Cell Phones Signaling Concerns

The most alarming concern is that pornography is now the leading addiction in America. Once limited to behind-the-counter magazine stands, porn became more accessible with the advent of the internet. Then smartphones made it ubiquitous. A simple Google search and even social media deliver it right to your pocket.

In another alarming study, evangelical women stated that social media was more harmful to their faith than helpful. They claim that the platforms are “loaded with harmful, dangerous, worldly content.” Still, 54% admitted to using it anyway.

Other concerning studies reveal a decline in reading and excitement for learning among youth. Once young people have phones, they generally stop reading. They use ChatGPT to summarize books they’re assigned to read for school. Teens even admit to using subtitles on TV so they can stay glued to their phones during a movie—and they avoid theaters because their attention spans are too short.

As salt and light, believers must practice prayerful, biblical discernment in all areas, including how we use our phones. Here are a few questions to help you discern best practices for you and your family:

• What will you allow on your phones?
• How long will you spend on them?
• How much time should your children spend on them?
• What safeguards can you put in place?
• Is your daily use honoring and stewarding the time God has given you?
• Is your daily use edifying you and your family?