Why are we so distracted by technology when we are with people?

So often, technology distracts us and keeps us from being present when we are with people. Why do we reach for our phone so much?

It seems like the No. 1 thing to do when we are alone is reach for our phone. We’re checking email, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, texts. We get caught up in the black hole of looping through this process again and again.

We do it because we are bored, it is a habit or maybe we feel like there is nothing else to do. Some see it as a fun distraction. But is that all it is or has it become an obsession?

When I am obsessed with my phone, I don’t have to think, dream, reflect, meditate, pray, ponder or question. There is no time for any of these things because I have so much going on right at my fingertips.

Perhaps now more than ever, we struggle with the counsel of Psalm 46:10 to “Be still and know that I am God.”

The message paraphrase of Psalm 46:10 says it like this: “Step out of the traffic. Take a long, loving look at me, your high God, above politics, above everything.”

Why do we allow technology to rob us of stillness? Why do we allow ourselves to be distracted so much of the time? Maybe it is time to consider the relational legacy we want to leave behind.

The average adult spends four hours a day on their device. And yet, they spend 4 to 8 minutes a day in significant conversation with their spouse or children.

There is something wrong with that picture. Are you so busy trying to connect to the world around you that you have failed to connect with the world that is right in front of you?

Isn’t it interesting that people will readily admit to being addicted to their phones and laugh about it, but we typically don’t laugh about other addictions? Why is that? I wonder how it would change things if we saw this addiction as serious as any other.

I am convinced that powering down occasionally would be good for all of us. It might be good for our heart, mind, soul. It would reduce stress (maybe not at first). It would be great for relationships.

Technology can rob us of meaningful moments, of presence, of listening, of opportunities to validate and value the people that we love. It can rob us of happiness and opportunities to experience life together.

Steve Greene is the lead pastor of The Point in Seymour. Read his blog at pastorgreene.wordpress.com or email him at [email protected]. Send comments to [email protected].