Social media has its good and negative benefits. One great advantage is it allows us to connect with others, all around the world, without ever leaving our homes. Through this platform, the Lord has blessed me to join several Christian groups or Prayer lines that have enriched my life. Last night, I was in one such meeting. Usually, I engage in the discussion, but this time I chose to listen.
Since the new year, something has been trending. People are spending so much time expressing their fears and anxieties. As I sat and listened, many spoke of their unfavorable views on the president. Most of those opinions touched me profoundly. As a result, I have placed myself on a spiritual retreat.
For the next 7 days, I am dedicating time with the Lord. However, this is not a normal retreat because I am not traveling anywhere. Instead, I am spending these next few days away from people. Yes, you heard me right, I am fasting away from people. I know - I have never heard of this either. But there is always a first time for everything. Besides, retreats are a time to get away to a tranquil place from one's daily routine to refresh and relax. And Christians long to be in the presence of the Lord as we reflect, pray, and study while sharing time with those with similar interests.
Fast Away from People
After listening to people's views on the president, I felt an urgency to fast away from anything that disrupts my peace. So, I will cherish these moments with the Lord. You may be asking how can I get away from people. Notice that I did not say I will not be around anybody. That would be impossible unless I go to a remote place where I am the only human. I am limiting the time I spend in the presence of people. Knowing what my friends enjoy, I will observe my phone calls. Besides, retreating helps me see things from a different perspective.
Even Jesus knew when to go into solitude and be alone with His Father. Much weighed on His heart, and throughout His ministry, Christ made time to get alone either to a garden, the wilderness, on the mountainside, or by the seaside. (Matthew 4:1-11; 14:23; Luke 5:15-16; Luke 6:12). He spent countless hours ministering the Word, healing the crowd, and dealing with the Pharisees and other religious leaders. Those moments He retreated to these quiet places; He received refreshment for the soul.
There is much happening in the world. And journalists spear us no mercy in reporting anything dreadful. They thrive on it as if it is nourishment for the soul. Dear One, I do not minimize anybody’s fears or worries. And I am sensitive to the opinions of others. However, there is more to talk about than a horrible incident, bad-mouthing Trump, engaging in negative conversations, gossip, or anything that leaves you discouraged. Bad things do happen every day, but guess what? Good things occur every day, too. Trending now, Christians are falling into despair because they magnify negative stuff instead of glorifying God.
Philippians 4:8, ESV encourages us to think about whatever is - Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Given that these are the most important issues to think about, what type of conversations should we engage ourselves in? I understand sometimes we need to vent, but, if every time you speak to someone, they bring up the same old awful situation, that is not healthy. This is somebody who thrives on being negative. This is why I often tell people, if I do not ask, do not tell me.
Limit Your Exposure to Negative Reports
My first lesson today is to encourage you not to dwell on all the negative situations that happen. Some things we cannot control, but we can decide what we focus on. We get to choose how we allow people to affect our lives. Just because somebody enjoys passing on the latest terrible occurrence, does not mean everybody wants to hear that. Some of us, who do not want you to pass that on to us are not oblivious to what is happening. However, we do not want to talk about it every time the opportunity slings that door open.
Psalms 112:7 tells us that blessed is the one who reverence the Lord. They have no fear of bad news. In other words, when we rely on the power of God, who works all things out for our greater good, we can experience peace even during the worst situations. Beloved, I challenge you to limit your exposure to negative news and saturate yourself in His Word. You know what triggers you, so stop magnifying all those bad reports and start glorifying God. No matter how awful anything is, those who trust in the Lord know we will see change in just a matter of time. In the meantime, our heart is at rest.
Stop taking everything personally and think of how your actions affect others. Try to see things from our perspective and respect our choice not to engage in discussing all the bad things. This retreat allows me to pray about those situations, plea on behalf of our nation and other issues, and be a source that equips people while empowering them for such times as these. I challenge you to go into your secret place, spend time with God, come out refreshed, and find hope in His promises.
TIME FOR REFLECTION: What are some other practical ways we can help those who are anxious about what is happening in the world? Please leave your comment below, hit that heart, and share this urgent message.
I pray the musical selection, Your Ways (Isaiah 55) by Shane & Shae stirs your heart to submit to the plan God has regardless of what you hear.
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