Peace for the Overstimulated Soul
Your Nightly Prayer
By Sophia Bricker
TONIGHT’S SCRIPTURE
"He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake." - Psalm 23:2-3
SOMETHING TO PONDER
News articles, internet access, social media, text messages. All these aspects of technology mean we are more connected than ever before, but with the flood of information comes the risk of overstimulation. We read about an earthquake in another country and the tragic loss of lives, follow a news story with live updates, and witness the experiences of other people (near and far) when we are connected with them through social media. No longer do we merely receive tidbits of news and information each week. Rather, each day brings a massive amount of information that can be overwhelming to process.
Such a sheer number of incidents and tragedies is too much for finite humans to handle. We were never meant to carry the weight of all the problems of the world, for there is only so much we can do in our limited time, ability, and strength. Yes, we should care about what is happening to others and be aware of major events in the world. God does not expect us, though, to know everything or address every problem. That is what He does, and He is at work even when we do not see it (see John 5:17).
When we are emotionally and mentally overwhelmed by the flood of information we ingest each day, we can turn to our good Shepherd. He can lead us to the calmer waters of His presence. As we rest in Him and receive nourishment for our souls, we find that the clamoring voices of the internet have less control over us. Jesus truly is all we need, and He will sustain us no matter what news headline comes across our path (Psalm 23:1). In His loving company, we are safe.
Connectedness through the internet can be a great blessing, providing opportunities for genuine relationships with others. Yet, when the news updates and notifications cause us to feel drained, we need to know when to take a step back. The voice of the Savior is the only one that should be guiding us (John 10:3-4), so may we prioritize time alone with our Shepherd. He can give peace to our overstimulated souls.
YOUR NIGHTLY PRAYER
Lord, there are times when I am scrolling, reading news feeds, and checking social media, that I feel myself becoming anxious. All the problems in the world loom over me, darkening my perspective, and I feel as if hope is merely a far-fetched dream that will never materialize. Call my attention back to You during these moments of despair and exhaustion. Remind me that You are my Shepherd; In You, I have all that I need. Help me to quiet the voices of the media so that I can rest in Your presence, finding much-needed refreshment for my overstimulated brain and soul. And may You help me to be more discerning about the problems, issues, and updates I give my attention to, trusting that You are at work in the world in ways I could never be in my limited capability. I pray this in Your Name, Jesus. Amen.
THREE THINGS TO MEDITATE UPON
1. A place or image that conveys a sense of peace. Perhaps this is a park where you played as a child or a picture in a book that exudes a sense of calmness. How might this memory help you seek “green pastures” when life feels overwhelming?
2. A lighthouse near the ocean. Imagine you are traveling through the sea of information on the internet. In what ways can the lighthouse of God’s Word return your focus to Him when everything else is vying for your attention? Is there a specific verse that can anchor you?
3. Ideas to help you take a break from devices each day. What might you do instead to find refreshment? For example, you could spend time in nature, light a candle and pray, or merely sit quietly.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Aja Koska
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