Living a Life of Holiness in the Digital Age

Holiness is not a suggestion; it's a command. In 1 Peter 1:15-16, we read, "But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'" In the digital age, this command extends beyond our physical actions to our digital lives. As technology continues to shape how we live, work, and interact, we must consider how to pursue holiness in a world increasingly dominated by screens and digital connections.

1. Understanding Holiness in the Digital Context

To live a life of holiness, we must first understand what holiness means. Biblically, holiness entails being set apart for God, living in a manner that reflects His character. It involves moral purity, love, justice, and a commitment to God's standards. In the digital realm, this means using technology in ways that honor God, align with His commands, and reflect His righteousness. We must guard our hearts and minds, even when engaging in the digital world, where temptation often lurks just a click away.

2. Guarding Our Hearts and Minds Online

Proverbs 4:23 urges us to "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life." In the digital age, this vigilance is critical. The internet is full of potential stumbling blocks—lust, envy, pride, and distraction. To live a holy life digitally, we must be proactive in guarding our hearts and minds:

• Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries for digital consumption. Use filters and accountability software to guard against inappropriate content. Remember, Jesus said that even looking with lust is committing adultery in the heart (Matthew 5:28). Thus, setting up digital safeguards is not legalism; it's wisdom.

• Mind Your Input: Philippians 4:8 instructs us to think about whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable. This guideline applies to our digital intake. Choose to consume media and content that uplifts, encourages, and draws you closer to Christ. Avoid platforms and content that provoke sinful desires, whether they be lust, covetousness, or pride.

3. Pursuing Holiness in Digital Communication

Ephesians 4:29 says, "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up." In our digital communications—be it social media posts, comments, or private messages—we should reflect Christ's love and truth. Here are ways to pursue holiness in our digital interactions:

• Speak the Truth in Love: The digital world often promotes unfiltered expression, leading to arguments, slander, and hurtful words. As Christians, our digital speech should be seasoned with grace, aiming to build others up (Colossians 4:6). This doesn't mean avoiding hard truths but rather speaking them with a spirit of love and gentleness.

• Practice Discernment: Not every digital conversation or debate is worth engaging in. Proverbs 26:4 advises not to answer a fool according to his folly, lest we become like him. Discern when to engage and when to step back. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to navigate these situations with wisdom.

4. Avoiding Digital Idolatry

Holiness means worshiping God alone. In our digital age, it's easy to fall into the trap of digital idolatry—allowing our devices, social media, or the internet to consume our hearts and minds. We must remember that our value and identity are found in Christ, not in likes, shares, or digital recognition:

• Set Time Limits: Limit your time on digital platforms. It's easy for smartphones and social media to consume hours of our day. Schedule regular digital "fasts" to refocus on God, His Word, and your relationships with others.

• Seek First the Kingdom: Matthew 6:33 instructs us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Prioritize spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship over digital distractions. Let your digital use be an overflow of a life grounded in Christ, not a replacement for it.

5. Using Technology for God's Glory

Living a holy life digitally doesn't mean avoiding technology altogether; it means using it for God's glory. Leverage technology as a tool for spreading the gospel, encouraging others, and growing in your faith. Engage with edifying content—sermons, Christian podcasts, Bible study apps—and use social media as a platform to share the hope and love of Christ.

6. Cultivating Accountability and Community

Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us to "consider how to stir up one another to love and good works." In the digital age, this involves cultivating accountability and community. Surround yourself with other believers who can hold you accountable for your digital habits and encourage you toward holiness. Use technology to foster genuine community rather than shallow interactions.

Conclusion: Holiness in Every Aspect of Life

Living a life of holiness is an all-encompassing call that includes how we navigate the digital world. We must be intentional, setting our minds on things above (Colossians 3:2) and using technology in ways that reflect God's holiness. In doing so, we become a light in the digital darkness, pointing others to the One who is the source of all true holiness. As we pursue a life set apart for God, both offline and online, may our digital lives testify to the transformative power of the gospel.