A Fast from the Worldby Dale Harcombe | More from this Blogger 02 Jan 2009 07:56 PM
The other week a young married couple we know, were 'fasting from the world' for a week. What this meant for them was no internet and emails, no TV, no music, no magazines, no books and no radio. They were still in the world but cutting themselves off from the world's influences. The idea was to send more time reading God's Word and allow His words to permeate their lives and to spend more time relating to each other and to those around them. They had voluntarily chosen to do this in an attempt to draw closer to God and reduce the world's influence. Though I admit the idea is admirable and I could see the reasons behind it, and that it would be beneficial, I know I would find it hard. A week without music or books or the internet would be hardest for me. I found it hard enough when I was off line for a few days when our internet went down and the seven weeks I was effectively cut off from everyone here at famiues.com was worse. But I still could read and watch DVDs and listen to music etc. In the past I have been on a weekend retreat that operated in a similar manner. The idea being that it gave more chance to read the Bible, reflect on it and to spend time in prayer. In that situation, people on the retreat didn't even talk to each other. Being a naturally chatty person, keeping my mouth shut was not easy. Two days I could manage. To do it for longer than a weekend, I feel would be very difficult for me. I guess if I felt a distinct call from God to undertake such a fast from the world it would be a different story. Christians are called to be in the world but not of it, John 15:19 and John 17:11-15. But is this the way? What do others think of this idea of fasting from the world? Have you ever tried it and if so for how long? Did you draw closer to God? Bible verse from New American Standard Version Please visit these related blogs Are You Letting God Speak to You? Help for a Flagging Quiet Time 7 Steps towards a Stronger Relationship With the Lord Internet Safety: Intruder in the House Learn more about Dale Harcombe  Dale has a passion for books and writing. She writes in various forms, from articles to poetry to fiction for children and adults. Relevantchristian tags User Comments No comments on this article yet. Be the first to comment! Discuss this article
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