Technological Woes

As we I write, the office is experiencing minor technical difficulties with Joan’s computer. The wrong thing in the wrong place was checked the wrong way and it created a labyrinth of troubles. Now a dependency on technology has created a lapse in efficiency. Work will still be done, but time has to be expended on solving these problems. The struggle is between a dependency on technology and the problems that it creates. This is true even in our spiritual lives. We have more access to more information than we have ever had access to in the whole of human history, and this information is more diverse and unsubstantial than ever. We have access to diagnostic medical resources, but also have unhindered access to materials that are spiritually damaging to us. Technology has become a blessing and a curse.

                 I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. A perverse heart shall be far from me; I will know nothing of evil.

(Psa 101:3-4). We have to make a dedicated decision that we will not allow technology to become a stumbling block within our home. We have to remove the temptation from our presence in order to be secure. Does this mean that we have to remove our computers and televisions from our homes? No. This does mean that we take advantage of the resources made available to mange this technology in an effective manner. Here are a few tips:

1. Place all computers and televisions in public family places: Aside from disturbing the sleep cycle of watchers, televisions and computers in bedrooms provide a secret sheltered place where teens and adults alike are more apt to look at materials that can do serious mental and spiritual harm.
2. Find software and equipment to help with the problem: The legendary TV guardian is a great resource to help block foul language on television programs, and there are even DVD players with downloadable patches that edit movies to suitable standards. There are also computer programs like Be Safe Online that prevent visits to unsuitable websites and notify when the program has been bypassed or shut down.  These are great resources to create a safety net that stops some of the problems that these technologies can bring with them. Also your television probably has a V-Chip that lets you set the ratings of television shows that can be watched. It will require you to make a passcode. Keep it secret or it defeats the purpose of making a code in the first place.
3. Parent must make family limits on technology: You are the parent. You make the rules. This is one of the beauties of being a parent, and I encourage you not to give in no matter how much your child my whine or complain. However, you must understand that the same rules have to apply to you as well because you are laying the foundation for your child’s future actions. Not only do you have to talk the talk, you have to walk the walk as well. Fun Right?
4. Find ways to use time other than computers or TV: Your children want your attention even though they act like the do not 98% of the time. Find ways to spend time together as a family. These do not have to be expensive outings, but could be something as simple as an afternoon at the park together. Quality family time is quickly disappearing in our society, and children need to understand that relationships are more than just being “friends” with someone on Facebook. Pry them away from the XBOX and teach them to interact with people face to face.
5. DON’T GO OVERBOARD WITH IT: Do not send your home back to the dark ages for fear of the evils that technologies can bring! Find a way to keep the good while eliminating the bad. No need to toss the family computer out the window or flush the cell phone down the toilet. Find a way to teach our youth balance and responsibility when it comes to media and technology.

Technology can be one of the greatest blessings in our lives, but it can also be one of the most damaging influences we have. People spend more time in front of and on the computer than they ever have before. They are integrated into our work and now have taken over our home. With some planning, we can prevent any issues that may arise.