The Bible doesn't talk about smartphones, computers, or the internet because these things didn't exist when it was written. But Scripture gives us wisdom about how to use the tools and resources God gives us. These verses can guide us in using technology wisely, staying focused on what matters most, and making sure our gadgets help us instead of control us.
God Gave Us Creative Minds
Technology comes from human creativity and problem-solving. The Bible shows us that these abilities are gifts from God. He created us to be creative and to build things that make life better.
"The Lord has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts."
— Exodus 35:31-33
God gave Bezalel special skills to create beautiful things for the tabernacle. This shows that God values human creativity and skill. Just like Bezalel used his gifts to build something for God, we can use technology and innovation to serve God and help others.
"So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."
— Genesis 1:27
We are made in God's image. Since God is creative and makes things, we have that same ability. Every invention and tool we create comes from this gift God gave us. Technology is one way we reflect God's creative nature.
Using Our Resources Wisely
Technology is a tool and a resource. The Bible teaches us to be good stewards—people who manage resources well and use them the right way.
"Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God."
— Ecclesiastes 5:19
God gives us good things to enjoy, including the tools and technology we have today. The key is to use them with a thankful heart and remember they come from God. We should enjoy technology without letting it become more important than our relationship with God.
"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
— 1 Corinthians 10:31
This verse tells us that everything we do—including how we use technology—should bring glory to God. When we text, post on social media, or use our devices, we should ask ourselves: "Is this honoring God? Is this helping others? Is this making me a better person?"
Technology as a Tool, Not an Idol
The biggest danger with technology isn't the devices themselves. It's when they become so important that they take the place of God in our lives. If we can't go an hour without checking our phone, or if we feel anxious without our devices, technology might be controlling us instead of us controlling it.
The Bible warns against idols—anything we put before God. Technology can easily become an idol if we're not careful. We need to make sure that God stays first in our lives.
Wisdom in Communication
Much of today's technology is about communication—texting, email, social media, and video calls. The Bible has a lot to say about how we should communicate with others.
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
— Ephesians 4:29
This verse applies perfectly to our digital communication. Whether we're posting online, sending texts, or commenting on someone's post, our words should build people up, not tear them down. Technology gives us more ways to communicate, which means more opportunities to encourage others or hurt them. We need to choose wisely.
"The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."
— Proverbs 12:18
It's easy to say hurtful things online because we don't see the person's face. But mean comments and cyberbullying can hurt just as much as words said in person. Before we post or text, we should think: "Would I say this to someone's face? Will this help or hurt?"
Think Before You Post
Social media and messaging apps make it easy to share our thoughts instantly. But the Bible teaches us to be careful with our words.
"Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues."
— Proverbs 10:19
Just because we can post something doesn't mean we should. Sometimes the wisest choice is to stay quiet. Not every thought needs to be shared online. We should think carefully about what we post and whether it's truly helpful.
Managing Our Time
Technology can save us time, but it can also waste a lot of time. The Bible tells us to use our time wisely because life is short.
"Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."
— Ephesians 5:15-16
God wants us to make good use of our time. Scrolling through social media for hours or playing games all day might feel relaxing, but we need to ask ourselves if we're wasting the time God has given us. We should use technology in ways that help us grow and serve others, not just as an escape.
"Show me, Lord, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is."
— Psalm 39:4
David asks God to help him remember that life is short. When we realize how precious time is, we make better choices about how we spend it. This includes how much time we give to our devices and screens.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
The Bible doesn't say "don't use technology," but it does teach us about self-control and balance. Here are some ways to use technology wisely:
Put your phone away during family meals and conversations. Set time limits on apps and games. Don't check your phone first thing in the morning—spend time with God first. Take regular breaks from screens. Remember that real relationships matter more than online likes and followers.
Seeking Truth in Information
The internet gives us access to more information than ever before. But not everything we read online is true. The Bible teaches us to seek wisdom and test what we hear.
"The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps."
— Proverbs 14:15
We shouldn't believe everything we see on social media or read online. Smart people think carefully about what they hear and check if it's true. We need to question information and look for reliable sources instead of just accepting whatever pops up on our screen.
"Test everything; hold fast what is good."
— 1 Thessalonians 5:21
This verse tells us to examine things carefully before accepting them as true. With so much false information online, we need to be extra careful. We should compare what we read with Scripture and think critically about the content we consume.
Technology and Relationships
Technology can connect us with people far away, but it can also disconnect us from the people right in front of us. The Bible shows us that real, face-to-face relationships matter most.
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up."
— Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
God designed us to need each other. While technology can help us stay connected, it can't replace being there in person. Online friends are nice, but we also need people we can actually spend time with, pray with, and lean on when life gets hard.
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
— Hebrews 10:24-25
The early church gathered together in person. While watching church online can be helpful sometimes, it's not a substitute for gathering with other believers. Technology should help us connect with our church community, not replace actually going to church and building real relationships.
Practical Application for Today
How can we use technology in a way that honors God? Here are some biblical principles to guide us:
- Put God first: Start your day with prayer and Bible reading, not by checking your phone. Make sure God has the first part of your attention, not the leftovers.
- Use technology to serve others: Send encouraging messages, share helpful information, and use your devices to spread kindness and truth.
- Practice self-control: Set limits on screen time. Don't let technology control you. Remember that you're in charge of your devices, not the other way around.
- Guard your heart and mind: Be careful about what you watch, read, and listen to online. Fill your mind with things that are good, pure, and true.
- Choose real relationships: Don't let online connections replace face-to-face friendships. Put your phone down when you're with people.
- Be wise with your words: Think before you post or text. Use technology to build people up, not tear them down.
A Biblical View of Progress
Technology and innovation aren't bad. They're gifts from God that can make our lives better and help us serve others more effectively. The problem comes when we use these gifts in the wrong way or let them become more important than God.
Christians should welcome helpful technology while staying rooted in biblical truth. We can use social media to encourage others, use video calls to stay close to family, and use educational apps to learn new things—all while keeping God at the center of our lives.
Conclusion
The Bible might not mention smartphones or computers, but it gives us clear wisdom about how to live well. These principles apply perfectly to how we use technology today.
Technology is a tool. Like any tool, it can be used for good or bad. We can use it to learn, connect with others, spread the Gospel, and make life better. Or we can use it in ways that waste time, hurt people, and pull us away from God.
The choice is ours. By following biblical principles of wisdom, self-control, good communication, and putting God first, we can enjoy the benefits of modern technology while avoiding the dangers. We can be people who use technology well—not people who are used by it.
Remember that no app or device can give us what we really need. Only God can satisfy our deepest needs for purpose, love, and meaning. Keep Him first, and use everything else—including technology—as a tool to serve Him and love others better.