2025 has been a whirlwind. We barely kept our heads above water this spring, and when summer hit, there was still no rest for the weary. When we returned in June from a two-week trip filled to the brim with performances and ministry engagements, my chaotic mind and weary body were running on empty.
I am in a season of life with my teenage daughters that is very full and exciting. One girl is soon to fly the nest, and the other is in driver’s ed, a new ballet school, and a new relationship. I am attempting to balance their needs along with those of my aging parents, my regular work and ministry load, and my ever-shifting hormones… Thank goodness Patrick is low-maintenance!
By the end of June, the noise in my head was too loud to manage. The mere mention of someone needing me would cause me to weep. I yearned for quiet. I needed quiet. Since my load was not going to lighten any time soon, I wondered what I could eliminate from my daily activities. Instagram was the obvious choice.
If I had to describe this app in one word, it would be noise. It is a constant display of society’s opinions, feelings, preferences, motives, and actions. Sure, there are godly connections and sweet friendships made or maintained through it. In fact, my daughter located her college roommate just two hours after joining IG on her 18th birthday. It has its benefits for many people both relationally and professionally. Please understand that I am not pooh-poohing social media in and of itself, but rather its effects on one’s head space.
On June 30th, I turned it off completely. I didn’t know for how long. I just knew I needed the quiet. As we turn the corner into August, I plan to return to it in very small doses, mostly so I can see my daughter’s posts after she leaves for the conservatory. But I don’t mind admitting there is some trepidation about bringing social media back into my life.
What I have learned is that the quiet is good. It is very good. I have been more aware of my surroundings, more productive in my work, more present in my home, and more in tune with the Spirit’s promptings.
For example, I was driving home a few days ago and felt a specific burden to pray for someone concerning a car wreck. I didn’t know who; I didn’t even know if it was me! But I prayed fervently for whomever the Spirit was prompting me to bring before the throne. I learned the next day that a family I deeply cherish was almost in a head-on collision at the exact moment of my prayers. The Lord graciously spared them.
I do not believe my prayers were the reason for their safety, for God does not need me. But I do believe the Spirit dwelling in us through Christ is more than a Comforter; He is our Guide and our Compass. He moves among His people, drawing us to the throne of God when we are still enough to hear Him. Herein lies the value of quiet.
The Hebrew word for quiet can be translated “undisturbed.” This might be my new favorite word! Christ-centered thoughts must never be replaced by man-centered entertainment. I won’t let this quiet month of learning be in vain. And I will better guard my heart going forward.
How about you? Are you quiet?
And the work of righteousness will be peace,
And the service of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever. (Isaiah 32:17)
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