When we think of fasting, we usually think of food. However, fasting can be from any number of things. I recently heard about someone who did a twenty-one day fast from negativity and complaining. I also heard about another person who fasted from watching the news. Is there anything in your life that you feel is a distraction or possibly even destructive? You might consider fasting from it.
I was feeling discouraged this week because (1) I haven’t made as much progress as I would have liked on my goals for the year, and (2) I haven’t made much progress on my goals for Lent either. (See my post regarding Lent here.) I have been making some progress. Just not as much as I would like. So I made a bold move yesterday. I deleted some apps from my iPhone that tend to take up some of my time. I will be fasting from those things over the next three weeks. And I am putting it in writing here in order to hold myself accountable.
Years ago I used to love hours of peace and quiet. I could take a four hour drive, by myself, without even turning on the radio. My mother would ask me if I got bored. I told her that it was glorious – just me and God.
Then in May of 2012 I purchased my first smartphone. And everything pretty much went downhill after that. If I am just sitting and waiting, I feel the need to do something to pass the time. I will check email, social media sites, or play a game. At times I almost feel desperate as I search for anything to satisfy a deep thirst within me. However, I always walk away feeling even thirstier than before.
The truth is that God is the only one who can satisfy that deep thirst within. So I am now on a quest. Like someone wandering through the desert, I don’t want just an oasis anymore. I want The Living Water! So over the next few weeks I will be putting aside some things that I feel are holding me back. In their place, I will be seeking God. I know He will meet me in the desert. I can’t wait to see what He has in store!
Bridget, I wish you the best as you battle the lure of the smart phone. I think I’d have the same issues, which is why I am keeping my flip phone. Much harder to text with it, so I just don’t. Thanks for your blog!
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Ah! Very smart to keep that flip phone! On the radio I sometimes hear a commercial which refers to the phone as a vortex that steals time. Sad but true! Thanks so much for commenting!
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How insightful. I wonder if my struggle with hunger is not with food but for God’s Word? I spend time in the Word every day, but maybe I need to spend more. Maybe instead of reaching for a snack, I need to reach for my scriptures. Thanks, Bridget.
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You bring up a good point, Judy! Many times when I want to eat something, I realize I am not even hungry. It’s just something to do that will bring instant gratification. I’m so glad you enjoyed the post and found it insightful! Thank you for commenting. It truly means a lot to me 🙂
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God bless.
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Thank you! God bless you too! ❤️
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