My phone says I spent over 20 hours on it last week. That’s almost a full day of my life on a screen—just in one week. And it’s on top of the 40 hours at work and the Gilmore Girls marathons at home.
When Screens Steal What Matters
If you’re like me, you know technology, TV, and social media can quietly take time and attention away from what matters most, like time with God. Yet cutting back can feel like someone telling you to eat more broccoli. We want to be healthy, but will less screen time really help our faith?
Technology is not the problem. This morning, I read my Bible on my phone. I also scrolled through social media before I got out of bed. The challenge is learning to want fewer distractions and more connection with God. Let’s explore how to do that together.
If you’re looking for a simple overview, simply scroll down and look for the yellow dots (🟡) to read a quick summary of each section.
Table of Contents
What Does the Bible Say About Technology and Screens?
🟡 Quick Section Summary: The Bible doesn’t mention technology like smartphones or social media, but it gives timeless wisdom we can apply to screen time and digital habits. Scripture encourages us to set wise boundaries (Ephesians 5:15-16), focus our thoughts on what is good and true (Philippians 4:8), and avoid being mastered by anything (1 Corinthians 6:12). Jesus invites us to find real rest in Him (Matthew 11:29) and to live with purpose, choosing God’s ways over cultural pressures (Romans 12:2). These truths guide Christians to use technology in ways that honor God and protect our hearts.
What does the Bible say about technology and screens? Is this a trick question? After all, Jesus wasn’t walking around with the newest iPhone, posting His daily miracles on TikTok. And as He moved from city to city, He didn’t have a digital map guiding His steps or telling Him about questionable weather ahead.
7 Bible Verses for Screen-Time Wisdom
Even though technology has developed so much in the last 2,000 years, the Bible is full of wisdom that can be applied to the way we think about our screens, media, and technology. Let’s take a closer look at a few biblical truths to help us understand technology’s role in our lives.
- Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity … Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV
Wisdom sets boundaries to protect against temptation and distractions.
- Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 NIV
What we think about matters.
- “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12 NIV
While we can do anything, not everything is beneficial.
- “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:29 NIV
Jesus gives us rest that the world can’t take away.
- And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another … Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV
We need Christ-centered relationships for encouragement and support.
- Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT
We listen to God’s will instead of just copying culture.
- “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 NIV
Jesus gives us full, abundant life.
How Does Technology Impact My Faith?
🟡 Quick Section Summary: Technology can shape our faith for better or for worse. It can distract us, tempt us with unhelpful content, or make us feel like we don’t need others. But when we use it with purpose, technology can help us grow by giving access to Scripture, devotionals, Christian voices, and community. The key is to set boundaries and use technology as a tool to draw closer to God.
Have you ever looked at your daily average screen time and been shocked by what you saw? What’s even more jarring, at least for me, is when I see that my social media, texting, and streaming apps have significantly higher usage than my Bible App or other devotional tools. It’s pretty obvious that technology impacts my faith.
Maybe you can relate. It doesn’t take long for algorithms to suck us in, taking away precious time from the people around us. And many of us have made jokes when Netflix kindly asks, “Are you still watching?”
But what is the real impact technology has on our faith?
3 Ways Technology Hurts Our Faith
- Technology distracts us from what matters most. If we’re not careful, “just 10 more minutes” becomes an evening of doomscrolling and a poor night’s sleep.
- Technology allows us to be independent. Nobody wants to feel like a burden, but at the same time, we all want to be needed and known by others. And we do need each other, but technology makes it really easy for us to pretend we don’t.
- Technology tempts us with content we don’t need. Whether it’s impulse spending or explicit content, you don’t have to look at social media or streaming services for long before finding something you probably didn’t need to see.
3 Ways Technology Builds Our Faith
- It gives us easy access to spiritual growth tools. From Bible apps to devotional videos to sermon podcasts, technology gives us access to nearly unlimited faith-building resources.
- It introduces new perspectives. Social media helps us discover new perspectives and hear from diverse voices. Their encouragement, wisdom, and example can strengthen any follower of Jesus.
- It helps us stay connected. We’re made for community. By leveraging group chats, social media, and other online platforms, we can connect and learn from each other.
3 Ways Jesus Would Use Technology
🟡 Quick Section Summary: Jesus did not live in a digital world, but His example still guides how we can use technology today. He would use it to connect with people, share hope, and point others to God. He would challenge unhealthy patterns and remind us that not everything popular is good for our hearts. Jesus would also show us how to step away from screens and find real rest in God.
One of the best ways to grow in faith is to live like Jesus. But what happens when the thing we’re asking about didn’t exist 2,000 years ago? The Bible doesn’t mention phones, social media, or video games—but we can still learn from how Jesus lived.
1. Jesus would use technology to connect with people.
Jesus loved telling stories that helped people understand God’s truth. Jesus’ parables used familiar things, like farming, fishing, and family life so that people could grasp deep spiritual ideas.
If Jesus were here today, He might use social media to share stories that point people to God. Maybe He would post encouraging messages or comment with kindness. Whichever way He used technology, it would always be to help people find hope and know God better.
2. Jesus would challenge what feels “normal.”
When Jesus walked the earth, He often made religious people uncomfortable. He called out hypocrisy and invited people to live with real integrity.
If Jesus were online today, He might challenge what we post, watch, and share. He would lovingly point out where we’re following culture more closely than Him. And He would remind us that not everything popular is good for our hearts.
3. Jesus would know when to take a break.
Have you ever felt worn out by technology or more tired when you close your social media apps than you did before you opened them? We know we need less screen time, and yet it’s often our go-to option when we’re looking for ways to unwind and relax.
Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29 NIV). Jesus would model what it looks like to step away from screens and find real rest in God, and He would invite us to do the same.
Choosing to limit screen time is one way we can follow Jesus in a digital world. It’s a way to practice wisdom, self-control, and deep connection with God.
Faith-Filled Strategies to Fight Screen Time Overuse
🟡 Quick Section Summary: Cutting back on screen time is hard because technology is designed to keep us hooked. With God’s help, we can set healthy habits that create space for rest and connection with Him. Faith-filled strategies include setting screen time boundaries, planning meaningful activities, trying a digital Sabbath, and starting the day with God.
Have you ever tried to limit your screen time, only to slip back into old habits? One of the hardest parts is not just cutting back, but filling that space with something better.
Our phones, apps, and shows are designed to keep us hooked. The quick dopamine hits from videos or social feeds leave us wanting more. No wonder stepping back feels so hard.
But with God’s help, we can set new habits that create space for rest, purpose, and deeper connection with Him.
Practical Tips to Reduce Screen Time
- Make a plan for when, where, and how you’ll use screens. You might choose to watch shows and movies with friends and family, limit social media to a specific device, or set screen time limits for specific apps.
- Give your screens a bedtime, and leave them outside of your room. You can pre-decide to quit late-night doomscrolling by setting boundaries around your phone or TV. Plus, if you take the extra step to charge your devices in a separate room, you’ll begin noticing a positive change in your sleep.
- Plan how you’ll replace screen time. You might try a new hobby, spend time outdoors, or play board games with your family. If you don’t have a plan for how to replace screen time, it’ll be harder to unplug.
- Choose a designated day to go screen free. The Bible talks about Sabbath as a way of resting from work and enjoying the good things God has made. While screens can help us connect with others and be a tool for accessing the world around us, it’s also helpful to intentionally take longer breaks. If a full day seems intimidating, you might start with a few hours on a weekend. Again, have a plan for how you’ll fill the time so you’re less tempted to pick up your phone or turn on the TV.
- Set boundaries around your morning routine. If you’re anything like me, your phone is the first thing you grab when you wake up. While I haven’t broken this habit yet, I try to challenge myself to read my devotional on my Bible App before I open Instagram. This not only fuels my soul, but is a direct way I remind myself of my priorities and focus on God each day.
A Prayer for Screen Time Addiction
Heavenly Father, thank You for making so many good things. Please give me wisdom to know when to use technology as a tool, and discernment to know when I need a break. I don’t want to miss the many ways You’re at work in my life because I’m distracted by the screens around me. Please help me fight the temptation to use my phone or TV to numb my emotions instead of trusting You to guide me through them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Families, Kids, and Digital Discipleship
🟡 Quick Section Summary: Parenting in a digital world can feel overwhelming, but there are simple ways to help your family use technology with wisdom. You can reflect on your own screen habits, talk with your kids about the ways technology helps or harms, and set healthy boundaries together. The goal is not perfection but showing your kids that you are present, you care, and you’re learning alongside them.
Have you heard the term “iPad kid” and cringed? Or wondered if it’s too late to help your teenager navigate social media and the endless “For You” feed?
As parents, we feel a deep sense of responsibility to protect our kids from harm. But the ever-evolving digital world can make it seem impossible to stay ahead of the curve.
So how can we help our kids navigate screens, social media, and gaming in a way that’s helpful and healthy?
I talked with some friends who work for Axis.org, a leading nonprofit on a mission to help parents start a conversation with their kids that never ends. They have so many resources for parents as they disciple their teenagers in a digital world.
And as a mom of a young toddler, I love how their principles can be applied to kids of all ages.
Here are three things I’ve learned from Axis that you can start right now.
1. Assess your own relationship with technology.
What example are you setting for your kids when it comes to your technology habits? As parents and guardians, we have the greatest influence on our children. They’re always watching us and want to be like us.
So if we’re chronically distracted by social media feeds or are always the ones turning on the TV, our kids will notice.
Spend time thinking about these questions:
If I had to quantify the amount of time I spend on my phone, watching shows or movies, and gaming each week, what would it be?
How do I feel about that number?
2. Reflect on what you love about technology, what you hate about technology, and how you can redeem technology as a family.
It’s easy to think that technology is neutral and it all depends on how you use it. That’s partially true, but it’s also incomplete. As followers of Christ, we get to view the world from this perspective:
- God created a good world (Genesis 1-2).
- The world is broken and incomplete because of sin (Genesis 3:1-13).
- God is at work redeeming the world, and He invites us to participate with Him (Genesis 3:14-24).
Like many other tools, technology can bring good things, like connection with others and access to Scripture. But it also has the potential to be destructive, risking early exposure to explicit content or leading to distraction and screen addiction.
As the leader of your family, you get to determine which boundaries and guardrails you’ll use to protect your kids.
As the leader of your family, you get to determine which boundaries and guardrails you’ll use to protect your kids from potentially harmful effects of technology—while also acknowledging all the good things about it.
Take time to write down what you love about technology, what worries you, and how your family can use it for good. Maybe you benefit from reading Bible Plans together or having a family movie night. Stay flexible with this, because how you use tech as a family can change over time.
3. Start a conversation with your kids about technology in your home.
One of the best ways to disciple your kids in a digital world is by starting a conversation with them that never ends. Our kids are full of wonder and love observing the world around them. One of the best ways to start addressing screen time, smartphones, and gaming in your home is by talking with your kids.
You might even ask your family these questions the next time you’re in the car or eating dinner together:
- If you could make a new rule about how we use technology, what would it be?
- What do you think about how much I use my phone?
- When I’m on my phone, what do you think I’m doing?
- When do you feel like I’m paying attention to you the most?
Bonus: Don’t overthink this process.
No parent will get this perfect, and perfection is not the goal.
Technology is always developing, and we’re all learning as we go. What matters most is showing your kids that you love them, see them, and want what is best for them. As you set boundaries and have conversations, remember that God chose you for this role, and you are the right person for the job.
What Christians Ask About Screen Time, Technology, and Faith (FAQs)
Does the Bible say anything about screen time or technology?
The Bible does not mention screens, social media, or gaming, but it gives timeless wisdom about guarding our hearts, using time well, and staying focused on God.
How can I tell if technology is hurting my relationship with God?
Ask yourself: Is this distracting me from time with God? Is it filling my mind with what is good and true? Is it controlling me instead of me controlling it?
When it’s time to put your phone down.
What are some practical ways Christians can reduce screen time?
Set app limits, give devices a bedtime, plan screen-free time like a digital Sabbath, and replace screen time with meaningful activities that draw you closer to God and others.
Learn how to do a social media fast.
How can I teach my kids to use technology wisely?
Lead by example, talk often about what helps or harms, set clear family boundaries, and invite your kids into the conversation so they feel part of the plan.
Should my kids play video games?
Would Jesus use social media or technology today?
While we cannot know for sure how Jesus would use modern technology, what we see of His life in the Gospels shows He would probably use any tool that helps share truth, love people well, and point others to God.
Read more on Jesus and social media.
What can Christians watch or stream?
Christians can enjoy entertainment that aligns with their values, encourages what is good, and does not fill their minds or hearts with things that draw them away from God. The goal is to watch with wisdom and discernment.
Can Christians use AI?
Yes, Christians can use AI as a tool, just like any other technology. The key is to use it in ways that honor God, show love to others, and support truth. As with all tech, it’s wise to set boundaries and be mindful of how it shapes your thoughts, choices, and relationships.