In ancient times, people longed for news from afar. It could be weeks or months before you learned that your loved one was safe, crops had failed, or a war had ended. How times have changed! In our own day, we suffer (and that is the right word) from a glut of information.
The problem is four-fold. First, there is much more data than we can process or thoughtfully assimilate. Second, much of the information is contradictory or unverifiable. Third, some of the information is purposefully wrong, twisted by wacky ideologies. And finally, the lure of irrelevant faraway news can distract us from our responsibilities.
How do we meet this challenge? Let me suggest four things:
Renounce Omniscience Obsession. God alone knows all things, but the Internet tempts fallen humans to feel that we do. For an unapologetic news junkie, information can become an ego-enhancing drug.
Require Reasonable Research. Confirmation bias causes us to hear only one side of an issue, overlooking the weakness in our story and spotting flaws in theirs. Listen and read widely and check sources carefully.
Reject Feckless Forwarding. The Internet is the new backyard fence, where it’s easy to pass along what’s juicy. Before you hit “send” or “post,” count to ten and ask, “Will this pass the Philippians 4:8 test?”
Remember Needs Nearby. The young man from Topeka seeking a bride from Ukraine may overlook the winsome, admiring girl next door. We can so connect with the world that we detach from those nearest us.
Jesus’ words from Luke 12:48 apply here: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded.” May we be good stewards of this abundance of information to the profit of all those around us.
“Father, help us employ the Internet and all technology
for your glory and our good. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”