Points to Ponder:
Fourteen Tips to Digital Discipline
I. Intentionally control the use of gadgets. Disable or reduce notifications. Fix a time to check updates. Periodically, even stay away from the virtual place. Unlimited data does not mean to waste our limited time.
II. Refuse to respond to calls or messages while attending a spiritual service. It shows our respect for the organizers, fellow participants and the Lord Himself who alone is the pre-eminent one person present there.
III. When online, especially on social media, remember we are on a virtual highway. It’s just like a public place like a market. Hence behave as worthy of the Lord.
IV. Anything we post and share online should bring glory to God, never defile the name of the Lord and His people.
V. Avoid sharing something that was originally posted by the enemies of the gospel. Even if we agree on certain parts of the post, why should we promote the mission of the adversary?
VI. Be very careful before sharing any material online, even if it is with your closest friend. You will never know how far and wide the same post travels and you will be responsible for any harm resulted.
VII. Don’t just believe everything found online. Cross-check it with the scripture and our local church leaders.
VIII. While it’s commendable to present Biblical truths using digital platforms, using the same to criticise and discredit fellow believers is lamentable.
IX. It’s natural to have an inclination towards political and social issues, but it’s better to keep it personal. In the digital space, our priority must be the propagation of the word of God.
X. Set a tech-free zone like a family dinner, altar etc., when conversation between one another and the Lord is encouraged.
XI. Teach children about the peril of digital addiction and be an example to them.
XII. Never forget, when online you are not invisible. All that we do with our digital devices, whether actively or passively is being recorded and analysed.
XIII. Never click on a link forwarded by an unknown person. If not careful such a click would drain away your bank balance.
XIV. Be careful with the pop-up windows and social media suggested posts. The impact of one click will be far more than we could imagine.
NTK
