The internet may be a modern invention, but its effects on life and culture are significant. While the Bible was written long before the digital age, its principles on communication, information, and relationships can still apply. Let’s explore how biblical wisdom might guide our use of the internet.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About The Company You Keep
What Does The Bible Say About The Internet
Proverbs 16:9
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.”
This verse reminds us that ultimately, God is in control of our lives, including our use of the internet. While we may make plans and use the internet for various purposes, it is important to trust in God’s guidance and allow Him to establish our steps.
Whether we use the internet for work, education, entertainment, or connecting with others, we should seek to align our online activities with God’s will and purpose for our lives.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse reminds us that our actions, including how we use the internet, should ultimately bring glory to God. It encourages us to examine our motives and intentions behind the online activities we engage in.
When using the internet, we should strive to honor God in our interactions, content consumption, and contributions. This involves being mindful of the impact our online presence has on others and seeking to use the internet as a platform for sharing God’s love and truth.
Proverbs 18:15
“The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.”
This verse encourages us to approach the internet with discernment and wisdom. In a world filled with vast amounts of information, it is important to actively seek out knowledge and discern the truth from falsehood.
As we browse the internet, we should develop a discerning heart and use our wisdom to filter through the abundance of information available. This allows us to navigate the digital landscape with clarity and make informed decisions.
Psalm 101:3
“I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of guarding our hearts and minds when using the internet. It urges us to steer clear of immoral and faithless content that goes against God’s principles.
When online, we should consciously choose to avoid engaging with or endorsing anything that is vile, deceitful, or compromises our faith. By doing so, we maintain our integrity and protect our hearts from being influenced by ungodly influences.
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
This verse reminds us to use the internet as a tool for edification and encouragement. Our online interactions should be characterized by speech that is wholesome and beneficial to others.
By using the internet to uplift and support others, we can be a positive force in the digital space and contribute to the building up of the body of Christ. Let our words online reflect the love and grace of Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This verse reminds us of our role as ambassadors of Christ, even in the digital world. The internet provides us with a platform to shine the light of Christ to those around us.
Through our words, actions, and interactions online, we can reflect God’s love, grace, and truth. Let us use the internet as an opportunity to point others to the goodness and glory of our heavenly Father.
Colossians 3:17
“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.”
This verse reminds us that everything we do, including our online activities, should be done in the name of Jesus and with a spirit of thanksgiving.
As we navigate the digital world, let us strive to honor God in all aspects of our virtual lives. Whether we are posting, commenting, or consuming content, may it all be done to bring glory and praise to our Lord.
Philippians 4:8
“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.”
This verse serves as a guideline for our thought life, including our online thought patterns. It reminds us to focus on things that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.
In the midst of the vast content available on the internet, let us intentionally seek out that which aligns with these qualities. By doing so, we guard our hearts and minds from being led astray by the negative and harmful elements present online.
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of grounding our internet use in the truth of God’s Word. Just as a lamp guides our steps in darkness, the Word of God illuminates our path online.
When we face challenges, temptations, or uncertainties while using the internet, let us turn to the Scriptures for guidance and wisdom. God’s Word provides us with the light we need to navigate the digital world with discernment and righteousness.
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of safeguarding our hearts and minds when engaging with the internet. The state of our heart influences everything we do, including our online behavior.
As we go online, let us be vigilant in protecting our hearts from worldly influences, negative emotions, and harmful content. By keeping our hearts pure and focused on God, we can have a positive and godly impact in the digital realm.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
This verse serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle we face, even when using the internet. The devil seeks to exploit our vulnerabilities and lead us astray.
Therefore, let us remain vigilant and alert while online. We should be aware of the potential dangers and temptations that come with the digital world. Through prayer and reliance on God’s strength, we can resist the schemes of the enemy and walk in the truth.
Psalm 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.”
This verse encourages us to use the internet responsibly and with integrity. It reminds us to refrain from engaging in malicious or deceitful behavior online.
Our words hold power, both online and offline. Let us use the internet as an opportunity to uplift, encourage, and speak truth. By doing so, we honor God and maintain our witness as followers of Christ.
1 Timothy 6:11
“But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.”
This verse urges us to pursue godly virtues and flee from sinful behavior, including when using the internet.
As we browse the internet, let us seek righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. By doing so, we emulate Jesus and reflect His character in the digital realm.
2 Timothy 2:22
“Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of pursuing righteousness and avoiding the enticements of sinful desires, even in our internet use.
As followers of Christ, let us surround ourselves with fellow believers who share our desire for purity and righteousness online. Together, we can encourage one another to honor God in all aspects of our digital lives.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”
This verse reminds us to be mindful of our words and attitudes when engaging with others on the internet. It encourages us to be patient, listen attentively, and respond with grace.
In an age of instant communication and heated debates, let us strive to be peacemakers and ambassadors of love online. By practicing patience, humility, and restraint, we can foster healthy and respectful dialogue.
Proverbs 21:23
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.”
This verse emphasizes the consequences of our words, even in the digital realm. It encourages us to exercise self-control and be mindful of what we say online.
By guarding our words and using the internet responsibly, we can prevent unnecessary conflicts, misunderstandings, and harm. Let us choose our digital interactions wisely, speaking words that bring healing and life.
Proverbs 12:22
“The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of truthfulness and integrity in our online interactions.
As followers of Christ, let us commit to honesty and transparency in our digital lives. May our words and actions online reflect the character of God and bring delight to His heart.
Proverbs 22:17-18
“Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips.”
This verse encourages us to listen to the wisdom of others and apply it to our lives, even in the context of the internet.
As we engage with online content, let us seek out wisdom and discernment from trustworthy sources. By keeping the teachings of the wise in our hearts and minds, we can navigate the digital world with clarity and godly discernment.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
This verse provides guidance on our online communication. It encourages us to speak with grace and wisdom, using our words to build up and minister to others.
In our online interactions, let us season our speech with kindness, understanding, and humility. By doing so, we create an atmosphere of love and grace that draws others closer to God.
Matthew 5:37
“All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of honesty and sincerity in our online communication. It encourages us to be straightforward and avoid deception.
Let us be people of integrity, both online and offline. By practicing honesty and transparency, we reflect the character of our Lord and demonstrate our commitment to truth.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
This verse teaches us the power of using gentle and kind words, even in online interactions. It reminds us of the potential impact our words can have on others.
When faced with disagreements or conflicts online, let us respond with grace and gentleness. By choosing to diffuse tension and promote understanding, we mirror the love and compassion of Christ.
1 Corinthians 16:14
“Do everything in love.”
This verse serves as a general guideline for all aspects of our lives, including our online presence. It directs us to approach every action and interaction with love.
As we navigate the internet, let love be the motivation behind our words, posts, comments, and engagements. By extending love to others online, we fulfill the greatest commandment and bring honor to our Savior.