with the plan. Regardless of the duration, reducing your screen time regularly can help lower your stress levels, enjoy better sleep and give you more energy to nourish your real-world relationships.
Do God’s Work With Digital Technology
The internet and electronic devices can be a blessing when used properly. Pray for strength to navigate cyberspace correctly and stay on track to reach your goals and aspirations as a young Christian man.
