My last blog post just before Christmas was about disconnecting.
As I reflect on that post, I am also thinking about many people who find themselves isolated due to this pandemic — likely many who are reading this post.
For those who are shut off from loved ones or just plain alone, going online represents a lifeline. It’s a window to the world outside. Mindful of this, I want this blog to be more than just about sounding warnings about things I feel my readers should be aware of; I also want to be an encourager.
For me personally, it’s about hope in God through Jesus Christ. If we take Him at His Word, we realize that we are never alone. Reflect on Jesus’ words “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27 ESV)
We seek affirmation and approval in social media, checking Facebook for “likes” or comments from others that make us feel good. We might experience fleeting feelings of satisfaction from others. Taken to an extreme, our habits of frequently checking our social media can rouse the sort of chemicals in our brain that encourage addictive behavior.
Further exacerbating matters is how we react to negative comments to our posts, whether about politics or something personal. We feel a gnawing in our gut as we try to reason with others who disagree with our opinion or become embarrassed when we say something we realize we shouldn’t have put in a post.
Yes, we can find encouragement and a form of fellowship online, but we should be careful and know when to disconnect.
Pursue prayer or just take time to be quiet, and allow your soul to settle down. Even secular psychologists admit positive outcomes relating to wellbeing and reducing feelings of isolation when people seek a higher power.
In conclusion, please realize that, in all this, you’re not alone.
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