Conveniences of technology cannot replace the influence of the Holy Ghost and fulfilling one's duty, Elder Scott D. Whiting, member of the Fifth Quorum of the Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said during Tuesday's devotional.
"It is important to recognize that digital detachment is an impediment to receiving personal revelation. The supposed need to constantly be 'plugged in' can drown out the quiet whisperings and subtle impressions of the Holy Spirit." Whiting said hearing those promptings, rather than other influences, is crucial.
"Every major decision I have made in my life, and many more minor decisions, have been as a result of promptings I have felt from the Holy Ghost."
In today's fast-paced, technologically-drenched world, Latter-day Saints cannot 'point and click' for a relationship with God, Whiting continued. Instead, he suggested, "perhaps the most productive 'point and click' application is that of pointing our finger at the power button and clicking these devices off."
Whiting defined what he called "digital detachment" as the loss of personal connectivity with God. "I have found that there is a direct correlation between the interactivity of the media and the inactivity of the young men and women of the Church."
"If we are seeking entertainment from our public and private…worship, then we are seeking after vain and foolish things and are truly missing the mark."
"Now, that is not to say that technological advancements are inherently bad or without merit," he continued. "With all such amazing technological developments there is a positive and a negative." Whiting mentioned Elder M. Russell Ballard's address given to December 2007 BYU-Hawaii grads to use the internet and blogs to contribute to a global conversation about the Church. "Modern technology...when purely and judiciously used, is a great tool that can…spread the gospel," Whiting stated.
In order to receive personal revelation, a person must be worthy and obedient to the laws of commandments of God, Whiting declared. He said that three steps must be then be followed: desire, ponder, pray.
Whiting concluded by emphasizing the importance of maintaining a sharp interest in worship rather than focus on technology: "We must guard against…being overly 'connected' to the point of weakening our connection with God and converting the sacred forms of worship we enjoy into 'boring,' low-tech routines."