Daily Parent Devotional: Leading by Example in Digital Spaces (March 3)

Hey there, parents.

It’s Sunday, March 3, 2026. If you’re like most of us, your morning probably started with a notification. Maybe it was an alarm on your phone, a calendar reminder, or a news alert. In our modern homes, the digital world isn't just something we "visit", it’s the atmosphere we breathe.

As parents, we spend a lot of time worrying about what our kids are doing online. We look for the best filters, we research the latest apps, and we try to stay one step ahead of the "next big thing." All of that is important. In fact, if you’re looking for a deep dive into those logistics, our Digital Safety 101 guide is a great place to start.

But today, let’s take a breath and look at something even more fundamental: our own digital habits.

The truth is, our children are world-class observers. They might not always listen to our lectures, but they never fail to imitate our behavior. When it comes to faith in a digital world, the most powerful sermon you will ever preach is the way you use your smartphone.

The Mirror of the Screen

Think about the last time you were deeply engaged with your phone. Were you smiling at a funny video? Scowling at a political post? Ignoring a question from your child because you were "just finishing an email"?

We’ve all been there. No judgment here, just a realization.

In the Assemblies of God tradition, we believe that the Scriptures are the inspired Word of God and our "all-sufficient rule for faith and practice." That doesn't just apply to how we act in a church building; it applies to how we act in a comment section or a group chat.

When we talk about leading by example, we’re following the mandate found in 1 Corinthians 11:1: "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ."

If your child were to "follow your example" in how they use social media, what would their digital life look like? Would it be filled with encouragement and grace, or would it be marked by distraction and comparison?

Real-Life Digital Discipleship

Leading by example doesn't mean being perfect. It means being intentional. It means showing our kids that our faith isn't a Sunday-only event, but something that guides us every time we pick up a device.

Here are a few ways we can model Christ-like behavior in our digital spaces today:

1. The Power of the "Pause"

We live in a culture of "instant." Instant replies, instant outrage, instant gratification. As Christian parents, we can model the fruit of the Spirit, specifically self-control, by practicing the pause.

Before you post that snarky reply to a relative or share a headline that makes your blood boil, take a second. Ask yourself: "Does this reflect the heart of Jesus?" When our kids see us put the phone down instead of engaging in a digital argument, we are teaching them more about peace than a hundred Sunday School lessons ever could.

2. Presence Over Pixels

Our kids need to know they are more important than our screens. One of the best ways to lead by example is to create "sacred spaces" where technology isn't allowed.

Maybe it’s the dinner table, or the first thirty minutes after you get home from work. When we intentionally look away from our screens to look into the eyes of our children, we are reflecting the way God looks at us, with undivided attention and love.

3. Using Tech for the Great Commission

At Boundless Online Church, we believe that the internet is the new "ends of the earth." One of our core beliefs (Fundamental Truth #10) is that the Church has a mission to seek and save all who are lost.

Show your kids how to use technology for good. Let them see you texting a friend a Bible verse or posting a prayer on our Prayer Wall. Invite them to watch our Sunday Live Worship with you. When they see technology as a tool for ministry rather than just a toy for entertainment, their entire perspective shifts.

The Bible as Our Digital Compass

It’s easy to feel like the Bible is "old" and the internet is "new," but the principles of God’s Word are timeless. One of the 16 Fundamental Truths we hold dear is that the Scriptures are the "rule of conduct."

When we navigate digital spaces, we aren't flying blind. We have a compass.

• Philippians 4:8 tells us to think about things that are true, noble, and right. That’s a great filter for our scrolling.

• Ephesians 4:29 tells us not to let any unwholesome talk come out of our mouths (or our keyboards).

• Matthew 5:16 tells us to let our light shine before others. That includes our digital light.

Teaching our children these truths is part of our daily calling. If you're looking for more ways to keep your family's focus on the Word, you can check out our Daily Parent Devotionals series for ongoing inspiration.

Practical Steps for Today

As you go through your day this March 3rd, try these three simple things:

1. Narrate your tech use. If you’re using your phone to check a Bible verse or send a supportive message, tell your kids. "Hey, I'm just sending a quick note to encourage Mrs. Smith from church." It helps them see the "why" behind the screen.

2. Ask for forgiveness. If your kids catch you being distracted by your phone when you should be listening, own it. "I'm sorry, I got distracted by this notification. You are more important to me than this phone. Let me put this away so I can hear what you're saying." This models humility and repentance.

3. Find a community. You aren't meant to do this alone. Join one of our online groups to connect with other parents who are trying to navigate these same waters.

Growing Together

Being a parent in 2026 is a wild ride. The technology changes every week, but the heart of our mission remains the same: helping our families meet Jesus and grow in faith.

We are so glad you are part of this community. Whether you are a long-time believer or a spiritual seeker just trying to figure things out, there is a place for you here. If you're new and want to find your footing, we have a simple plan to help you get plugged in fast.

Remember, you don't have to be a tech expert to be a great digital parent. You just have to be a follower of Jesus who is willing to let your kids watch you follow Him: online and off.

How are you feeling about your digital habits lately? What’s one small change you want to make this week? We’d love to hear from you and walk alongside you.

Boundless Online Church is a ministry of FA Memphis. We help people meet Jesus and grow in faith online.

Need prayer? Text 1-901-213-7341 (message & data rates may apply). Not for emergencies.