I feel weary. Hot, cranky and thirsty for something other than swamp water.
You too? Discouraged about the state of our democracy if you live in the U.S.? Tempted to move to Australia? Nervous about the direction the conversation will take when you’re out at dinner with friends? Longing for Jesus to bring peace and understanding?
We’re all desperate – thirsty for something other than uncertainty, tension, anxiety-producing news and social media rants.
I love the way Cary Neuwhoff states it. We need to “Drink from a deeper well.”
In order to drink from a deeper well, maybe we have to drink less from the brackish, contaminated streams of of culture, and more from the Living Water.
But what does that mean, practically??!!! Here are a few ideas:
1. Unfollow social media accounts that bring out resentment or discouragement in you.
No, I’m NOT advocating “cancel culture”. It’s important to listen to voices with different perspectives from us, but there are also those who are unhealthy for our soul.
You can also turn on notifications for those accounts that inspire or encourage you. Or star them as favorites.
2. Limit news consumption – both the amount of time you spend and who you listen to.
“What percentage of your thoughts are a regurgitation of the the news you’re watching or the social media you’re following, and what percentage of your thoughts are a revelation from the Word of God?”
Mark batterson
It’s so tempting to listen to the news that reinforces our bias. Maybe reconsider your news source?
3. Stop multi-tasking God.
Holy buckets I’m guilty of this! I love being productive – like texting a friend while I’m microwaving a burrito and checking the mail. Here’s a suggestion:
Turn off any noise. Put your phone and laptop in another room (your kids too! Check out this suggestion!)
Read all of Psalm 46. Go on! I’ll wait while you do it.
Now just take verse 10.
Be still and know that I am God
Psalm 46:10
Read the whole sentence and then pause.
Next read the verse leaving out the last word. Pause and reflect on that.
Keep reading the verse, omitting another word from the end and pausing to reflect, until you’re only saying one word: BE.
What suggestions would you add? We will all benefit from your wisdom if you post in the comments below!
Loved this post. It’s all so true. Thanks!
Wow, Laura, your posts are always terrific but this one is spot on an 11+! I deleted my one social media account 1.5 years ago. I couldn’t take the posts and comments anymore. I worried, was nervous, fearful of the violence happening and the words people used made my heart ache and affected my sleep. I am a nurse and dealing with the pandemic was enough of a stress to add to normal daily life. It wasn’t what God wanted for me I’m sure. Haven’t missed it since. If I need a picture of someone’s kiddo, I just ask them to text one. My brain is back to my usual self of finding adventure, fun and purpose in my day and I find myself to be more present. Good for you for saying it straight.
So happy to hear you made this choice that has been so healthy for you! And thank you, thank you for your service in such a crucial time as a nurse!