Technology and Faith: Setting Boundaries for Social Media and Screen Time

Technology is a powerful tool that can be used for good or harm. In today’s digital world, children and adults alike are constantly connected through social media, video streaming, and online gaming. While technology provides opportunities for learning, communication, and even spiritual growth, it also presents significant risks, including addiction, distractions from faith, and exposure to harmful content.

As Christians, we are called to be good stewards of our time and minds, ensuring that technology does not take the place of our relationship with God. Setting boundaries for social media and screen time is essential for maintaining a Christ-centered life.

1. Understanding the Impact of Technology on Faith

Technology influences our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. While it can be a source of encouragement through sermons, worship music, and Christian communities, it can also lead to distractions, comparison, and even spiritual apathy.

Scripture Reference:

“I will set no worthless thing before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me.” – Psalm 101:3

Social media, for example, often fosters unrealistic comparisons, leading to dissatisfaction and envy. It can also fill our minds with worldly perspectives that are contrary to God’s truth. This is why it’s important to evaluate whether our online habits are drawing us closer to Christ or pulling us away.

2. Setting Biblical Priorities Over Screen Time

One of the biggest challenges in the digital age is managing time wisely. The average person spends over 7 hours a day looking at screens, often neglecting prayer, Bible study, and meaningful relationships.

Scripture Reference:

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” – Ephesians 5:15-16

To ensure technology does not dominate our lives, we should prioritize:

✔ Daily prayer and devotion before checking social media

✔ Family time and face-to-face conversations over screen entertainment

✔ Using technology to enhance spiritual growth rather than distract from it

Practical Tip: Set a rule where you (and your children) do not use screens for the first hour of the day. Instead, spend that time in prayer and reading Scripture.

3. Establishing Healthy Social Media Boundaries

Social media can be a place of connection, but it can also lead to negative influences and wasted time. Setting clear boundaries ensures that we remain in control of our digital consumption rather than being controlled by it.

Scripture Reference:

“All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be dominated by anything.” – 1 Corinthians 6:12

Healthy Social Media Boundaries:

✔ Limit social media use to a set time each day (e.g., 30-60 minutes)

✔ Unfollow accounts that promote comparison, negativity, or ungodly content

✔ Take regular “social media fasts” to refocus on God and real-life relationships

✔ Use social media intentionally—to share encouragement, learn, or connect, rather than mindless scrolling

Practical Tip: Turn off notifications to avoid unnecessary distractions and check social media only at designated times.

4. Teaching Children to Use Technology Wisely

Parents have a crucial role in guiding children to use technology in a way that honors God. The goal is not to ban technology but to teach self-control and discernment.

Scripture Reference:

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6

Ways to Set Boundaries for Kids:

✔ Create screen-free zones (e.g., dinner table, bedrooms)

✔ Use parental controls and monitor content

✔ Encourage outdoor play, reading, and family activities as alternatives to screen time

✔ Model healthy tech habits by limiting your own screen use

Practical Tip: Establish a “tech-free family night” once a week where everyone puts away devices and spends quality time together.

5. Using Technology for Spiritual Growth

While technology can be a distraction, it can also be a tool for spiritual growth if used wisely.

Ways to Use Technology for Faith:

✔ Listen to audio Bibles and Christian podcasts

✔ Follow Christian influencers who share biblical encouragement

✔ Join online Bible study groups

✔ Use apps for scripture memorization and prayer tracking

Scripture Reference:

“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” – Colossians 3:17

Instead of letting technology control us, we should use it to glorify God and deepen our faith.

Final Reflection Question

Does your use of technology and social media draw you closer to God, or does it distract you from Him?

By setting intentional boundaries, prioritizing faith over screen time, and using technology for good, we can navigate the digital world in a way that honors God.