Brothers and sisters, as we step deeper into the reality of a world dominated by technology, we’re not just users—we’re participants in an ongoing spiritual battle. The digital spaces we occupy are not neutral. They reflect what we choose to plant. But here’s the truth: just like a seed planted in the soil, what you cultivate in your online life will eventually bear fruit.

Many of us approach the online world casually, but the spiritual consequences are real. Today, we’re going to dive deeper. It’s time for us to start cultivating godliness in our digital lives. You are the farmer of your own spiritual field, and your smartphone, your social media, and your content are the soil.

Key Scripture: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will." — Romans 12:2

1. Your Online Presence is Your Digital Testimony

In the book of Matthew 7:16, Jesus says, “By their fruit you will recognize them.” What kind of fruit are you producing online? If someone were to scroll through your social media timeline, would they find a testimony that points to Christ or a life caught up in worldly pursuits?

We live in a time where people measure success by likes, shares, and followers. But in the kingdom of God, success is measured by obedience, faithfulness, and love. Your digital testimony should reflect a life that honors God. Remember, you are always representing Christ—whether it’s in person or online.

Colossians 3:17 says, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Your digital presence isn’t just for entertainment—it’s your mission field. Whether you're posting, commenting, or sharing, ask yourself: Is this drawing people to Christ or away from Him?

2. Technology is a Mirror of Our Hearts

Technology, like a recommender system, reflects what you engage with. It’s as if you’re constantly being followed by a digital mirror that shows your likes, your comments, and your conversations. What do your interactions say about you?

Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

What are you treasuring online? Is it the approval of people, or is it God's approval? Are you more concerned about impressing others with curated posts or making sure that your actions align with God’s truth? The truth is, your digital life can reveal a lot about where your heart truly is.

Maybe you’re spending hours scrolling through content that promotes lust, greed, or pride. Or perhaps you’re consumed by the need for validation through comments and likes. It's time to examine what you’re feeding your mind. If you're planting seeds of vanity, comparison, or deceit, don’t be surprised when that’s the fruit your life bears.

Romans 8:5 says, “Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.”

It’s time to shift our focus and set our hearts on things above.

3. How to Use Technology to Serve, Not to Be Served

Jesus told us in Matthew 20:28, "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." This is the model of leadership we are called to follow, even in the digital age. Instead of using technology to elevate ourselves, let's use it to serve others.

You don’t need to have a large following to make an impact. Your reach can be as simple as helping someone through a YouTube tutorial, sharing Bible verses to encourage others, or posting about what you learned in your time at church or UCC Bwaise.

The world will recognize the authenticity of your faith through your servanthood. When we use our platforms to serve others—whether through words of encouragement, sharing our testimony, or teaching a valuable skill—we reflect the heart of Jesus.

4. Don’t Fall for the Trap of Self-Righteousness

Brothers and sisters, in the last days, many will be deceived—not because of technology, but because of self-righteousness and spiritual blindness.

Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”

There are many people today who have fallen into the trap of using technology to criticize others or to spread fear. They’ll tell you that AI is the mark of the beast, or that innovation is evil, all while neglecting the real work that God is calling them to do in their own lives.

But before we start pointing fingers at others or condemning advancements in technology, let’s look within ourselves. Do we love others the way Christ called us to? Do we support our church, tithe, or help the needy? Or do we spend our time online tearing others down instead of building them up?

The Bible warns us in Matthew 7:3, “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?”

Before we call out others or condemn technology, we need to work on our own spiritual lives. God is not asking us to run from the world—He is asking us to be transformed within it.

5. We Are In the World, Not Of the World

Finally, brothers and sisters, let’s remember that though we are in the world, we are not of it. The Bible tells us in John 17:15-16, "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it."

We live in a world where technology will increasingly become part of the church’s mission. The future of the church and technology are not separate—they will become intertwined. But that doesn’t mean we conform to the patterns of this world. We are called to transform it.

Technology is a tool we can use for good, to spread the Gospel, to reach the lost, and to build up the body of Christ. The question is, will you use it to glorify God, or will you let it distract you from your purpose?

Ephesians 5:15-16 says, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."

Conclusion:

Brothers and sisters, the world will always try to influence us through its systems, but as youth, we are called to something higher. The message today is not just about technology—it’s about who you are becoming as you engage with the world. Technology is neutral, but your heart is not. The fruit you bear in your digital life is a reflection of what’s planted in your heart.

So, use your smartphone, your social media, and your influence to cultivate godliness. Let’s serve, not to be served. Let’s build others up, not tear them down. And let’s live with the kind of wisdom that sees the truth behind every new innovation—not falling for fear, but stepping into God’s will with courage and faith.

Closing Scripture: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." — Philippians 4:8