Book Recommendations on Media and Christian Living
- The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch
- Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World by Cal Newport
- Competing Spectacles: Treasuring Christ in the Media Age by Tony Reinke
- Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman
- Plugged In: Connecting Your Faith with What You Watch, Read, and Play by Daniel Strange
Click the title to view the book on Amazon.
The Challenge and Opportunity of Screen Time
In a digital age, screen time is an inescapable reality, influencing how we think, connect, and live. While screens often distract or overwhelm, they also present opportunities for spiritual growth, cultural engagement, and creative expression.
This article explores how Christians can approach redeeming screen time, turning it into a tool for good and a means to reflect God’s glory.
Understanding the Impact of Screen Time
The Ubiquity of Screens
From smartphones to streaming platforms, screens are integral to modern life. They shape our:
- Habits: How we spend time and focus.
- Relationships: How we connect with others.
- Worldview: The narratives we consume influence our values and beliefs.
The Risks of Unredeemed Screen Time
Without intentionality, excessive screen use can lead to:
- Distraction: Fragmented attention and reduced focus on God and relationships.
- Distortion: Exposure to harmful or ungodly content.
- Disengagement: A loss of real-world community and spiritual disciplines.
A Biblical Approach to Screen Time
Stewardship of Time
Scripture calls us to steward our time wisely, aligning our habits with God’s purposes.
- Ephesians 5:15-16: “Be very careful, then, how you live… making the most of every opportunity.”
- Practical Step: Evaluate daily screen habits and set boundaries to prioritize what matters most.
Discernment in Media Consumption
Christians are called to test everything and hold fast to what is good.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22: “Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.”
- Practical Step: Assess media for its alignment with biblical truth, rejecting content that undermines faith.
Transforming Media for Good
Creating Redemptive Content
Christian creatives can use media to share the gospel, inspire hope, and reflect God’s beauty.
- Faith-Based Films and Music: Examples include The Chosen and artists like Lauren Daigle.
- Social Media Evangelism: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok can share Scripture and testimonies with vast audiences.
Engaging Thoughtfully with Secular Media
Not all secular media is antithetical to faith. Many stories explore universal themes like redemption, justice, and sacrifice.
- Cultural Engagement: Highlight biblical parallels in popular media to spark meaningful conversations.
- Creative Excellence: Demonstrate faith through artistry and professionalism that stands out in the industry.
Practical Tips for Redeeming Screen Time
Set Intentional Limits
- Use apps or timers to monitor and reduce screen usage.
- Dedicate specific times to prayer, Scripture reading, or family interactions without screens.
Cultivate a Balanced Media Diet
- Prioritize content that inspires, educates, or deepens faith.
- Balance entertainment with edifying resources like sermons, documentaries, or podcasts.
Engage Media as a Family
- Watch and discuss movies or shows together, integrating biblical perspectives.
- Use media as a springboard for teaching discernment and values.
The Role of Community and Accountability
Shared Commitments
Engage in discussions with your church or small group about media habits, encouraging mutual growth in wisdom and intentionality.
Accountability Partners
Partner with a friend or mentor to evaluate and refine your screen time practices regularly.
Redeeming Screens for God’s Glory
Redeeming screen time is about aligning our media habits with God’s purposes, using screens as tools for good rather than distractions. By creating, consuming, and engaging with media thoughtfully, Christians can transform a ubiquitous part of modern life into a powerful platform for faith, creativity, and connection.
