Limiting My Phone Expanded My View of God
Limiting My Phone Expanded My View of God
Kathryn Misenheimer says changing her smartphone settings changed her relationship with Jesus.
Misenheimer quit social media in 2022. Now she’s calling summer 2024 her “first ‘real-world summer’ of my adult life.” She says its all thanks to making changes to her smartphone.
Misenheimer undertook a process of simplifying her smartphone, removing non-essential apps, turning off notifications, and utilizing features like grayscale mode and “Do Not Disturb.” Additionally, she made lifestyle changes such as buying an alarm clock and keeping her phone away from her bedside. As a result, Misenheimer has seen numerous benefits: an improved attention span, better sleep, reduced anxiety and depression, and a deeper connection with spiritual practices.
The most significant transformation, she notes, is in her relationship with Jesus.
Listening. Without the constant distractions of her phone, she has become better able to listen to the Holy Spirit.
Dependence. “Leaving the house every day without the ability to Google the answer to every question that comes to mind has reminded me of my dependence on my omniscient Creator.”
Ambition. Taking a cue from 1 Thessalonians 4:11, Misenheimer feels better able to “lead a quiet life,” focused most on the people she loves.
Misenheimer says smartphones present Christians with an opportunity to stand out by choosing real-world experiences and in-person connections over excessive online engagement.