Our lesson this week came from the Gospel Library app under the Missionary category, “Safeguards for Using Technology.” I asked each family member to teach one of the safeguards, then we listed three goals we will work on this week.
This guide is awesome! It is so wise and concise. Here are a few of our favorite quotes:
Turn on your device only after your intention is clear. Before turning on your mobile device or computer or opening an app, determine … what you will be doing. Consider the amount of time you will take and how these activities will lead to helping people …. (Safeguard 2)
Limit the use of technology when you are feeling bored, lonely, angry, anxious, stressed, or tired, or when you feel any other emotion that makes you vulnerable or susceptible. (Safeguard 2)
Experience has shown that people are more likely to encounter inappropriate content on the Internet when they are casually surfing the web without a specific purpose in mind. (Safeguard 2)
All missionaries experience weaknesses and feelings of vulnerability. Instead of hiding or ignoring these feelings, honestly acknowledge them in order to help yourself choose a better response and overcome temptation. (Safeguard 3)
Learn to recognize patterns in your thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that make it difficult for you to use technology righteously. You can avoid temptation by avoiding these patterns. (Safeguard 3)
Avoid checking or sending messages during sacrament meetings, ward council, or missionary training meetings (Safeguard 3)
Develop the discipline to use your mobile device only when it is appropriate to do so. When you are talking face-to-face with people, do not check messages or answer calls. Take control of how you use these tools. Do not let them control you. (Safeguard 3)
“Handheld devices, such as smartphones, are a blessing, but they can also distract us from hearing the ‘still, small voice.’ They need to be our servants, not our masters” -Elder M. Russell Ballard. (Safeguard 3)
Never use your device when you are alone. (Safeguard 4)
Remember, nearly all challenges associated with the Internet or with pornography happen in isolation. (Safeguard 4)