Embracing the Silence

It’s hard to believe, but we’ve reached Day 10 of our journey in prayer and fasting. Take a moment to let that sink in—this is a milestone worth celebrating! Double digits! What a journey it has been so far. TGBTG. People have shared so many moments of praise, awakenings, and changes they have encountered. It encourages me, and I hope you are receiving the same encouragement from those you are connected to or connected with during this journey.

If you’ve prayed and committed to following all parts of our With One Another Fast, then you, like me, have experienced the challenges and blessings of cutting out streaming platforms. To be honest, missing the NFL NFC and AFC championship games was no small struggle—I was tempted to sneak a peek but resisted. Congratulations to the Eagles and Chiefs fans, but I'm still going to rock with the Cowboys (for now)!

Removing platforms like Hulu, Prime Video, and Disney+ wasn’t easy, but it has opened my eyes to something truly profound: silence and the absence of distractions aren’t empty—they’re full. Full of opportunities to connect with God, my son, my family, my friends, and even myself in ways that streaming and scrolling had often overshadowed.

Rediscovering the Sound of Silence
At first, the silence was unsettling. Without the background hum of my favorite shows or movies, the stillness felt unfamiliar. But I soon realized this quiet was an invitation—an open space where God’s voice could be heard more clearly. Instead of filling free moments with entertainment, I’ve been filling them with prayer, journaling, and reflecting on God’s Word. It’s remarkable how much more clearly His guidance comes through when we eliminate the static.

Building Stronger Family Bonds
Without streaming, our family time has transformed. Instead of gathering around the TV, Kameron and I have gathered around the dinner table. We’ve laughed, built (some very big) Lego sets, played games, and truly listened to one another. These moments have reminded me that the best kind of entertainment is the joy of simply being present with my son. Nothing and no one will take that away from me.

Deepening Friendships
This week, I’ve also been intentional about reconnecting with friends. Without the pull of binge-worthy series, I’ve made time for phone calls, text messages, and meaningful check-ins. These moments have reminded me of the value of real connection over virtual distractions. Sometimes, a heartfelt conversation is far more fulfilling than an entire season of a show.

Finding Myself Again
One of the most surprising blessings of this fast has been rediscovering me. Without the constant pull of screens, I’ve had the space to reflect on my own thoughts, dreams, and emotions. I’ve been journaling and asking myself questions I’d been too distracted to consider. This self-reflection has been a gift, helping me realign with the person God has called me to be. And that alignment has made me a better me and a better pastor for you.

What I’ve Learned
Silence isn’t something to fear; it’s a sacred space where God moves. Cutting out streaming platforms has been more than just a break from entertainment—it’s been a reorientation of my priorities. I’m reminded of Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” In the stillness, He has revealed His presence in ways I could never imagine.

For some, this part of the fast may have been a struggle. For others, it might have felt easy or like something you weren’t planning to do anyway—and that’s okay. This journey is about what you are willing to commit your heart to for God. Fasting is deeply personal, between you, God, and your heart.

If you’re still on this journey, I encourage you to embrace the silence. Use it as an opportunity to draw closer to God and the people around you. Let it be a time of reflection, connection, and renewal. Day 10 is a milestone to be celebrated—but it’s also just the beginning of what this journey will bring. I can’t wait to see how God will continue to work in all of us as we continue to Grow With One Another.

I love you all and there ain't nothing you can do about it.
FLC