“Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.”
It is a 40-Day guided journey to intentionally reduce digital distraction and deliberately increase spiritual devotion. The purpose of a digital fast is to disconnect from the constant flow of information and online activities to gain mental, emotional and spiritual rejuvenation, reduce screen time-related stress, and promote mindfulness.
By turning down the digital noise, you will experience the time, space and mental clarity to listen to the voice of God. The Digital Fast begins on Wednesday March 5th and ends Thursday, April 17th. You can opt in any time you want as no registration is necessary!
The practice of fasting stands in stark contrast to most of the ways we live in our day-to-day lives, especially as it relates to digital technology. Due to the addictive nature of digital technology, and specifically smartphones, I want you to be aware of what you may experience during this time. In terms of withdrawal, you may experience nervousness, restlessness, or irritability during the first several days. You may have heightened emotional sensitivity and realize feelings of anger, grief, or sadness, even if you’re initially unsure of the cause. Our engagement with digital technology often disguises unpleasant feelings and leads us to avoid coping with them.
The good news of a digital fast is that the benefits far outweigh the initial drawbacks. As with any fast, the further you progress, the more distinctly you may be aware of the leading of the Holy Spirit and of the nearness of God and His work in your heart and life. Additionally, people report better sleep almost immediately. Other benefits include better posture, noticing the faces and eyes of others, increased mental clarity, the ability to focus intentionally, easing of neck and shoulder tension, an uptick in peace, the ability to dream for the future, and a vibrancy to the physical world.
This experience is an invitation to explore a better way. Rather than asking, “Can I really do this for forty days?” you should ask, “What do I want to learn or experience in the next forty days?” The first question makes you focus on muscling through and getting to the finish line. With this approach, there is the potential to either abandon the pursuit if you stumble along the way or make it to the end without having experienced the benefits. The second question will help you discover what can be carried forward in your relationship with digital technology and your devices. If you don’t have a clear and established why in your pursuit, it will be more difficult for you to persevere and see results on the other side.
All that to say, stay with it! Trust the process! It is for your good and growth!
In the week leading up to the fast, we suggest letting the people in your daily life know you plan to engage in a digital media fast. Here are some additional steps to consider:
Full Fast
Modified Fast
A one-week Equip Class with practical tips and discussion will be offered on Sunday, March 2nd and 9th, with a potential additional session on March 16th if interest requires. Facilitated by Wes, this class is designed to foster community conversation and provide space for questions. It will take place during the 8:30-9:30 AM Equip Class time slot.
For more details or to register, visit: Crossroads Equip Class Registration.
For those of you wanting to purchase a dumb phone rather than converting your smart phone, we recommend either the Gabb Phone or the Light Phone. The Gabb phone is also an excellent option for parents wanting to ensure their children aren’t exposed to the full scope of digital technology too early. You can find out more about these two phones by clicking below.
You did it! You fasted from digital mediums for 40 days, but what’s next? How can you continue a healthy relationship with your phone and the technology around you?
Apple user? Set up screen time on your iPhone or iPad.
Android user? Set up Digital Wellbeing.