4,000. That’s a pretty hefty number.
Say it with me-FOUR THOUSAND.
Believe it or not that is the average number of text messages a typical teenager sends and recieves on a monthly basis. I was able to find this number by a quick survey of some of the kids in the youth ministry. I’m sure that is even a conservative rate, knowing some teenagers and the amount of time they spend on those things they call phones. (Even though I’m not too sure why they are called that anymore-no one does any talking on them anymore…)
Let’s unpack this fact just a little more. 4,000 text messages translates to over 130 messages in a day. Let’s break it down even further. Knowing that the average teenager is awake around 15 hours a day, that translates into almost nine texts an hour or a text every 7 minutes. Now, keep in mind I’m being very conservative, but still the numbers are very significant. (I didn’t even account for when they are in school and really can’t use text messaging)
These teenagers are trying to reach out, to the tune of over 130 times a day. They are trying to find connection, relationship. But are these relationships trully fulfilling? Weren’t we created to reach out in more personal ways?
Truth is, we are. We are meant to interact with with one another in a more personal way. We are meant to exist together in community, side by side, having true communication. Don’t we all need to work at that? Are we reaching out that many times a day? Are we trying to connect with those around us? Are we trying to connect with God that many times? I’m going to be asking the students in the Youth Ministry that very question. Along with that, I’m going to be asking myself that very same question.
My plea and my prayer is that you are asking yourself that question as well. In addition I hope that you are asking the students in your life that as well. I hope that you will join me in trying to help them not only connect with the Lord but with those people that will encourage them and help them to grow in their faith.
