Does watching videos about God count as spending time with Him?

In our modern world, the ways in which we consume information and engage with content have evolved dramatically. With the advent of the internet and digital media, we are now able to access videos, podcasts, and other forms of content that focus on God, faith, and spirituality. This raises an important question: does watching videos about God count as spending time with Him?

To answer this question, we must first understand what it means to spend time with God. In the Christian tradition, spending time with God is often associated with practices such as prayer, reading the Bible, worship, and meditation. These practices are deeply personal and involve a direct engagement with God. They are ways in which we open our hearts and minds to His presence, seek His guidance, and grow in our relationship with Him.

Watching videos about God can certainly be a valuable and enriching activity. These videos can provide us with insights into Scripture, inspire us with stories of faith, and teach us about various aspects of Christian living. They can serve as a supplement to our spiritual practices, helping us to deepen our understanding of God and His Word. However, it is important to recognize that watching videos about God is not the same as directly engaging with Him.

Consider the analogy of a relationship with a close friend or family member. Spending time with them involves direct interaction—talking, listening, and sharing experiences. Watching a video about them, while informative and perhaps even inspiring, does not substitute for that direct interaction. Similarly, while videos about God can enhance our knowledge and inspire our faith, they do not replace the personal and direct engagement that is central to our relationship with Him.

The Bible offers numerous examples of how individuals spent time with God. For instance, in Psalm 63:1, David writes, "You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water." This verse reflects a deep yearning for God's presence, a desire to seek Him earnestly and wholeheartedly. This kind of seeking involves more than just passive consumption of information; it requires active engagement and a personal connection.

In the New Testament, we see Jesus modeling a life of intimate communion with the Father. In Mark 1:35, we read, "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed." Jesus prioritized spending time alone with God in prayer, seeking His guidance and strength. This example highlights the importance of setting aside dedicated time for direct communication with God.

That being said, watching videos about God can certainly be a meaningful part of our spiritual journey. These videos can serve as a form of teaching and inspiration, helping us to grow in our knowledge and understanding of God. They can also provide a sense of community, as we connect with others who share our faith and values. However, it is essential to balance this with personal practices that involve direct engagement with God.

One way to incorporate videos about God into our spiritual routine is to use them as a starting point for deeper reflection and prayer. For example, after watching a video on a particular biblical passage or theme, we can spend time meditating on that passage, asking God to reveal His truth to us and applying it to our lives. This approach allows us to move beyond passive consumption to active engagement with God.

Additionally, we can use videos as a tool for communal worship and study. Watching a video together with family, friends, or a small group can spark meaningful discussions and provide opportunities for collective prayer and reflection. This communal aspect can enrich our spiritual experience and help us to grow in our faith together.

It is also important to be discerning about the content we consume. Not all videos about God are created equal, and some may contain theological inaccuracies or promote ideas that are not in line with biblical teaching. As we watch these videos, we should always compare what we hear with Scripture, asking the Holy Spirit for discernment and wisdom.

In his book "Celebration of Discipline," Richard Foster emphasizes the importance of spiritual disciplines in our walk with God. He writes, "The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, or gifted people, but for deep people." Foster's words remind us that depth in our relationship with God comes from intentional practices that draw us closer to Him. While videos can be a helpful resource, they should not replace the foundational disciplines of prayer, Bible study, and worship.

In conclusion, watching videos about God can be a valuable and enriching activity that enhances our spiritual growth. However, it should not be seen as a substitute for direct engagement with God through personal practices such as prayer, Bible reading, and worship. By incorporating videos into our spiritual routine in a thoughtful and discerning way, we can use them as a tool for learning and inspiration while prioritizing our personal relationship with God. As we seek to grow in our faith, let us remember the words of James 4:8, "Come near to God and he will come near to you."