I wanted to write on a topic that is increasingly relevant in our modern world – the balance between our digital lives and our spiritual lives. In this age of constant connectivity and instant information, it is easy to find ourselves engrossed in the world of social media. While these various platforms offer various benefits and opportunities, they also present significant challenges, particularly when it comes to the allocation of our time and attention.
In this article, I wish to explore the importance of spending more time with Heavenly Father and the Scriptures than with social media. I am in no way advocating that we abandon our digital devices or online social connections, but rather a reminder to prioritise the eternal over the temporary, the sacred over the trivial.
The Allure of Social Media
First, I want to briefly discuss the allure of social media, recognising its captivating nature and the reasons why so many are drawn into its chains. These platforms, meticulously crafted by algorithms and user interface designs, are ingeniously designed to capture our attention. They present us with a seemingly endless stream of updates, notifications, and content meticulously tailored to our preferences and past interactions. With each swipe, tap, or click, we are pulled further into this digital world, where entertainment, connection, and validation seem just a scroll away. In this virtual realm, we find ourselves in the middle of a bustling marketplace of ideas and experiences. We can share our thoughts with the world in an instant, receive instant feedback through likes and comments, and connect with family, friends, and acquaintances across vast distances. The allure is undeniable; the sense of being constantly connected and in the loop is enticing for most people today. It offers a sense of belonging and relevance in a world that sometimes feels fragmented and isolating.
However, as we become ensnared in this online landscape, we must also recognise its limitations. While social media can provide fleeting moments of pleasure and connection, it often falls short in addressing our deeper spiritual needs. The satisfaction derived from accumulating likes, comments, and shares is inherently transient and superficial. It is a validation that is fleeting, leaving us perpetually chasing the next notification or affirmation. In this pursuit, we may find ourselves in a cycle of comparison and competition, measuring our worth against carefully curated digital personas. The quest for more followers, more likes, more shares can become all-consuming, leading to a sense of inadequacy and emptiness when the digital applause fades.
In contrast, the peace and fulfilment that come from spending time with Heavenly Father and His word are of an entirely different nature. When we turn our hearts and minds to the Scriptures, we are met with the light of truth and wisdom. Here, in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, we find guidance for traversing life’s challenges, comfort in times of sorrow, and strength in our moments of weakness. The peace that comes from genuine communion with Heavenly Father is never fleeting; it is a deep and abiding peace that transcends circumstances. It is a peace that surpasses understanding, anchoring us during life’s chaotic whirlwind. (Phil. 4:7) As we immerse ourselves in God’s word, we are reminded of His unfailing love, His unshakeable promises, and His eternal presence. The fulfilment we experience in the presence of God is not contingent on likes or shares; it is a fulfilment that springs from knowing our true identity as beloved children of the Most High. It is a fulfilment that empowers us to live with purpose and conviction, guided by principles of love, kindness, and righteousness.
In the bigger picture of life, social media may offer moments of colour and vibrancy, but it is in the quiet sanctuary of prayer and reflection that we discover the true masterpiece. We should be very careful so as not to be seduced by the fleeting allure of online applause but instead, let us seek the lasting and real peace that comes from a deep and abiding relationship with our Creator.
Prioritising God’s Presence
Imagine holding in your hands a treasure more valuable than any earthly possession. The Scriptures are much more than words on a page; they are a divine roadmap lovingly crafted to guide us through the twists and turns of life’s paths. In these ancient and holy texts, we find more than stories of old but timeless wisdom that transcends generations. The Scriptures offer us a priceless treasure of truths, with themes of love, mercy, and guidance. When we open its pages, we are met with words that speak directly to our hearts, offering comfort in sorrowful times, strength in moments of weakness, and hope in the face of uncertainty.
A Source of Wisdom and Comfort
As we walk the path of life, we encounter countless challenges and uncertainties. In these moments, the Scriptures stand as a grand lighthouse, shining forth light that offers us wisdom and comfort to navigate even the stormiest of seas. They provide us with the most valuable of principles and moral compass points to guide our decisions and actions.
Consider the words of the Psalmist who declares, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psa. 119:105) Just as a lamp illuminates the path before us in the darkness, the Scriptures illuminate our lives, offering clarity and purpose. When we immerse ourselves in the study of the word of God, not only are we reading ancient texts, we are receiving divine guidance for our present circumstances.
Nourishing Our Spirits
The world around us can often leave us feeling depleted and weary, but the Scriptures serve as a balm for our souls. They offer us spiritual nourishment, feeding our spirits with the sustenance needed to face each day with courage and faith. When we immerse ourselves in the Scriptures, we are filling our hearts and minds with the eternal truths of God’ love and promises.
Just as we nourish our bodies with food and water, so too must we nourish our spirits with the life-giving words of Scripture. The more we drink from its depths, the more we find our souls refreshed and renewed. (cf. Isa. 12:3; John 4:14; 7:38; 1 Ne. 11:25) It is through this daily sustenance that we find the strength to persevere, the courage to face adversity, and the peace that surpasses all understanding.
Deepening Our Relationship with God
Above all else, the Scriptures serve as a means of deepening our relationship with Heavenly Father. The Scriptures are a testament to Heavenly Father’s enduring love for His children. As we immerse ourselves in His word, we open the door to intimacy with the Creator of the universe.
Through prayerful study and reflection, we invite the Holy Ghost’s presence to dwell within us. We create a sacred space where the still small voice can be heard, His wisdom can be received, and His love can be experienced in meaningful ways. When we prioritise God’s presence through prayer and study, we open ourselves to a life-changing walk of spiritual growth and maturity.
Embracing the Light of Scriptures
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.” (Psa. 119:105-106)
We can not underestimate the power and significance of the Scriptures in our lives. They are more than words on a page; they are a living, breathing testament to God’s love and faithfulness. As we immerse ourselves in His word, we are guided, comforted, and strengthened for the journey ahead.
The Psalmist’s words are worth pondering. We should always allow the Scriptures to be a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. In a world that can leave us feeling lost and uncertain, the Scriptures offer us a sure foundation on which to stand. I pray that we can continually seek God’s wisdom and guidance in His word, knowing that in its pages, we find the peace and fulfilment that our souls so deeply crave.
Cultivating a Quiet Heart
In the hustle and bustle of life, filled with schedules packed to the brim and the incessant demands of work, family, and responsibilities, finding moments of stillness and reflection can seem like an elusive dream for many people today. Yet, it is precisely in these quiet moments that we discover the beauty of connecting with our Creator. Jesus, our ultimate example of a balanced and spiritually rich life, often withdrew to solitary places to pray. In the Gospel of Luke 5:16, we read, “he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.” This intentional retreat from the noise and clamour of daily life was not necessarily an act of isolation, but rather a deliberate choice to seek communion with the Father.
When we follow Jesus’ example and step away from the constant distractions of social media, we create a sacred space for the Holy Ghost to speak to our hearts. In the midst of the digital raucousness, where notifications compete for our attention and timelines vie for our scrolling thumbs, it can be challenging to hear the gentle whisper of God’s voice. Yet, when we intentionally carve out time for prayer, meditation, and study, we silence the external noise and open our hearts to His presence.
This intentional solitude is not about cutting ourselves off from the world; rather, it is a call to reconnect with our inner selves and with Heavenly Father. Just as Jesus sought out solitary places to commune with the Father, we too can find solace in moments of quiet reflection. In the embrace of silence, we create a sacred sanctuary within our hearts where the Spirit’s voice can be heard clearly. It is in these moments of intentional solitude that we tune out the distractions of the world and tune into the voice of our Creator. Like tuning a radio to a frequency, we adjust our hearts to be receptive to the divine frequencies of love, wisdom, and guidance. As the noise of social media fades into the background, we find ourselves enveloped in the peaceful presence of God. In this intentional solitude, we are not alone. The Psalms tells us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) As we quiet our minds and open our hearts, we come to know God in a deeper and more intimate way. We discover that He is not distant or unreachable but is as close as our next breath, ready to speak to us in the quiet whispers of our souls.
With this in mind, we can carve out sacred moments in our busy lives to disconnect from the noise of social media and reconnect with the Source of all life. In the quiet stillness, we can find refreshment for our souls, clarity for our minds, and guidance for our paths. As we tune into the voice of our Creator, we can be transformed from within, renewed in spirit, and strengthened for the journey ahead. By following the example of Jesus, who withdrew to solitary places to pray, we can discover the deep wellspring of divine love and wisdom.
Developing Meaningful Connections
In our fast-paced digital age, social media has become a ubiquitous tool for connecting with others. It offers us the ability to stay in touch with friends and family, to share our lives, and to engage in conversations with people from around the world. This can be a blessing for many, especially those who are unable to meet with their family, friends or church due to illnesses, location or other circumstances. However, as mentioned above, we must recognise the limitations of these online connections. While social media undoubtedly has its benefits, allowing us to reach out across distances and share moments of our lives, it often falls short in fostering deep and meaningful relationships. The interactions we have on these platforms can lack the depth and authenticity that come from face-to-face communication. Behind the screens, it is easy for messages to be misinterpreted, for true emotions to be masked, and for meaningful conversations to be diluted by the noise of the digital world.
In contrast, when we prioritise spending time with God, we embark on a journey of deepening our connection to the Source of all love and compassion. Heavenly Father, who is the epitome of love and understanding, invites us into a relationship that transcends the limitations of social media. In His presence, we find a love that is unwavering, a compassion that is boundless, and a wisdom that surpasses all understanding. As we invest in our spiritual lives through prayer, meditation, and the study of the Scriptures, we become vessels of God’s love and grace. This transformation within us not only benefits us, but is intended to overflow into the lives of those around us. Just as a lamp illuminates the darkness, our connection to God shines His light into the world, touching the lives of others in many different ways.
When we spend time with God, our words and actions are no longer driven by the superficial desires of social media but are infused with His wisdom and kindness. We become more integrated with His voice, more sensitive to the needs of others, and more intentional in our relationships. Our interactions with family, friends, associated, and even strangers are coloured by the love that flows from our relationship with Heavenly Father. In this way, our relationships take on a deeper meaning and significance. We become conduits of God’s love, extending His grace and compassion to those around us. Our words become a source of comfort, our actions a reflection of His goodness. Through our example, we draw others closer unto Him, inviting them to experience the life-changing power of His love.
We should never underestimate the importance of prioritising our relationship with God over the allure of social media. As we invest in our spiritual lives, we are not only enriching our own souls but also becoming instruments of His love in the world. We should be intentional in our pursuit of Heavenly Father and His voice, knowing that in doing so, we are cultivating deeper, more meaningful relationships with those around us.
Choosing the Eternal
In conclusion, think seriously about the invitation to prioritise God and His Scriptures over the fleeting distractions of social media. This invitation is a gentle yet urgent plea to choose the eternal over the temporary, the profound over the trivial. In a world filled with constant noise and endless distractions, it is easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Social media, while offering a plethora of entertainment and connection, can often leave us feeling empty and dissatisfied. The satisfaction derived from likes, comments, and shares is fleeting, like trying to quench our thirst with saltwater. It is the pursuit of the eternal, the deep well of spiritual nourishment found in Heavenly Father and His word, that truly satisfies the longing of our souls.
The Psalmist, in the beautiful words of Psalm 63:1, expresses a deep yearning for God’s presence: “O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is.” May our thoughts and lives echo this sentiment in our daily walk, thirsting for God with a fervour that surpasses all other desires. Just as a parched land eagerly drinks in the life-giving rains, may our souls thirst for the refreshing waters of His presence.
As we cultivate a habit of spending more time with God and immersing ourselves in His word, we open ourselves to real transformation. The Scriptures are living and active, capable of penetrating to the deepest recesses of our hearts and minds. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Heb. 4:12) When we allow God’s word to dwell richly within us, we are renewed from the inside out. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” (Col. 3:16)
Our hearts, once burdened with the cares of the world, are transformed into vessels of His love and grace. Our minds, once cluttered with the noise of social media, are renewed with His truth and wisdom. Our lives, once focused on the trivial pursuits of this world, are enriched beyond measure as we bring our minds in line with His eternal purposes. May we be a people known for our deep and abiding relationship with the Heavenly Father. May our lives be a reflection of His light, shining brightly in a world full of people that grope in darkness. As we spend time in His presence, we are filled with His love, joy, and peace, overflowing to touch the lives of those around us.
Let’s prioritise God and His Scriptures above all else. In a world that is clamouring for our attention, may we choose the one thing that is truly necessary. As we do, may our hearts be transformed, our minds renewed, and our lives enriched beyond measure. In this way, we can be like trees planted by streams of water, rooted deeply in His word and bearing fruit in season. (cf. Psalm 1:3) May we bring glory to His name and point others to the Source of all life and hope.
