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Aug 27, 2022 08:00am

Connected in Greatness in Him

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“I decided to quit all my bad habits, then it occurred to be that nobody likes a quitter.” Anonymous

Habits absolutely shape us. A study by Duke University suggests that 40% of the actions we take every day are not the products of choices but of habits (“The Common Rule, Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction). One popular habit, or borderline addiction, is seeking a “connectedness” to others but on our terms. Stats projected for 2020 reveal that 90.4% of Millennials, 775% of Generation X, and 48.2% of Baby Boomers are active social media users equaling 3.5 billion social media users worldwide.

That’s enough connectedness to signal a common and perhaps cataclysmic need.

What are we searching for or afraid we will miss? In a world where digital screen time trumps face-to-face encounters (under the headings of convenience, comfort, and efficiency), are we truly following Christ’s example of growing in community by transparently sharing our authentic selves with all of our baggage and weaknesses? I’m not against digital opportunities to connect, but I believe it’s only one tool in the utility belt of a believer. The average screen user spends three hours a day on social sites and messaging. This would not be so sad if it weren’t for the fact that these habits are forming our hearts in addition to our schedules.

I think God has a better plan – and a game changer – in Jesus, the ultimate social and spiritual influencer! When we choose through salvation to become connected to the Most High, our spiritual vision isn’t lacking, and our need for validation comes through His family photos, not our posting. All that truly matters are His “likes” on our choices, habits, and schedules. It is in finding what we were made for that will create the habits that most please our Heavenly Father.

Romans 8:28 reminds us that we are called according to His design and purpose. Now that’s a resolution worthy of habit-forming on our earthly journey.