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Disconnecting from Discontent

The past six months have been a whirlwind as I prepared for my sabbatical. During that time, I’ve been trying to tune out the noise of reading the news, scrolling through social media, and even listening to sports radio. It hasn’t been easy, but I realized that the constant negative input was weighing on me spiritually.

I had already stepped away from much of social media because of how differently people behave online compared to real life. But then it hit me: even the news, and the sarcasm and smack talk of sports radio, were stirring up frustration and pride in my heart. So for the past two months, I’ve only checked the news once a month—and then even skipped it on my spiritual birthday in April. That night, over dinner, my wife and daughter both said they’d noticed a difference in me: less ranting, more peace.

Now I’m sitting at the San Francisco airport, heading east for a seven-day solitude retreat on the Appalachian Trail. I’m a little nervous—rain is in the forecast, and I’ll miss the comforts of home. But I’m also eager to disconnect from the discontent and reconnect with God. There’s been some tension recently with my parents, brother, and sister and I just want to let go, trust God, and be still in His presence and seek his guidance. 

Thanks for keeping me in your prayers during this time. I’m trusting that while I unplug, God will keep working.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

—Isaiah 26:3