The Digital Fast, Part 4: Connection & Isolation

With Travis & Tiffany Aicklen
 
The Digital Fast Podcast, art, and intros were inspired and gleaned from "The Digital Fast," a book by Dr. Darren Whitehead. 

Scripture References: Matthew 6:5-8; Psalm 19:7

Intro: Welcome to this sermon with Travis & Tiffany Eklund. As we continue our Lenten digital fast, we're exploring the crucial themes of connection and isolation. This fast isn't just about unplugging but intentionally turning towards deeper connection with God (whose Word refreshes the soul - Ps 19:7) and authentic relationships.

Key Points:

1. Beyond the Screen: Meeting Core Needs: Giving up screens is challenging because they often serve as tools to meet deep, God-given needs for connection, attention, belonging, and affection. Our goal is to find true connection, not just eliminate a tool that offers a potentially distorted version.
2. The High Cost of Divided Attention: Digital distraction significantly damages real-world relationships. Lack of attuned, responsive attention (illustrated by infants struggling when caregivers focus on screens) hinders bonding and development at all ages. True, undivided presence is powerful but increasingly rare.
3. Six Pillars of Healthy Connection: Essential components for strong relationships include: 1) Attunement (noticing & tuning in), 2) Responsiveness (acting with care), 3) Engagement (pursuing connection), 4) Regulation (co-regulating emotions), 5) Handling Negative Emotions (validating all feelings), 6) Repair (mending relational ruptures).
4. God is the Source, Community is the Channel: God perfectly embodies and provides these six relational elements. While He is our primary source, healing and growth also happen as we experience these components through healthy human relationships within the Body of Christ – recognizing no single person can meet all needs.
5. Disciplines for Deeper Connection: In our hyper-visible culture, intentionally practice secrecy (keeping some things just between you and God, finding satisfaction in His gaze alone - Matt 6). Choose solitude (intentional time away with God) over reactive isolation (unhealthy escape from people).

Conclusion: This digital fast is a prime opportunity to exchange superficial or pseudo-connections for authentic intimacy—first with God, the ultimate Source of all relational health, and letting that connection overflow into deeper, more present relationships with others.

Call to Action: Actively use this time away from screens to pursue God. Practice the disciplines of secrecy and solitude. Assess your relational needs and seek to meet them primarily through God and healthily within your community. Pray for deeper connection with God and the key people He has placed in your life.