We live in a world of constant connection. Yet we are so disconnected.

We scroll through Instagram telling ourselves that we're doing it to connect with people. But in reality, we compare more than anything else. We compare the number of likes, the followers, the picture quality, the friends.

We find our identity in something so unimportant. The number of likes, shares, and follows means more to us than we'd ever care to admit to people. It's addicting to get hooked onto a cycle of wondering if we're good enough, comparing our pictures to others, having a decent caption. We subconsciously place value on something so intangible and unimportant.

So we filter our pictures on Instagram, much like we try to filter our lives on social media. We put the most filtered, happiest, moments for everyone to see. But we take everyone's happiest moments and compare them to our dullest moments. Because, let's face it, my life is mostly mundane. (Cue me scrolling through Instagram as I'm studying for finals.) I go to class, eat, study, repeat. In a world of constant motion and connection, it's easy to become discontent.

In the long run, social media serves as a distraction. It distracts us from the people sitting across from us at the dinner table. It distracts us from our studies. It distracts us from seeing the beautiful scenery in front of us while we're busy double tapping the nature pics on Instagram.

My challenge is to invest in the people around you. It's simple yet hard all at the same time. Sometimes it's a good idea to put your phone on silent. Even leave it at home if you can. But the world is so much more than the number of likes you get on that picture from last night. In the end, the friend across the table from you has an opinion and feelings, unlike your phone.

We live in a world of constant connection. But don't let it hinder you from what really matters.

http://www.desiringgod.org/articles/smartphone-add...