Resisting the opinions and emotional climate of the crowd

Mark Sayers describes a problem that many people encounter: “We want the freedom and autonomy of radical individualism while being dependent on the opinions and emotional climate of the crowd.”* Do you see the tension? We love to think of ourselves as rugged individualists who don’t need anybody else, thank you very much.  Yet at … Continue reading Resisting the opinions and emotional climate of the crowd

The polarizing internet

The internet has a polarizing effect. Recently a well-respected Christian organization posted a blog. Since it touched on the topic of politics, the comments came fast and furious. (Apparently, politics can be a touchy subject these days. Have you noticed?) Unfortunately, the comments were highly charged, accusatory, derogatory, and unfair. Have you noticed how quickly … Continue reading The polarizing internet

Physical rest without mental rest? (1 1-day invitation)

[Note: After today, the Up! devotional is going on pause for August while I’m on vacation. Full announcement below.] Many people are experiencing what I call “soul fatigue.” An article from the University of California describes the situation well: “We’re tired of being cooped up, tired of being careful, tired of being scared… ‘This is … Continue reading Physical rest without mental rest? (1 1-day invitation)

Informed decisions are good decisions

Informed decisions are good decisions. I’m pretty sure we’d all agree with that statement. But when it comes to what we read and hear—especially online—it’s easy to make quick conclusions that are anything but informed. The problem is compounded because of how quickly all the information comes at us. We’re bombarded. We hear breaking news, … Continue reading Informed decisions are good decisions