Skype is a wonderful tool. Over the course of one weekend, I enjoyed three opportunities that, without the technology, would have been impossible. First, the kids and I skyped with most of my family. It was a blessing and a huge deal since we have recently moved to the other end of the US! It is a great joy to be able not only to hear a loved one but see them as well! Second, the board members of Search And See held a group skype for our annual meeting. A tremendous cost effective tool for non-profits! Much less expensive than hotel, travel, and meals required to hold a meeting! Third, and my FAVORITE, I skyped with two missionaries serving in Africa! As their pastor, I counted it a privilege to speak with them face to face, pray for them, seek to encourage them, and just let them know as their pastor, I care for them!

Technology can be very beneficial.

However, it can also be devastating, destructive, and dangerous. The advancement of technology has increased the opportunities to privately sin or hide ongoing sin to multiple proportions! You see the effects of this around you every day. Porn is just on click away. You can become another person, an alias, through social media. You can live a different life. You can say things on the keyboard you wouldn’t dare say in person. You can present yourself unrealistically as reality. You can maintain secrecy. You can set up false accounts. The list goes on and on. Pit after pit. Temptation after temptation. Ruin upon ruin.

Technology can be very dangerous.

How should the Christian respond?

1. Filter EVERYTHING through Christ! Philippians 4:8 is an excellent grid.
2. Don’t fool yourself - be accountable! The tools are available. Christian spouses and friends are available. Use the tools and allow your spouse and/or friends full access. Put up barriers.
3. Use every available means of technology to encourage the saints and proclaim the Gospel.
4. Stay in touch and keep healthy relationships with friends and family. We no longer have an excuse. God has given us multiple means in our day to stay connected.