Christian Ways to Unplug and Discover God's Presence Outside Every Day
Let me ask you something. How many of us have checked our phones before we even thanked God for a new day? I know I have. It seems so small, just a quick scroll, but soon enough we’re caught in a swirl of notifications and endless noise. It's easy to feel disconnected without even realizing we wandered far from what truly refreshes us. If you’ve wondered about Christian ways to unplug, I want you to know you’re not alone—practical guidance like spiritual self-care tips can help. In our latest podcast episode, Tiffany and I talked about how stepping into God’s creation is more than a breath of fresh air. It's a sacred way to reboot our souls and remember who we are in Him.
Why Christian Ways to Unplug Matter Right Now
Ever get to the end of a day and realize you spent more time looking at screens than looking at the sky? I remember when I first noticed—my spirit felt unsettled, even if my to-do list was done. The digital world is loud. Family, work, even church updates come through a small glowing rectangle. Pretty soon it can start to feel normal, but something is missing. The Bible reminds us, "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the expanse proclaims the work of his hands" (Psalm 19:1, CSB). God doesn’t just invite us to disconnect from technology, He invites us to reconnect with Him through the beauty He’s made, a reminder many readers find in Finding God in Hard Times.
Sometimes we overthink what real rest looks like, forgetting that gratitude practices can help us rest in God. We believe a big vacation or a perfectly planned spiritual retreat is required. But can I tell you something? God is waiting for us in the backyard, at a quiet park, or even on a walk around the block. Christian ways to unplug aren’t about abandoning our lives, they’re about noticing God’s presence right in the middle of them.
What Does It Look Like to Practice Christian Ways to Unplug? Small steps like Hearing God’s Voice Daily can help.
Here’s the thing—the best moments I’ve had with God didn’t happen in front of a screen, they happened outside with the sky overhead and often through handwritten notes. They happened outside with the sky overhead, or while trading stories with friends around a campfire. In the podcast, Tiffany and I laughed about kids running wild on “boring” hikes and how suddenly, with just the right view, everyone remembers what it means to find wonder.
Practical steps for getting started right where you are
- Leave the phone inside. Even for just twenty minutes. Take a walk, sit under a tree, or lay in the grass and notice what's around you. It sounds simple, but it can reset your whole day.
- Invite your family or a friend. Share the experience—point out the way the light filters through the leaves or the endless pattern of clouds. (Kids have the best questions, and sometimes they notice what we miss.)
- Start a weekly rhythm. Plan a set day or evening to unplug together—no screens, just open sky. My family loves walking after dinner, but maybe yours chooses Saturday morning in the backyard. Make it yours.
- Journal outdoors. Bring a notebook, not your phone. Write out prayers or things you notice. What is God showing you through what you see and hear?
Not just ‘going outside’—being present to God outdoors
Christian ways to unplug are about more than physical space. It’s not just being outside, it’s being present. Sit quietly for five minutes and listen for birdsong or, if you’re in the city, the wind through whatever trees you find. When we quiet the digital world, God’s voice has more room. You don’t have to come up with fancy prayers—just show up honestly and let the beauty draw you in.
What to Do When You Can’t Escape to a National Park
I know it’s easy to picture these grand adventures out west or dream Instagram-worthy moments in some famous park. I get it. National Parks are incredible (honestly, Glacier took my breath away), but that’s not what matters most. As I said to Tiffany, “You don’t have to go to a national park just to get outside and be in nature.”
Small, everyday places can be sacred too
- Your backyard or a local greenway
- A state park less than an hour from home
- The patch of grass outside your office at lunch
- Even a potted plant on your patio counts
I like to say God specializes in meeting us right where we are. Christian ways to unplug start with a decision to step outside of our digital routine and into awareness of His love. You’ll be amazed what a simple shift can do for your heart.
How Unplugging Connects Us to God and Each Other
Let me tell you a secret. Some of the sweetest faith conversations I’ve had with my kids have happened outside, not in a pew or study guide. Nature sets the stage—suddenly, questions about God and life come out in the open. We look up, notice the colors of a sunset, and my kids ask, “Did God make this just for us?” (Hand to heart, those moments stay with me.)
Sometimes the best Christian ways to unplug are the simplest. Go for a drive without turning on the radio. Visit friends for a picnic where everyone puts their phones away. Plan a campfire and ask what everyone is grateful for. Unplugging is about letting the noise fade, so joy and connection can fill the silence.
Building a habit that shapes family and faith
- Share your goal with others. Tell your spouse or children you want to try something new together. It helps everyone know what to expect and why it matters.
- Model it for your community. Invite a neighbor or small group to unplug together—maybe plan an outdoor prayer or worship night.
- Keep it real. Not every outing will be magical. Sometimes you’ll get complaints or even eye rolls, but the memories are being built with every step.
Biblical Wisdom for Unplugging and Reconnecting
Scripture encourages us to seek God in His creation. Psalm 19:1 (CSB) says, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the expanse proclaims the work of his hands.” When we step outside, we’re not just avoiding screens—we’re joining creation in worship. That’s why Christian ways to unplug aren’t just about self-care. It’s worship, it’s restoration, and it’s how we remember we belong to Someone bigger than our busy schedules.
Can I offer a suggestion? Pause today, even for just a moment, and look around with new eyes. Whisper a prayer of thanks. Watch how, bit by bit, your heart calms and your mind resets. God is waiting to meet us right where we are—no fancy plans required, just a willing spirit and a step outside.
Ready to Practice Christian Ways to Unplug?
You don’t have to overhaul your life to find Christian ways to unplug. Start small. Give yourself grace. Invite your people. And watch what happens as you make space to connect, not just with God, but with those He’s placed in your life. You might be surprised by the laughter, the questions, and the quiet. But most of all, you’ll remember—this is what you were made for.
If you want even more ideas or encouragement, listen in to our full episode of “Perspectives Into Practice.” And friend, don’t forget—every small step to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with God counts. I’ll be cheering you on as you put these perspectives into practice. Let’s meet God outdoors, together.
