‘Tell me what you eat and I  will tell you what you are’

Anthelme Brillat-Savarin wrote this in his book Physiologie du Gout, ou Meditations de Gastronomie Transcendante. 

He goes on in the book to explain how there is deep connection between our dietary choices in our beliefs and who we are.

Just as our food choices shape our physical health, our digital diet shapes our mental health, identity, and relationships. 

“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Paul in his letter to Corinth states what you put into your body (and by extension, your mind) should honor God, because your body is His temple.

Individually or together, they call for intentional stewardship over what we consume—whether food, media, or digital content.

So, we all should ask ourselves:

“What are you feeding your mind each day through screens, apps, and media?”

If I were to constantly consume a diet of sugary foods, sodas etc. there is a strong likelihood that I am going to develop diabetes, kidney issues, etc. Whereas a diet of balance meals, and proper portions I am going not have those issues. 

Same goes for screen time.

Practical Exercise

1. Write down what they “consume” digitally in an average day (TikTok, YouTube, texting, games, etc.).
2. Compare it to a food diet—junk food vs. nourishing meals. 
3. Which parts are healthy? 
4. Which are harmful in excess?

In summary

• Healthy eating is about moderation, boundaries, and balance. The same is true for digital consumption.

• Take time to intentionally “curate” you or or child’s digital intake the way they would with meals.

If the content and apps we are consuming are not building you up and providing true positive value, should we really be utilizing them?

“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor. So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭23‬-‭24‬, ‭31‬ ‭ESV‬‬