There are times when I take a break and disconnect from technology. I turn off the television, set my phone aside, look away from my computer, and observe all that God has given, like the miracle of nature. Sometimes it lasts a few minutes, sometimes an hour, when I decide to study my Bible. And always, I am awe-inspired. I feel a connection with God that I would not feel if I didn’t disconnect.
For example, I took a break from work the other day and looked outside my window just in time to see an owl landing on a tree branch. I don’t see owls very often. In fact, the last time was in 2017 in the middle of my workday, right in the heart of the city. It landed on a fence within twenty feet or so of where I was standing with a group of coworkers, and we all stopped to take pictures. It was amazing. By the day’s end, all I could think about was that owl. I remembered it with awe. And now, seven years later, I was staring at an owl again, only this time, there was just the owl and me. And again, I was in awe.
God can show me something awesome when I am in a crowd and show me that same thing when I am by myself. I still take the time to occasionally disconnect to be alone with Him:
To get clear with my intentions.
Have you ever heard the saying, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions?” Well, I try to avoid that road by studying my Bible. And I receive His wisdom, guidance, and correction. (Hebrews 4:12).
To know my internal desires.
I know what I want, but I’m not always sure how to get it. God clears away the confusion and He sets my paths straight (Proverbs 16:9, 19:21, 20:24; Psalm 37:23).
To let God lead the way.
Jesus set a good example for us (Matthew 14:23). To let God lead the way means to develop a life of prayer, and then listening and surrendering to His will. And the Bible tells us to do just that (Proverbs 3:5-6; John 15:1-5).
The occasional disconnect works for me. I want all the awe that I can get every chance that I get, rather than wait seven years to experience it.