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
social media
Looking for answers in all the (wrong) places
Looking for answers in all the (wrong) places The “Up!” Devo for September 8 If we look for answers in incorrect places, we’ll get answers that are incomplete. For example, sitting on my desk are three textbooks. One is for the Greek language, one is for philosophy, and one is for psychology. If I try … Continue reading Looking for answers in all the (wrong) places
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)
Engage in S.S.T.
Do you ever see things online that really upset you? And have you wanted to go into attack mode, jump down someone’s throat, or log on with guns-a-blazin’? Speaking to the church in Ephesians 4:2-3, Paul writes, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep … Continue reading Engage in S.S.T.
The prudent give thought to their… clicks
This week I wrote an article for The Gospel Coalition Canada titled: “God Cares About Your Well-Being, Even Now.” [If you want to read it, click the link below.] It highlights several ways you can be proactive about your well-being in this crazy time, including this: Adopt a realistic approach to social media. Here’s why … Continue reading The prudent give thought to their… clicks
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
Feeding the envy beast
We’ve been thinking about invisible robbers who steal your contentment. Yesterday, I highlighted some studies about social media use and how it can bring down your mood. Unfortunately, by constantly seeing what people post, we can fall into a trap of perpetual comparison and envy. As a result, it can drag us down. Because of … Continue reading Feeding the envy beast
Social media torture = less contentment
We’ve been thinking about invisible robbers who steal your contentment. And more specifically, one who tries to convince you to put too much stock in (a) comparing yourself to others (in person or online), and (b) the judgments and criticisms of others. It’s definitely a big topic. Alain de Bottom wrote a book about “Status … Continue reading Social media torture = less contentment
Constant comparisons and negative criticisms
Lately I’ve been thinking about invisible robbers who steal your contentment. The latest one tries to convince you to put too much stock in (a) comparing yourself to others (in person or online), and (b) the judgments and criticisms of others. Is it just me, or did hundreds of you just nod your heads in … Continue reading Constant comparisons and negative criticisms
J.O.M.O.
Have you heard of JOMO? It stands for the “joy of missing out.” At first it seems like a strange statement. After all, isn’t “missing out” a bad thing? Sure. Sometimes. But missing out can bring you joy when you need a break, rest, and some space from the endless online chatter, high-drama relationships, or … Continue reading J.O.M.O.
