Last year, artificial intelligence was still in its nascent stages, and many were hesitant about it. And those who adopted AI did so sparingly–to generate ideas or refine their content.
But this year, AI-generated content is everywhere–from images and videos to emails and LinkedIn posts! People I've followed for years on social media are suddenly churning out content that does not match their voice or the online identity they've established.
Don't get me wrong. I love tools that help us work smarter. I am all for productivity hacks that save our time and free our schedule for the things that make our lives more meaningful. Yet, I wonder if our collective progressive reliance on artificial intelligence leaves any room for plain old authenticity.
Have we become air-brushed, polished versions of who we truly are? Not just on social media, but even in real life? Do we have space to voice our real thoughts and share our unfiltered selves, as grainy as they may be?
Technology has proved to be vital in helping us share the gospel message on a global scale. And some of the online content we consume really does help our walk with the Lord. But I am more convinced than ever that our real life needs to trump the screens we tend to get lost in for hours each day.
We should be mindful of the content we consume online (I’m speaking to myself here!). I believe what Paul told the first-century Christians in Philippians 4:8 applies to us in this AI era as well.
Are the reels we scroll through and the content we repost true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy?
When companies spend billions to create algorithms that keep us glued to the screen, being aware of our social media usage is easier said than done. Ever picked up the phone to just unwind for a few minutes and ended up scrolling through a never-ending loop of mindless content? Before we know it, we're watching someone we don’t know, doing something we’re barely interested in, keeping us from what we actually need to be doing in real life!
In this age of AI, what would it look like to pursue what’s authentic? How can we live intentionally with a focus on fulfilling God’s mission in the world?
Here are three simple ways we can prioritize what's real over what's virtual.
Although I love the Bible app and the ability to cross-reference verses online, I've decided to read my actual Bible first thing in the morning. Any other Bible-related content I consume on a screen is additional garnish, not the main course.
I've also started maintaining physical journals–to note down prayer requests and document what I'm learning.
A side effect of scrolling the screen is decreased attention on everything else in the real world. If I find myself skimming verses in the Bible, I force myself to stop and read through the passage again. Bible reading has become more about deeper examination than superficial glances.
I’m also appreciating the simple practices of savouring a cup of coffee without a screen and pausing to appreciate the beauty of nature.
It is indeed so much better to connect with real people than follow strangers' lives online. As an introvert, I learnt the hard way that I reap what I sow into relationships. Be it my immediate family or a larger circle of friends, it is only when we take the time to talk and listen, reach out and pray that we build meaningful relationships.
Quick catch-ups over chai, laughs shared in the church canteen, and deep discussions over pizza are so much more meaningful than mindless chatter on the internet.
In the digital age, it has become more imperative that we prioritize what’s tangible – what we can touch, feel, and experience. I believe that with a little effort, we can be intentional about the time we spend online so that it will benefit our real life.
I’d love to know your thoughts. What do you think about the increased usage of AI in our world today? How do you plan to pursue what’s real over what’s virtual?
Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
