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Elder David A. Bednar of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints addressed young adults in a live Instagram broadcast on October 23, 2024, emphasizing the positive use of technology. He highlighted that digital devices are neutral tools and their impact depends on how they are used.
“These digital devices are tools; they are neither good nor bad. It depends on how we use them,” said Elder Bednar, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The broadcast was held from his office in Salt Lake City, where he interacted with eight young adults from Brigham Young University–Idaho.
Elder Bednar's message is part of ongoing discussions about technology's role in daily life. He encouraged viewers to prepare for his upcoming address titled “Things as They Are 2.0” during the Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults on November 3. This address will revisit themes from a speech he delivered in 2009 concerning digital technology's influence.
He urged young adults to engage with resources like Gospel Library and other Church materials available through technology, stating that faith comes from studying God's word. Elder Bednar advised against unproductive activities such as “mindlessly scrolling or playing ‘goofy video games’” and instead suggested utilizing technology to access valuable information.
Elder Bednar warned against Satan’s tactics to divert individuals from righteous actions through distraction. He recommended using the spirit of discernment and conducting research to validate information encountered online.
When discussing personal technology use, Elder Bednar shared that he and his wife, Susan, communicate via text and enjoy discussing religious lessons together on their tablets. They also utilize Zoom to stay connected with family while traveling.
To assist others struggling with distractions or misinformation, Elder Bednar emphasized the importance of spiritual discernment through the Holy Ghost. He concluded by affirming his belief in divine guidance: “I can testify that the Lord will guide you.”
The November 3 devotional will be broadcast globally in more than 20 languages from BYU–Idaho's campus.
