Why We Love Our Phones Too Much: A Longing for Connection

This one is a tough question to answer, because it's very humbling to realize that many of us spend way too much time on our phones. With the advent of the iPhone and other smartphones, interpersonal connection has given way (somewhat) to connection online. It used to be that one had to log onto the internet via the computer, and the internet was dial-up. Getting connected took some time. Plus, you had to physically sit in front of your computer screen, so one usually set aside time to do that. Nowadays, you can literally get on the internet at any time, and many are on it constantly via their phones. You can be online in your car (which can be dangerous). You can be online in your bathroom, on the toilet! Many people look at their phones first thing in the morning, when they wake up. It is also the last interaction they have when they go to sleep at night. If that is not an addiction, I don't know what is! I myself am guilty of this as well, so I'm definitely not condemning anyone... just pointing out something that most of us (myself included) should probably work on!

Today I've been pondering why we as a society have grown to love our phones so much. Perhaps too much. Facebook and Instagram are by far some of the most-used social platforms today, and most people use them on their phones. These platforms are, in a basic sense, a way to connect to others. You post a photo or status update, and people you know (or in some cases, total strangers) comment on your content. It's a way to feel connected to others, is it not? We may not always think of it in such basic terms, but it's also a way to get attention. Each person in this world is crying out for personal connection to others. We are all crying out for attention and love. When our phones ding, we get the sense that someone else cares about us. We are important and valued. But with all this focus on checking our phones constantly, are we giving too much attention to a device, and not enough to the people who are actually physically around us?

I think many people are starting to realize that we do need to get back to genuine connection, in-person, with others. Scheduling a coffee date with your spouse or a friend, or going out to dinner with your parents or in-laws is a great way to get genuinely connected. Fellowship with other believers at church is so needed, if at all possible, even though watching church from home is great if you are physically impaired or have fallen ill for a time. Using social media to post your thoughts or highlights from your life is definitely a bonus, but shouldn't be the main focus.

Yesterday afternoon, I went to the park with my kids and husband. We walked along a beautiful trail and I observed some gorgeous hydrangeas and other flowers that God created. It was such a peaceful time of reflection for me. Walking along that trail and just meditating on the love of God and all the beauty He has surrounded us with, made me realize that I need to get into nature more often. Reflecting on the Lord is so needed in the midst our day-to-day hustle and bustle. Spending time in nature provides something that staring at a screen just can't give you, which is serenity and peace of mind, as you meditate on God's goodness found in the beauty that He's created.

Have you ever considered that perhaps the reason why you're looking for so much validation from people online, is because you're longing for a deeper connection with the One who created you? God loves you so much and He knows you intimately. He created you and wants to have a personal relationship with you that is real and meaningful. He sent Jesus Christ to die for your sins, and if you will accept His gift of salvation, He will give your life purpose and meaning and you can be with Him in heaven someday! That's way better than anything an online app or social platform can provide! Connect with the Lord today through prayer and by studying the Bible, his love letter to your heart. Ask me how in the comments! Take a moment to read through the Scriptures today and you'll find your soul feeling refreshed and at peace. Then, connecting with others is a blessing and a bonus, but not something you desperately need to feel OK! True, unconditional love and validation can only come from Christ! Blessings to you.