Discussion Guide: Abiding in a Distracted World

Desired Takeaway:

To help participants recognize how digital distractions and the anxieties of our age can choke out spiritual growth, and to encourage them to cultivate habits of abiding in Jesus by creating space for presence, stillness, and meaningful connection.

Icebreaker:

If you could go back and tell yourself something before starting the fast, what would it be?

1. Lean In – Getting Personal

You're almost three weeks into the Digital Fast. What has been the biggest surprise for you—something you didn’t expect to feel, struggle with, or enjoy?

2. Look Down – Examining Scripture

Read John 15:4-5. Jesus calls us to "abide" in Him. The Greek word meno means to remain, to stay, to not depart. Over the past few weeks, have you noticed a difference in your ability to focus on God? What has been easier or harder about abiding in Him without as many digital distractions?

3. Look Out – Seeing the Bigger Picture

The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:22) warns that the "worries of this life" can choke out the Word, making it unfruitful. Have you noticed any specific ways that digital distractions used to crowd your mind? With three weeks of space, do you see any areas where your spiritual life is bearing more fruit?

4. Look In – Internalizing Truth

In Mark 5:24-34, Jesus stopped, noticed, and engaged—even in a moment of urgency. Since stepping back from technology, have you found yourself being more present with people in your life? Are there any moments where you caught yourself noticing something (or someone) you might have previously overlooked?

5. Live It Out – Applying It Beyond the Fast

With just one week left in the Digital Fast, what’s one change you want to keep beyond these four weeks? How do you plan to continue abiding in Jesus rather than slipping back into old patterns of distraction?
Optional Exercises for the Week:
  1. Morning Stillness: Begin each day this week by spending five minutes in silence with God before looking at your phone or engaging with any technology. Reflect on what this does for your mindset and spiritual awareness.
  2. Interruptibility Challenge: Each day, pray: “God, help me to notice the people you place in my path today.” Then, actively look for ways to slow down and engage with those around you.
  3. Weed Out the Thorns: Journal about the “thorns” in your life—distractions, anxieties, or habits that pull you away from abiding in Jesus. Identify one to intentionally reduce this week.

Prayer Prompt to Close the Group:
"Lord, in a world full of noise, help us to abide in You. Teach us to slow down, to notice, and to be fully present with You and with others. Reveal the distractions that are choking out our spiritual growth, and give us the wisdom and strength to remove them. May our lives bear fruit that glorifies You and brings peace, joy, and love to those around us. Amen."

Suggested Resources for Further Study:
  • Book: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
  • App Recommendation: The Pause App (by John Eldredge) – a tool for creating intentional moments of stillness in your day