There is no denying that over the past 10 years, the internet has changed the face of communication. Much good has come from our online communities and social networks; we are more connected to family and friends than ever before. It’s the reason that I decided to create The Homeschool Lounge, many moms were missing support and connection within their own communities. Social media and online social networks can be a blessing.
However, I worry that online communication, texting and email are taking the place of our real life relationships.
Is Technology Replacing True Fellowship?
It’s very evident to me when I join girlfriends for dinner, or when I meet a friend for coffee, that we need this type of fellowship. God created us for relationships, for face-to-face communication, for the breaking of bread, for laughing with friends until we’re in tears.
As special and treasured as our online friendships are, they often can not replace real-life fellowship. Nothing can replace the loving arms of a friend, a hug is truly worth a thousand words. We can not take for granted the blessing of being able to hold a friends hand in prayer or simply to hold a friend that is hurting.
Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9–12
We are busy, with full plates, online communication is convenient, I get that. But we were made for more.
Should our emotions and our conversations be reduced to Likes, Dislikes and 140 characters? There are times when we need to get away from technology to nurture real-life relationships.
If you have been missing out on real-life fellowship with friends and family due to online activity, don’t fret!
I challenge you to pick up the phone the next time you go to text, open up an hour in your schedule to meet with a friend who can use a listening ear or invite friends over for dinner. While we should be thankful for today’s technology, we should also be mindful to nurture, and not take for granted, the relationships God has prepared for us outside of our computers and gadgets.
In His Grip,
Tiany – SocialSavvyMom.com
