Just When You Think It's Over...

After 16 years of encouraging Middle School and High School students to do something unthinkable in our culture, I've learned a few things:

• Fasting from something that hurts your relationships is always worth it
• Don't under-estimate what a young person can do (or who they can influence)
• We grow closer in our relationship with God when we cut out the extra noise
• When families make a commitment to place "WE" over "ME", the whole family wins
• Just when you think something is over, it usually isn't

FASTING FROM SOMETHING

The reason you decide to avoid something is that you realize how it may be hurting you or others. Smoking, drugs, addictions, even media have a negative impact on our relationships. Lori and I noticed that many parents at restaurants and stores have been handing their kids electronic devices to watch movies or cartoons or play games while they are involved in conversations or activities with other adults... and we have also noticed that many young people have a really hard time carrying on normal conversations with their peers, let alone other adults. I think our tendency to try to "keep our kids entertained" so that they don't interrupt us is a bigger problem than we realize. I remember getting in trouble with my brothers when we started being a distraction or started to act up when my parents were trying to talk... you know what I learned by getting in trouble? I learned to pay attention to other people and not to spit spitwads at others when people are talking. Parents: it's ok to put your kids in situations where they will probably not act perfectly... and it's even wiser to remove things from our lives that distract or hurt our relationships with others, and God!

DON'T UNDERESTIMATE TEENS

Teenagers want to do something that matters. They want to make a difference. They are also incredibly influential and inspiring. When we hear of a 30-year-old making a decision to avoid certain media, we think "that's interesting... good for them", or "what a weirdo". But when a teenager makes the same decision, we think, "That's amazing! I wish I could do something like that!" There are countless stories of students who have jumped into this fast and have impacted their friends, their teachers, their parents, and others. We need to expect more from teenagers, not less.

CUT OUT NOISE; GROW CLOSER TO GOD

I'm not sure I have to get into this one. It's kind of a "no-brainer". But I do think that while we know this is true, how often do we actually do it? It's like when we want to lose some weight and we know we need to avoid certain foods and exercise... and then we still grab a tub of ice cream and sit and binge-watch our favorite show. We need to take time to cut out the things that are hurting our relationship with God... or we won't grow closer to God. I guess we have to decide whether our media choices and our time choices are more important than the things we need to do to grow closer to God. 

WE OVER ME TIME

I've heard this every year from families... "This past month of the fast was amazing! We did it together and it seems like there was less stress. We had so much fun together." But by the end of April, they are stressed out and tired. I know this because it has happened in my house for over 16 years. And while I'm not advocating that we should always fast from media distractions (although maybe I should and I'm just being selfish), I think there is incredible value in focusing on "we" over "me". It is so incredibly selfish for someone to say "I just need some 'me' time." I get it... we all need time away from chaos, complaining, crying, and everything else that comes from being a human on planet earth with billions of other people... but parents, you need to hear this: WHEN YOU HAVE DECIDED TO HAVE SEX, YOU DECIDED TO GIVE UP "ME" FOR "WE". And when you have kids, you have a responsibility to put your family above yourself. If you don't, you will regret it... trust me. I have heard more stories than I can count... I gave up a lot of things I like to do while my kids were at home, and I don't regret not doing those "me" things. I stopped playing golf; I said "no" to side jobs or extra responsibilities that would have taken time away from my kids and family; I even cut out working out every day (I play basketball 1 day a week for 2 1/2 hours) in order to make sure I was there for my kids. I learned how to coach softball. I went on field trips. I worked on projects... and while it sounds like I was amazing, I still see areas where I regret focusing on "me" over "we". I wish we had played more board games together. I wish we had gone on more hikes and walks. I wish I had prayed more often with my kids and wife. 

JUST WHEN YOU THINK IT'S OVER

We are wrapping up year 16... and it's been an awesome adventure. Over 400 students, 400 families, nearly 10,000 sponsors, have been a part of this yearly event. It has brought in over $250,000 in money raised to send kids on mission trips and camps. But even more important, is that teens and families have grown closer to each other, and to God. Just because it's April and everyone is "back to normal" in their routine, doesn't mean that the fast is over. Prayerfully, we called people to spend time with God... and if they did that, hopefully, they have a habit of finding time to spend with God, daily. Many of these kids will be involved in mission trips to help point others to Jesus... and that's an eternal outcome that we can't quantify. People throughout the year come across this website and read the posts from kids... and they are inspired to do something about their relationship with God... how awesome is that? Just when you think it's over... 

Thank you all for another great year on this adventure... I can't wait to see how God uses this challenge over the next year!

Over Already?

     Man, I can't believe that the media fast went by that fast! I remember at the beginning of the fast when I thought I would be dreading every day and would have nothing to do but, it happened to be the opposite. I had a lot of work at school because of spring break and during spring break we were pretty busy with family and trips. Even though we were busy I still feel like I got a lot more connected to God through all the movies I watched, songs I listened to and through reading my bible. This media fast really helped me with the way I reacted to things and after the fast I can see myself getting a little more angry over small things. So, even though the fast is over I am going to try to limit myself on media and read my bible more often.  All in all, I can't wait for next year's media fast and I am grateful for all the people who supported and prayed for me throughout the fast.

The End?

Well here we are, the media fast has been over for a couple days now and we can go back to media. However when I went back on Instagram and Snapchat I realized that I wasn't that interested in what was on there. I have learned to take a step back from everything going on in the world and see Gods point of view instead of people's point of view. There were a few times that I slipped up like when we were in the store and a song was playing I realized that I was humming along with it and I have to stop myself. Overall I have learned to focus more on God and learn more about him. Thank you to everyone who prayed and everyone who sponsored me during the fast. And to everyone who participated in this with me I hope we can remember what we have learned and not forget what the fast was about.
-Jordan

Return of The Media

I tried to make a good title, probably too cheesy but the blog post won't let you down... hopefully. The end of the media fast will come differently for others. Some might look back and say "thank goodness I'm out of this mess". Others might think that "it was fine" and "it won't affect me later" but when I look back I'm going to remember this journey and how it will improve my future life. I know that media has became apart of our lives because we see it everywhere. We see it in our friends, our school, politics, pretty much everything except the Amish. We care for it and we use it for a lot of things. That transition from straight media to straight non media was a punch in the face. As I look back I realize that punch was knocking sense into me showing me that I have been blinded from the true power of God. When I was on this media fast I saw things through my daily life that seemed like it was influenced by God. I would ask him questions through my prayer and hope for an answer like he was actually talking to me but instead I would listen to music or read passages that would be like little puzzle pieces. Those puzzle pieces would be put together and form a big picture. That picture would be the answer to my questions, something that is not showed and covered when we are sucked into the excessive amount of media. I guess the real point is that we should all cut back on media and make sure that we are aware of Him and what He does for us. As I continue my journey to get closer to God I know I have to change some of my previous habits so I can make cutting out media a habit. I am so glad that I was able to do this and I'm looking forward to doing more than just one month of fasting next year.

A forever kind of love

He Has Risen! (I know right?)
Happy Easter! This wonderful day also coincides with April Fools' Day and the end of the media fast. A lot to be thinking about today. Here are a few of the things I've been thinking about:
     I can't believe the fast is over already! And this is the end of my "official" fasting as I am a senior, but I'd love to continue to fast in years to come. I've memorized almost every Silly Song in existence and can quote Courageous and Moms' Night Out almost perfectly, but I've also been able to spend more time with my family and with my loving Creator. I've seen His power and majesty in everything, from the rain just a week ago to the brilliant sunshine now, from the rush of a spring break band trip to the peace and quiet of an "Easter nap."
     I really don't want to go full into media again. Though I was exposed to some music and some social media while I was around my friends, I had no longing to go back to it. The more I think about it, the more overwhelmed I become with even considering letting that stuff back into my life. A lot of it isn't positive and encouraging, and I think that I should be trying to keep my life as positive and encouraging as possible. If the occasion does arise where my family wants to go out for a movie, I would most certainly love to join them, because the movie is only half the fun of the outing. Getting to spend time with my family is a blessing, even though we can be a little... strange... sometimes. But that's just one of the things that comes with being in a family. And to be honest, I'm glad that God decided to throw in a little weird, cuz that makes ordinary things (and now, I'm noticing, things without media) way more fun!
     This fast has helped me be patient with a lot of things, because I am learning to not just jump on Google to look up an answer or open Snapchat to see what's going on in the world right now because I don't really need to know everything right now. It's good for me to wait, because God's perfect plan will come in time. I don't have to know exactly what He has planned for my future right in this very moment (though sometimes I'd really like to know) and I can rest assured that whatever is in my future is for a reason. He's got a reason for everything, even when it seems like those things might not be so good.
     Thanks to all of our sponsors! Your prayers are greatly appreciated and your financial support has done and will do amazing things in the lives of so many people. I am so looking forward to this mission trip, and I can't wait to come back with more stories of how God has changed my life!
     The media fast may be ending, but God's love NEVER ends!!
Remember, God made us special, and He loves us very much. Goodbye!
-Madeleine Jones

Crossing the *Finish* Line

And the media fast is officially over...

I have to say, I have mixed feelings. I think I’ll like being able to watch TV again (I went to a friends house and had to miss out on watching Thor 3), and I’ve missed some of the other things too. Don’t get me wrong,  I think it was good to take a break from those stuff, it kinda serves as a reminder of where your priority’s are it life, and helps you refocus on God. 

I’m excited on how much I grew these past few weeks and I’m looking forward to the Mission trip this July.

Until next time...

-Erik W Washburn

Not the End

Wow. Thirty days ago, I was telling myself, "Just get through it, it's only thirty days and then you can go back to everything." Now I'm telling myself, "It doesn't have to end, you can continue and you don't have to go back." I DO NOT WANT TO GO BACK. AT ALL. I feel so connected with God and I'm scared I might lose the connection if I let the distractions back in. Life is so so much better without media and with God. So many christian movies have inspired me, for example: "I'm Not Ashamed". Because of movies like that and music and reading devotions and stuff, I have realized that nothing else of this world satisfies me as Jesus does. And that is why I am so so thankful for this media fast. I have also decided to get baptized. I have grown to love Jesus with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. I really truly believe that this media fast has changed my life so much. It has made me realize that I want to live my life for him. Jesus gave his life for me, so I will give my life to him. Thanks for the prayers over the fast, they obviously really helped. I know God has something great planned for my life, and I can't wait to find out what it is and serve, love, and make him proud while doing it. Please pray that I continue my walk with Jesus, and that this love I have grown continues to grow even after the fast. Thanks again. :)

It's Almost Over!

I can't believe the Media Fast is already almost over.  To be honest, it has changed my life in many ways.  I realize how much I have been on my phone, and how much social media has been pulling me away from God.  So much of life has passed me by while I am on my phone.  I have missed out on many things.  That is a hard thing to realize, but I know now, and I won't let it happen again.  I have been keeping a Gratitude Journal this month, naming three things each day I am grateful for.  I have been reading my Bible a lot.  In fact, I read through the Book of Esther and some of the Book of Proverbs.  I am also working on daily devotionals on my Bible App. 

Stay 2 Serve was amazing.  I loved teaching all the little kids about God and Jesus, and how Jesus died on the cross for our sins.  The language barrier was hard, though, because sometimes the kids couldn't understand what we were saying.  Sometimes the kids could understand the basic concepts of what we were saying, but all the time, the kids could understand our smiles and laughter.  God has changed my life in so many ways this month, and I am already looking forward to next year!

Almost There!

Stay 2 Serve ended yesterday and we had so many kids and parents. It was a lot of work but it was really cool. I'm excited that the media fast is coming to an end. Even though I don't want to go back to the same old habits I still kind of want to watch my shows especially "A Series of Unfortunate Events". In the beginning of the month, I was kind of struggling but now it feels like normal daily life.

             

Philippians 4:13 

                                     ❤"I can do all thing through him who strengthens me"❤

Few more days!

I can’t believe that the media fast is coming to an end! Stay 2 Serve just ended and we had A LOT of kids and I thank God because He gave us an opportunity to share the gospel to so many different people and in so many different ways! The fast hasn’t been that bad so far, because I’ve been keeping myself busy with writing Bible verses in my journal. I don’t want to go back to my normal habits of being attached to my phone more than usual after the media fast is over.

Forever

Its coming to the end of the media fast and I realize that this doesn't last forever. I think to myself for a little bit on how I've done and what I have learned. I go back to my Spotify playlist and shuffle my songs and the first song I hear is Forever from Chris Tomlin. I was listening closely to the lyrics and I thought it related to the media fast and questions I have today. One verse says "he is good he is above all things". When I heard this a thought clicked in my head as if It was meant to tell all of us that God is above all media, all technology, and anything on this Earth. I also thought to myself the word Forever. I realized that even though this media fast may not last forever our faith in God will and my striving to get closer to God will also last forever. I think God shows signs to everyone through there daily life even if its in a song or a book or media. God has worked through me all month and I now know that when your on media it covers or blinds you from what God has given us. This media fast is almost over and Easter is coming up and i'm making sure I notice everything that comes my way.

Home Stretch

For every person who participates in any kind of fast, there is the home stretch where your mind takes over. You start thinking about the day after your fast, the things you can finally do (watch, listen to, read, play) when it's all over. The problem with this thinking is that we begin to forget what we have done and why we did it. Here's some questions everyone needs to wrestle with this week:

• What was I fasting from?
• Why was I fasting from it?
• How has this fast changed me? My stress? My everyday life?
• What have I been doing to grow closer to God during my fast and how can I keep that moving forward?

This is when leaders become leaders... when they recognize how a decision they have made has made their life better or worse... then responding to it to continue to be successful. 

Success during this fast IS NOT avoiding media... it was to remove something in our lives that was taking up time we could spend, growing closer to God. My hope and prayer is that you have grown closer to God through taking time to read His Word, prayer, memorizing Scripture, and listening to music that helps you focus on Him.

The Last Week

Tomorrow is Stay 2 Serve and I am so excited! This is my first year doing it and I'm kind in the middle of being nervous and excited. I can't wait to work with the kids and to teach them and bring them closer to God. The media fast has been good even though on our field trip last week everyone was on their phones the whole bus ride. At least my friend brought slime so I can occupy myself. To be honest, I don't really want to go back to media after March 30th. Yeah I want to watch my shows but I think to myself, "What a wonderful world that God has created and being on secular media has drawn me away from it". I'm thankful for the people who are praying for me and supporting me.

feelin good :))

It's day 24 of the media fast and I have never felt so connected with my family, friends, and most importantly, God. The first few days of March I found myself picking up my phone to check for notifications because I was so attached to my social media accounts and I felt like I needed to know what was going on all of the time. I feel so much different now. I have more time to spend reading God's word and reflecting. Instead of reaching for snapchat, I have been going through some daily devotions in my Bible app. I've been feeling less stressed and I am focusing on things that are actually worth my time. Thank you for all of your prayers and kind words. God is doing awesome things! :)

Open eyes

It is day 24 and I am happy to say this has become normal. Not only that, but i'm loving it, and i'm sad it is going to be over soon. My whole life I have grown up being told, God is always here, he is always with you. But I have never really felt like he was. This media fast has allowed me to grow so much closer to him. Now, I feel like he is right by my side, helping me through everything. And as cliche as it sounds, it feels like a missing part of me has been filled. Like the part of me that wasn't content with who and where I am in life, is content. And all the credit goes to spending more time off media, and focusing on God instead. Sometimes it's hard when all my friends are on their phone, looking at things. But then I am reminded that it kind of sucks to be glued to these devices because you miss so much. For example I got this camera app that I have been taking a lot of pictures of God's creation with. Getting off instagram, and opening my eyes to see everything that I have been blessed with has been amazing. It is almost embarrassing to remember how much I was on my phone before. And it always makes me giggle when I see groups of kids with their eyes glued to their screens, because I know what they are missing. God has opened my eyes, and I am so thankful. Please pray that I continue this way even when the fast is over. Thanks so much.

Almost there

Before I started the media fast I thought this fast would be really hard but, it's a lot easier than I imagined.  I have to admit I had a few slips for the first few days and wasn't really used to no media.  Luckily, every day that went by got easier and easier and soon it became more of a routine.  I've found myself thinking about God and admiring his creations a lot more than usual.  I hope to carry on these habits of focusing on God and becoming stronger through him throughout the rest of my life.

Checking In

How is it going,

Just checking in, letting you know my media fast is going pretty good. It has kinda gotten to the point where I’m not even bothered by wanting to do the medias. I also like all the the new Christian music I’m listening to, it is giving me a lot of ideas for Sunday morning worship.

Praying for everyone

Erik W. Washburn

Almost Done...

          As week three draws to an end, my whole family is sick with the flu, including me. Ugg. I hope I can get better in time to be at Stay 2 Serve. But, this sickness was a blessing in disguise. This week an important project was due in my language arts class. There were four projects due this school year, one for each quarter. I reviewed the packet I received at the beginning of the year and found the due date for this quarter. It was set for the 19th. I clarified with my buddies in a different class since they usually have the same due dates (this is a grade wide project). However, they said that the due date is the 23rd. I also asked one of my friends in my class and they said that it was due on the 23rd as well. I dismissed my suspicion and assumed that the packet had a typo. Yesterday, the 20th, one of my friends was texting me and asked me how I am going to get my project in by spring break. Suspicious, I asked her if the due date was the 23rd or the 19th. She replied and said that it was actually due the 19th! If I had not been sick, I would have had to turn my project in late and, as a result, would have points deducted. Though it isn't fun to be sick, I'd say it is worth it to get a project turned in "on time". Thanks God!!!

😃😃😃

⭐Plz continue to pray for me for the remaining 10 days, especially during Stay 2 Serve! ⭐

⭐Stay 2 Serve is from March 26th through the 28th.⭐

week 3

So the fast has continued to work well for me. I have continued to grow closer to god and read my bible more and I have written four songs and have like three I haven't finished. I plan to record these with some friends and with Andrew soon and I'm super hyped about that. but I have forgotten about the fast a couple times... I was a Ethan's house and well we played like two hours of mine craft with his little brother... very disappointing I know. And in class once I listened to on song that was secular. besides those I have done well with the fast and have been enjoying it a lot.

                                                           Tyler







I was at the library after school because my moms the librarian and I was shelving books with my friend Sal and my mom was in the bathroom and Sal wanted to show me a video called "Loca the pug" And then I showed him the "little lad dance"

                                                                   Lily
                               
                                                             

Second week... NO WAY!!!

          Wow, time has flown!!! I think it is so crazy that I am half-way through this journey. 😆 Today I was tempted to watch my little sister's favorite TV show, but I knew I couldn't. I really wanted to watch the TV show even though it was for second graders (hey, sometimes I surprise myself!). I have been craving TV a lot lately, and playing games on my tablet too. I decided that I would find a God-centered show, and I am determined to! Still looking. I'm also using my OCD to clean up some of the messy areas of my house (I don't have OCD, but sometimes I wonder... 😜). My mom really loves that. I'm finding lots of old games around the house, which is kind of strange, but still fun to pull out ancient relics of the past. All in all, these two weeks haven't been too bad!

Small things!

                                                   Small things♡

   Oh wow, has it really been this long(only two weeks)! My past other two weeks have been amazing. I haven't really checked my calender much because I've been way too busy observing and focusing on Gods creation. My dad recently got flowers for my mom and I have just been looking at how each of the flower's petals and how much detail is on the ONE flower! I also have been gazing at my fingerprint. It is super crazy how God has put so much detail and many,many,MANY creases on my fingerprint! I try to pay close attention to all of Gods creation,but I will not forget about the small things he has created.
                                                          Psalm 103:2
                  ♡"Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me."♡ 
                                 ★Please continue to pray for the other two more weeks!★
                                               *Y'all got this! I believe in YOU

2nd Week!? No way!

It wasn't until I was reading other posts when I realized this is the 2nd week! The month is passing by so fast. The media fast is going good. I'm so happy about all of this . The last few days has been raining and it has been amazing. Stay2Serve is almost here. About a week and 4 days. I'm excited and I can't wait.

Another Week Gone!

     Another week gone just like that! This month is going way more faster than I thought it would. I expected myself to dread every day, yet I just find myself enjoying the small things a lot more. For example, I was driving home from IKEA and I look at the sky (I was bored since would usually be on my phone) and I see the clouds. It was honestly one of the coolest things I've seen. They were just all so fluffy and big like in the movies, yet seeing it in person was a lot more different. I had a little humbling moment and realized once again that God is way bigger and greater than I can ever be. So, that was pretty awesome but, there is still another couple of weeks left so we must all stay strong till the end!

Another one bites the dust

Well here we are, the media fast is half way finished. I honestly thought that I would have a hard time with letting go of media for a month but it's been really nice not being on it. Of course there have been some times where I really wanted to listen to or watch something that wasn't focused on God but then I remembered why I am doing this, to take a step back from the worries of the world. One of the hardest things for me this week was people talking about playing video games and being on social media. However with finals coming up for me I am glad that I can't play games or be distracted by social media, I will have more time to study and prepare for finals. Any way I am looking forward to enjoying the rest of this media free month and I'm praying for everyone who is doing the fast that they will succeed and not be tempted.

-Jordan

14 Days and Counting!

My goodness! It has been 14 days already!? It has past by really quickly and really good. The media fast is actually not that bad for me. Sometimes my mom turns on cartoons for my brothers in the morning and I usually watch with my brothers but now I can't and I want to for like the teeniest bit. I'm excited for Stay 2 Serve. Can't wait to teach kids about God! 

13 days!!!!

Can’t believe that we are almost halfway through the media fast! These past 13 days have been pretty good... the media fast in general is pretty easy, but it’s kind of hard when my parents are watching TV and I can’t be in the room... I recently came back from Lake Tahoe with my family and friends and we spent time in the snow a lot and I got to see God’s creation in many ways. Spending time with my family and friends got me not thinking about the media all the time. I can’t wait for S2S and to serve the community. I also can’t wait to see what God is going to do in my life in the next 17 days and beyond.

Still Working On Me

You know just today I had free time in my class and it was so boring looking at others on their phone using their media and it had just tempted me to fall. But then a song just had to pop up in my mind and I thank god that he had put this song in my mind as well,and then I go to spotify and put on the song Mandisa (Unfinished) and that tune had just lightened up my day to do more for God and this was such a Blessing to work In me when I'm down to just grow in my faith even more!Thank God for putting my mind on this song just when you think your done or out he is still working on you and that has made my day. 

Obstacles in Every Journey

Man it has been 13 days and I am feeling it. I have noticed that my want for my music and my want for T.V. and games have come back. At this point I realize that nowadays society has taken the media and put it through every kids life, it sort of intertwines with them. When I walk around my school campus I see kids listening to their jams, I see kids on social media, and I see kids looking at their phones in general.  It's really hard to stay away from those type of things because it is all around you and to be honest when I see my friends on their phones I kind of miss it. But that is not going to stop me from completing my journey. As I refrain from this I look on the brighter side of things such as thanking God for giving me the chance to go to a great school with great friends and get a great education. Another good thing is that I am able to see the negative effect some media has on people. For example how it can spread things that aren't true about someone that could hurt their feelings. Another example is how some of the music we listen to today is focused on the exact opposite of what God wants us to do. Now I am not saying that all media is bad but I have realized that when this media fast is over I will have to cut back on a lot of it so I can stick with the motion of focusing on God. Hopefully everyone else that is taking action in the media fast is right on track and keeping up the good work. I can't wait to see what all of  next week has in store for me but until then I am going to stick with listening to my Christian jams.

Prayer is the Remedy

To be honest, the Media Fast has gotten a lot harder! I am more tempted to look at my social media and more tempted to listen to my regular music, but all I have to do to break that temptation is pray! I have been reading my Bible more and praying more during this Media Fast and I might continue the fast  a teeny tiny bit into April! Thank you for all the people who are supporting me financially and praying for me!

Quickly Now

Is it already Day 13? I guess. It seems just a few days ago I was deleting Instagram off my phone and now by weeks end we will be half way through. The lack of Medias have not really been a problem for me, and I have enjoyed the extra time I’ve had, it has helped me get through the SAT and get school stuff done, and of course spend more time with God. I feel pretty good about the media fast this year so far, so fingers crossed it will pass without any temptations.

Praying for yall

Erik Washburn

First time and I am excited (sorry for the very late message)

Hello my name is Robert Pierce I am in the 9th grade and I am starting out my first 30 Day media fast. To start off my media fast my family and I are very interactive when it has come to these past few weeks we have had bible study,Board Games,Christian DVDS/Sermons and many more but before I get into these activites I must read my daily Devotional which is called make it a habit.This Devotion has been a very big impact on me while I am on this media fast. Pastor Matt Matzke has told us that a habit can develop from a minimum of 30 days to a maximum of 40 days and this has made me think of why I do the 30 day media fast so that I can develop a habit to were I can get closer to god and even read our bible even more or for a start.This impacts me because I use a lot of media and it can mostly take up the rest of my day or most of my day and now realizing that is drawing me even further away from god.But for these weeks I have been reading through the book of exodus and this can show me big examples as well of why I put all of my trust in god.I know that we have been by now 2 weeks but I just ask that you can please pray for me throughout the process

Kindness

Kindness is a language the deaf can hear and the blind can see.

~Mark Twain~

Beautiful Things

Over the past week or two I have started to notice God and his wonderful creations.  I recently got back from a Lake Tahoe trip with my family and I feel as if I am closer to God just by looking at the beautiful scenery.  I have also watched a few Christian movies, my favorite one so far is God's Not Dead 2.  Besides the great movies It hasn't been easy to stay away from secular media.  But, I do find that I get a lot more things done without it.  Thanks for the support!   

Find the light and spread it.

There is darkness all over the world, but where there is darkness there is light, no matter how small it may be it's there waiting for you to discover it.

Spotify Music for Media Fast

NEW SONGS ADDED

So you might be wondering, "what is some good Christian music I can listen to?" Well, I want you to know that we have put together a Spotify playlist that not only can you listen to, but that you can add music to if you come across a song that is really connecting with you during the month. Here is the playlist link:

Ourthirty Playlist

Just follow the playlist and add a song that helps you focus on God... there's already a lot of good songs on there... we just wanted to create a space for you to share your songs with the rest of us!

Reckless Love

     Day 9! Where has the time gone? It both feels like the Media Fast has just begun (which it has) and also been going on for a month already. That's the amazing thing about spending time with God: time stops and speeds by all at once. And that's a good thing! I've been listening to a lot of worship music and really feeling the incredible power of worship in singing and music. Music has always been very meaningful to me, but it seems that this particular year has brought about a new meaning to music and the power it has to influence my thoughts and emotions.

     In my psychology class we were discussing the fact that we are not consciously aware of most of what goes into our brains. Though the unconscious is a place of our mind that is not often tapped into by our conscious, it still greatly affects our physical and mental well being, and many things we put into our brains can come out in various ways, whether we mean them to or not. That really stuck with me and I pondered how much of what was unconsciously going into my brain was positive and healthy, and how much of it (likely quite a bit more) was negative or secular. 

     This month is all about focusing on Christ and avoiding secular things (anything not focused on Christ) but it's way harder than one might think to avoid the overwhelming amount of secular everything that constantly surrounds us, especially music. The thing is, when we're not fasting from it, it's really easy to not notice how much this secular stuff surrounds us, which reinforces the statement that we really don't know what goes into our heads.

     With all this being said, I've really been trying to focus on the lyrics of the Christian music I've been listening to, and the results have been amazing. I feel uplifted, humbled, and oh so loved, because I know that every single word of every single song is true. And the few times I've gone out and heard secular songs, I tried to listen to the lyrics and think about what message they're sending, and it usually doesn't fill me with love or hope.

     I'm really glad music exists, because "where words fail, music speaks." And sometimes all it takes is a little bit of positive, encouraging music to remind us of that "overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God" (a lyric from Reckless Love, a song that's been on my heart all week - I really suggest it!!)

     This post is a little longer than I intended, but I guess that's the way it was supposed to be :) Happy fasting! And remember, God made you special, and He loves you very much!

In All Honesty

I would love to tell you that I'm having an amazing time and that I don't miss secular media at all. But in all honesty I miss it a lot. I miss my tv shows and instagram, the games I play when I'm bored, all of it. But missing it has not discouraged me. It just shows me how much I need to be away from it all. The fact that I am having trouble with this fast, and it has only been 10 days, kind of scares me.That's why I am so thankful that I have been given this greatly needed opportunity, because I can already feel God working in my life and heart. Without all the distractions of media, the time I have had for devotion, has allowed me to understand my faith and grow in my faith more than I ever have before. So in these next 20 days, yes I may struggle, but I hope I come out of it stronger in belief and that I don't just go back to forgetting about giving time to the Lord and the bible. Thanks for the continued prayer.

So Far, So Good

The media fast is going pretty good. It's still tempting not to watch my shows and listen to my favorite songs but, other wise it's good. I had a good day at school and when I came home, I did my homework and went into my office and read the Bible for an hour or so with devotional music on.  I'm thankful for the people who are praying for me and supporting me. I'm praying for myself so I can complete this challenge and grow closer to God and I'm praying for the other people who are doing the media fast.



                                                         
"Each time he said, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weakness, so that the power of Christ can work through me."
   
                                                               2 Corinthians 12:9
                                                        New Living Translation Bible

9th Day

This is my ninth day on my media fast. I am doing fine mostly, but it is hard not being able to watch TV. I have watched a few christian movies along the way. I am getting more used to the media fast and I am seeing changes in how often I read my Bible.

Survived Week One!

     Yay! I made it through the first week of my first Media Fast! It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be but, there were still a couple of temptations to break the fast. One example is when I finished all my work in class and everyone was just playing games. Knowing I wasn't allowed to do that I sat there and waited to wait for the bell to ring (which was luckily only like 3 minutes). Other than things like that (temptations) everything is going pretty good. I read my bible a lot more often than I did before and I feel more connected to God as well. Now this is only after one week and I know God still has more for me during the rest of this month. I can't wait to see what it is he has for me!

This Isn't Easy

Today is March 8. I am a good ways into the Media Fast now and am sort of getting used to and liking not having to check my phone and use that time to connect with God. Thank you to the people that are supporting me financially and with prayers, this isn’t easy.

Week 1

It has been one week of the Media Fast, and I have to be honest, it has been hard! It has been really tempting to look at Instagram or watch my favorite shows, but I have not looked at ANY of them! I have found a lot of good shows on Netflix that I can watch. This journey has been amazing so far and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the month will be like. I have been reading my Bible more and praying more, but the best part is feeling like I have more time every day.

1 week ✅

I have officially made it through the first week of the media fast! I am not going to lie that it was hard and I did struggle a little. I was able to stay away from all media the whole week but I was tempted a little. I think the biggest problem for me was to not watch tv or a movie when I was bored. I was able to focus more on homework and priorities without the distractions of media! I think that this week will be a lot easier because I have gotten more used to it and it's getting easier everyday! I'm excited for the weeks to come on. Thank you for all the help and support!

Media Fast first time!!

Hi, my name is Emma Kapelkin. I am a freshman at river city high school and I am doing the media fast for the first time this year! I'm nervous and excited to start the media fast! I want to be able to stay strong and not be tempted by any media. Throughout the first week, I am hoping to grow closer to God and not rely on media so much! Thank you to everyone who are sponsoring me and praying for me throughout this month! Can't wait to see what God will do through me this month! Sorry this post is so late.. I had some difficulty logging in and posting earlier this week.

THE END IS NEAR!! (and by that I mean the first week)

Good morning my fellow media fasters. The week is almost done...But we still have a whole month ahead of us, but you know what we can make it, I know we can and we'll all come out of this closer to God than we've ever been.

1 week down!

I never thought not watching any tv, playing video games or listening to my music would be this hard. At least it's getting easier now that week goes by. I am looking forward to growing closer to God.

The end of one!!

The first week is practically done and I already feel a lot closer to God. During the week it hasn't been as hard as I thought it would. Thanks to the media fast, I have had a lot more time to do things like pray and do our books devotions. It has only been a week and the media fast has affected me so much in such great way, I hope to keep these habits even after the media fast.




Thank you so much for all the people who are sponcering us you mean a lot to us!!!!

Never ending

Well, the first week is almost done. I have to say I have not missed media as much as I thought I would. I have been reading in the book of John this last week and I realized how never ending God’s love really is, all of the stuff that Jesus went though he could have just stopped it all with a word but he didn’t, his love never ended. At the start of this month I expected to learn more about the Bible and come closer to God, this one week that has gone by has proven that that is possible, over the span of these last seven days I have understood more of the Bible than what I had understood in the last two months. I hope that my progress with understanding God and the Bible will advance as much as it has in the last week over the rest of this media fast. Praying for everyone who is doing the fast and hopping they are learning more about God.

-Jordan

It means no worries

Ok guys so I just realized what God is for me. He's Hakuna Matata which as you know,  means no worries for the rest of my days, and that's exactly what Jesus is once you accept him as your Lord and Savior. Oh and I also really like Disney. 😄

Matthew 6:25 Therefore I tell do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body or what you will wear.💖

My First Time!!!!

I am Lily Bone I am a 6th grader at Caleb Greenwood. I am a little frustrated and excited about the media fast. Now that I'm off media I'm starting to realize that I'm on media a lot more than I knew I was. I come home and all I want to do is watch the Flash, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, or read a book. But I cant. So I do my homework to get my mind off things. But that doesn't work.So then I go Netflix to see if I can watch something and then I find a movie called "I'm In Love With A Church Girl" I was a little confused because all I could think of at the time was that song "I'm In Love With A Church Girl''. And then I go on Vudu to see if I could rent some movie like the prince of Egypt but I had already watched it and then I remembered the movie "God's Not Dead" so on Sunday  me and my family watched "Gods Not Dead" and then I said to my self after watching the movie I think Ill be able survive this media fast a little longer.


                                                                             --Lily Bone

There's a first time for everything...

         

There's a first time for everything...

          Hi everyone, I'm Lana Storm! This is my first time doing the media fast. I am a seventh-grader at California Middle School. My media fast has been Ok so far. Sorry that I haven't been able to post sooner, I've been having technical difficulties. But not now! But back to the Fast. The past five days have been pretty good in my opinion. But what can I say... I have 25 more to go! I feel slightly closer to God already.  Please continue to pray for me. While surviving these 31 days is hard, with God all things are possible!😃

❤ "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." ❤

 - Matthew 19:26

Third Times the Charm

This is my third time on doing the media fast, and will be my third time on the mission trip...

So I’m basically an expert when it come time ever March, ehh? Nope, not even close.

 I still find myself thinking about media, not in the sense of, “oh my, I wonder about all of the stuff I’m missing” but more in the sense of, I’m not used to it not being there. At the same time I have found myself more joyful and happy the past few days and I don’t think it would take Einstein to figure out why, I guess we just don’t realize how much time and energy our media takes from our lives, even in a passive way.

I’m excited to see what God will do in our lives this month, See y’all around

Erik W. Washburn

My First Year

Hi, this is Abi McLean.  This is my first year doing the media fast at Arcade.  Today is day 4 and my biggest challenge so far has been giving up listening to music.  However, Since giving up all media I do feel like I have had more free time to focus on God.  This month is defiantly going to be a challenge for me, but I think it is going to help me break habits of turning to an electronic device when I am bored.  I am hoping by the end of the fast I will have gotten into a routine of reading out of my Bible, if even for just a few minutes, each day.   I think that overall this month will be a very positive experience for me. 

It's official

Hi this is Hudson Jones. I am in 7th grade at Victory Christian School. This is my first official media fast, but I have done it for the past several years along with my older sisters. It is hard to give out a letter to someone asking them to sponsor me. But I have seen that people have responded generously and graciously. One of my teachers at school even told me that sometimes he takes a break from media and being free from a screen seems a lot better. For me, it has been hard to give up watching TV shows. I have seen in years past that in the end having a break from media always helps me calm down and helps me be more interactive in my daily activities. Although the other years that I’ve done this it didn’t seem too hard, this year it seems more official and there is a purpose at the end of it.

There is Good news

There is so much bad news in the world right now

but no matter what we have good news and that good news 

has a name and that name is Jesus Christ

There is good news for the captive

Good news for the shame

There is good news for the one who walked away

There is good news for the doubter

The one religion failed

For the good Lord has come to seek and save

He's our rescuer

He's our rescuer 

We are free from sin forever more

Love this song by rend collective!

Media Fast

Hello, I am Jake Ward and I am a 7th Grader at St.Micheal School.So far I have been doing the Media Fast for four days, and it has been surprisingly easy. Video games are a big part of my life, on uneventful weeks I play sometimes around 30 hours! So when I first heard we would have to do a Media Fast, if we wanted to do Stay2Serve, I tried to think of some excuse to myself of why I couldn't do it.But, So far I have found substitutes to my media, like instead of video games and non-christian music I listen to Christian music, read the bible, or play basketball.So that's my post, please read my next one. 

LAST YEAR

So this is my last year doing the media fast (at least while in high school). This has already been pretty difficult for me. For the past few months I’ve been been really struggling with my faith. As many of you may know, one of my closer friends passed away a little over three months ago which really lead me to struggle with my faith. I started to go down the wrong path. What I don’t think many people realize is how much music affects your mood and your actions. I definitely didn’t realize this, which really lead to some trouble. I started getting lower grades in my classes, started a relationship that was not Christ centered, and just started to hang out with an overall bad crowd. Even though this media fast has just started, I have already seen a change in my life. I have brought up my grades slightly (as it only has really been 3 days), ended my relationship, and am trying to hang out with a different group. All of this from only three days of more positive music and devotional. I’m very excited to see what god can do with me and what he can do through me. I’m grateful to have so many of you to hold each other accountable. 

Deprivation isn't a bad thing

Being deprived of something does not come easily today. Most everything we want comes at just about the push of a button. Just like deprived of certain foods can help our health, being deprived of social media can help improve our overall attitude and focus on God. Sure we have our favorite T.V show that might put us in a happy mood or that one song that we could play on repeat singing and dancing to, but it never gives us the same kind of joy of that when we are singing and dancing and spending time with God. He has given me the gift and love of music, which will be the most challenging media for me to give up, but thank goodness for worship music! I am looking forward to being deprived and listening more to what God has to say to me, rather than the world.

He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

Luke 11:28

First time fast

What's Sup yall! My name is Shantaniece Bonnard I am a freshmen at church but in school i am in 8th grade. This is my first time doing the media fast and I kinda love it. At first it was really hard. I can't tell you how many times I wanted to watch something on Youtube or listen to a secular song. Even though it's only been a few days I have already started to change my adittude towords my mom and I'm also being more grateful for everythig God has done for me. I also found this really cool thing called laminin. Its literally the coolest thing you'll every see, Laminin protine is a fibrous protein present in the basal lamina of the epithelia. So basically without it we'd literally fall apart. Oh and did I mention it looks like this. Colossians 1:17 says "By Him all things are held together."

Tad's in bed now it's time to veg

Well, Tad just went to sleep. It's the time of night when we turn on the TV while we look at our phones and relax for a few minutes, or hours until we go to sleep.  It has been interesting the last few nights, not turning on the TV just sitting in the relative quiet with Allie and Jedidiah. I love that I am taking time to hear the wind and rain outside, to think about what God has in the future and dreaming bigger in the last two days than I feel like I have for the last several months. I'm still in the "this is great" phase, I am sure that I will be begging for some TV or Instagram or Facebook soon. I love reading through your posts and seeing how God is already working.

Media Fast

Hi!  My name is Braden Chandler and I go to Arcade Middle School.  I am in eighth grade.  I am here to talk about my first few days on the Media Fast.  I gave up TV, video games and social media.  I am replacing it with God-related items, such as reading the Bible and writing in a gratitude journal.  This is hard, but I am feeling closer to God and not as bogged down as normal.  I am hoping to build a better relationship with God and take a break from everything that is useless. 

Media Fast: Day 3

My name is Audrey Chandler and I am in 6th grade at Arcade Middle School.   Today is my third day on the Media Fast.  It's been really hard for me because today I was invited to a sleepover, but didn't feel comfortable going because it was going to be a Movie Night.  I didn't want to break my Media Fast promise.  I like to use my phone, so I have put all of my apps into two folders, one I can go on, and the other one, I can't.  This has been great because when I open my phone, the home screen reminds me of the Media Fast.  During the Media Fast, my goal is to become closer to God by reading my Bible, which I have been doing a lot! I can't wait to see what God has planned for me this month!

The storms of life

The weather in these past few days has been incredible, hasn't it? I mean, Sacramento really should get an award for the most wishy-washy weather to ever exist, because one minute it's showering and windy and the next minute it's bright and sunny and only slightly breezy. And only a couple weeks ago it was in the 70s. Crazy! It's been amazing to see the power of God in the weather and realize that He really is in control of everything, even if it doesn't seem like that. 

     Our lives can definitely seem like the unpredictable weather sometimes. They are sunny and bright in some moments and then change to crazy storms in an instant. With all this unpredictability it's wonderful to have a steady Hand in our lives that has control of everything. Sometimes, though, we can turn to the wrong things to steady ourselves, such as secular media, and we end up getting more lost than when we started. I know that I've definitely let Snapchat become a major distraction in my life, and though this is my fourth year doing the fast, giving up my social media and secular music is very difficult - which is something I didn't expect. But life is like that, and I know that God has set up this Media Fast exactly the way He wants it for each and every one of us.

     Each of us is entering this fast at a different stage in life and will likely come out of it learning something different. But I believe that each of us will be touched by God's grace and overflowing love in incredible ways - ways we never could've imagined. And that's the amazing thing about God! He knows everything about us and wants the very best for us, and He has orchestrated a perfect plan for our lives and will lead us on the path to redemption because He loves us so much - much more than we could ever imagine. So even though the media fast is going differently than I thought it would go, I can rest assured that it's going exactly the way God wants it to go. How incredible is that?

      Thanks to all of our sponsors who are supporting us prayerfully and/or financially: you help so much, and it's nice to know that there are others out there who want to support this idea of a "media fast" and the people who are doing it! Happy fasting, everyone! Remember: God made you special, and He loves you very much!

-Madeleine Jones

My First Media Fast

Hi, my name is Ethan Prevatt. I go to Katherine Albiani Middle School and I’m in 8th grade. As soon as I heard about the media fast, I thought for sure that it would be very easy, as I am not addicted to media. But, as I am going through this, I’m realizing how hard it is. When my family starts watching something, I have to remove myself from the room or else I will start watching. It is also hard not being able to text my friends, but it definitely isn’t as hard as not watching TV. I am looking forward to seeing God in my life in these next 30 days!

Didn't Think it Would be that Hard!

Hi, I'm Aleksandra. I'm a 6th grader at COA Elementary. This is my first time doing a media fast and it's very tempting to listen to music or watch movies with family. I honestly didn't think it would be this hard because I'm not that attached to media but, I've found it to be pretty hard. Even though it sucks to be missing out, I kind of enjoy it. I am working on the scriptures and going through them. Since I have a lot of free time now, I've been reading the Bible more often than I used to. I'm excited to see what God has in store for me for the next 30 days. 

The Beginning

The media fast is back once again. I am so excited for this years fast and connecting with everyone involved. I had the amazing experience of ending February with winter camp with the middle schoolers. It was beautiful and incredible to get to connect with a wonderful group of kids while growing closer to God myself. I couldn't have asked for a better bridge into the media fast. The media fast is simple in theory and deceptively easy. Most people I talk to don't understand how easy it is to put away media. I personally spend a lot of time listening to music and nothing compares to worship music. It is amazing how a playlist of songs can change your mindset. The simple act of replacing my normal playlists with Christian ones has already made this week so much better. Putting away secular media is easy because of how rewarding it is. It is indescribable, the effect of focusing on God and his glory and actively working to grow closer to him. It not only improves my daily routines but i also believe the quality of life. Putting away these things of the world, like social media, tv, and music, it puts in perspective how little these things matter. It forces me to compare the shortlived rewards of nonsensical entertainment and the spiritual benefits of devoting oneself to God, two things that don't even go on the same scale.
I think another really important aspect of the media fast is the opportunity to spread the gospel through it. When you're friends ask you why you haven't been on instagram or why you cant listen to that new song, it is so easy to say I'm doing a media fast with my youth group and have a conversation wit them about it. Over the past three years i have had some pretty incredible conversations with people because of the media fast. It is such an easy tool to use to talk to people whether they do or don't know Jesus, about what you believe.
My prayers go out to those in the fast and everyone who is supporting it, our pastors, parents, sponsors, and supporters. I love hearing everyone's stories and I hope that as this month continues we continue sharing and talking. I am so excited to continue this media fast and find out more and more about God, his grace, and myself as I do every year. I hope that we all have the chance to feel the benefits of the media fast and grow closer together in fellowship.

Romans 12:2

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."  
Romans 12:2    ESV version

     I found this verse from a handout Matt gave us from a while back called "Emergency Memory Verses". It gives out the perfect verses that can relate to you when you are either worried, don't know what to do, when you feel alone, angry, feel like a failure, and so many more. This particular verse is for when you feel peer pressure and I think this verse is perfect for the media fast because we will all go through moments where we want to listen to other music, check our Snapchat or any other social media, its especially hard when you're with friends who aren't doing the media fast and go on see them go on their phones to check their social media at any given time. But this also gives you an eye-opener of seeing how many people instinctively fall onto checking their phones. And perhaps once this media fast ends, we stop our habits of checking our phones so often.
     Well I am praying for all of those who are doing the media fast. You guys have committed to something that is quite the challenge especially in today's day and age. But this media fast is an eye opener and will change your way of seeing yourself and catching on to distractions.It won't be easy but I believe in you and you will make it through the month of March. Good luck!

Here's another verse you can look up on your own time when you are tempted: James 4:7

Day 2

Hi! My name is Camille Kistner and I am super excited to be participating in my first media fast. Today is the second day and I already feel separated from the secular world and I am loving it. I think it's going to get harder as it goes on to stay away from some of my favorite music and tv shows.  I hope that during these 30 days, I will develop new habits and when the media fast is over, that I won't go back to my old habits of constantly having to be busy checking social media.  I can't wait to see what God is going to do in the lives of all of us doing this fast!!

First Media Fast!

Hi, my name is Anna Jewell. This is the first time I will be taking part in the media fast. I am very excited for this month because I spend so much of my time using media and without it I hope to grow closer to God. During this month my goal is to lose some of my habits that take up so much of my time, such as constantly checking social media. And also to create new habits, like consistently reading my bible and doing a daily devotional. I can't wait to see the results of this month! Please pray for me to have the mental strength to complete the fast and to use the time I would spend using media to grow closer to God.

My first time!

Hi my name is Jessica! I am a 6th grader at bridgeway island k-8 and I am both excited and nervous to do this media fast! I’m looking forward to connecting with God more and making a habit out of connecting with Him whether it’s on the media fast or not. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for me in the next 30 days... i find it hard to not always text my friends or go on some sort of media, so this is definitely a change that I can’t wait to see what God will do in my life. I’ve been doing the devotions and memorizing the verse for the week. Again, I am both excited and nervous about these 30 days of the media fast but I feel that I will do fine with God’s help!

Focusing on God

Hey, my name is Rachel Ganaga and I am a 6th grader at Silverado.  As most of the kids in middle school this is my first time doing the Media Fast and I'm excited to get closer to God and become stronger in his word.  Even though it has only been a couple days I find it harder and harder to stay away from secular media.  But, I've found that doing the daily devotion and memorizing the verse helps a lot because it gives you something important to think about.  This is a new to me and I'm really excited for what God has planned for the next 30 days.  Thanks for all the support. 

                              

Third Time

Hey guys my name is Sophya. I am a junior at El Camino and this is my third time doing the media fast. Doing the media fast is something difficult for me because it’s become such a habit to check social media whenever I feel bored when it’s during class, lunch, home, anywhere where I am not doing anything that isn’t hands on. But I always thank myself for pulling through the month of March  and step away from any secular media that districts me from God because it makes me realize how many things are sending a wrong message or inappropriate on whatever is trending when I do come back on social media and realize it’s something that is so common that we see everyday which is crazy and upsetting to think of. These past two days I’ve had so much more time on my hands. It’s actually really nice because my phone is such a time hogger. I’ve been finding new Christian music that I actually enjoy listening to. Please pray for me that I look up to God in times of boredom and do something with that time to either read the Bible, journal, find new music, anything that is focused on God and that I will maintain my focus for him.

Spotify Playlist

Here's another Spotify playlist will be added to as we go. What would you add?

https://open.spotify.com/user/22gu242vbx7r7d5hcynotbooi/playlist/4WWKDaMYG878iqayLlEBUX?si=14g3tLXFTDeTmx8IJmPpkQ

-Andrew

Wow.
I haven't even made it through the whole day today and I feel like I have had several extra hours to focus on God. I drove to San Francisco today to pick up Craig and Dann while I listened to half a book on church leadership, then I listened to two podcasts that really challenged me to think about God.
To top that off it was all while I was driving through a crazy storm and then into the beautiful sunshine. I am excited for the next 30 days. I know that the excitement will turn to frustration and then hopefully to a new normal.
-Andrew

My First Time

     My name is Jacob Ganaga and I am a 8th grader at Silverado Middle School. I am both really exited and nervous for this media fast. I have never done this before so this will be a hole new experience for me so..., I don't know exactly what to expect. One thing I know for sure is that it will be hard letting go all of my cellular media and using my free time for God. But, I truly hope (and determined) I can redirect my focus to God and grow stronger with him. I plan to do the devotions we were given and read the bible a lot more often than I probably ever did. Not only that but I also have a playlist on Spotify and some movies picked out for the media fast. Like I said earlier I am both exited and nervous but I can't wait to see what God is going to show during the next 30 days!

Here we go!

My name is Zachary Lenhart and this is the beginning of my second media fast. I did the media fast last year and was thankful that it opened my eyes to see the negative aspect that the media plays in our lives every day. Since going through the media fast last year, I have cut back on my usage of media (except for music) tremendously. However, I know that the media still changes my focus from God to unimportant things. I am looking forward to another month away from all secular media and to turn my full attention to God. During this fast, it will be very difficult for me to not listen to country music or to watch television (probably basketball) every day because they are things that I enjoy doing and have a habit of doing. Overall, I know that the fast will benefit me and help me grow closer to God which I am really happy about, but it will be a struggle for at least a few days if not each and every day. I wish everyone who is doing the fast good luck and I know that we can all do this together!

First Timer

Hi, my name is Matthew. This my first time doing a media fast. I am looking forward to focusing on God. I am also looking forward to Stay2Serve.

First Media Fast

My name is Jeremiah, and this is my first time ever doing a media fast. My older brother, who is a junior, has done it before, and I am super excited to grow in my relationship with God and not let media or anything else get in my way of learning about our wonderful God. I have done the stay 2 serve twice and I'm looking forward to help little children come to see, hear and follow our Lord. After all, our goal at Arcade Church is to get as many people to see, hear, and follow Jesus.  I even looked up a bible verse about it.


Psalm 119:133 Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.

First Year

                                         My First Year

      I  am Liana, I'm a 7th grader and I'm ready to take away all distractions and media that interrupts my relationship with God. Its also my first time doing the media fast.  I'm really passionate for this! I think getting off of social media will get everyone closer to god and help the relationship get stronger and better. In fact i found a verse that helps me personally focus on God           
                                                          Romans 8:5
 "For those who live according to flesh set their minds on things of the flesh,but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit."  
                                          ♡I hope i can grow stronger with God♡

First HS Media Fast

First time doing this with the church, not my first time ever media fasting though. Im really excited to do my homework AND sleep, a cool combo that I think could be helpful; but more than anything im excited to grow in my religion. I've got books of the bible, spotify playlists, and even video games about God that will help me to not use any secular media and become closer to God. I hope God will help me through the next 30 days. Colossians 3:5!

A Fresh Start

     My name is Nathan Hatfield and I have been going to Arcade church my whole life. I love growing through the church and learning more about God every time I show up on Sundays but whenever I went home I would always go straight to my room take off my "church clothes" and turn on the T.V. to watch football. As I started listening to pastor Matt and pastor Craig I realized that worshiping God isn't supposed to be meant for one day its supposed to be meant for all days. After realizing this I saw that whenever I got home I would breakaway from God and put technology before him. Now I have joined the media fast so when I get home I won't be able to play games or watch sports I will be able to stay with God and remember and give thanks for all he's given me. I believe that during these 30 days of fasting my faith in God will rise and grow extremely. I do have to admit I love to play video games and listen to music other than christian but I am so happy to give that up for someone more important and all giving. I am hoping that after the fast I will take some of it and apply it everyday,maybe cut back on things that I don't need and not going straight to the T.V. after church.

    I hope the other people who are doing this for the first time like me understand and know that this is so important and it will be super good for us. I am praying for everyone and hoping temptation doesn't persuade others to break free from this fast.

One Month a Year for 15 Years...Until Now

       I am a Junior and I have done the Media Fast almost my whole life (been doing it for 15 years) so I would say I'm pretty used to it by now. This would be my 4th official year doing the media fast and going on the missions trip. I have decided to challenge myself this year and go 2 1/2 months instead of just thirty days. I actually started my media fast on February 8th and plan on going till April 30th. I have given up all media like Instagram, and Facebook. I have also decided to fast from online shopping/browsing because I often find myself browsing for things I don't need.(which I never end up buying anything) Every year I give up music and movies that don't focus on God...but this year since I started in February I "had" to watch the Olympics. My family is kinda Olympic "junkies" and we love watching just about every sport. But now since the Olympics are over I am now giving up all TV and music not focused on God. I am exited to see what God is going to show me through this 82 day fast.

My Second Journey

As I go into my second time of Media Fast, I am both excited and anxious. I know that I will have more free time, be disappointed I can't listen to new music, but overall grateful for the experience. In the last couple of weeks, I have struggled with the idea of life after death. I know heaven exists, but I can't even begin to imagine the idea of "eternity," and sometimes that scares me. I will be grateful to grow closer to God and learn from the experience, and hopefully He will be able to help me out with this. I will be giving up all social media as I feel this is important in my media time. Before last year's media fast, I spent a lot of time on social media, but since then more of my time has been spent on more worthy things. I hope the outcome is the same this year but with Netflix. Can't wait to see how it turns out! Life is a journey

My First Year (and not my last)

Hello, my name is Jordan Gilbert, I am a Freshman and this is my first year doing the Media Fast. I am excited to fast from all secular media for a whole month. I am usually on YouTube, social media, and video games a lot so I am happy for a chance to drop all of that and focus on God for the month of March. My goals for the next thirty days are to learn more and grow closer to God and learn to take a step back from everything in the world.

To help me stay away from the temptations of media I have turned off and moved all of my secular apps to a folder. Since I get bored very easily I have downloaded apps on my phone that are about the Bible, they teach you more about the Bible and God while helping you memorize Bible verses. A hard part for me is at school, there are always people playing music and there are several classes that music is required for presentations.

This is the first time that I will be doing this and I wish everyone good luck and I will be praying for everyone doing the fast.

Final [Official] Year

Hi everyone,
For those who don't know me, my name is Katie Green, and I am a former high school student that was reasonably involved in Arcade Church. On June 26, I graduated from high school, and on June 27, I moved south to San Luis Obispo. I moved because I was offered a full-time position with a company, and I felt that it would be a really great experience to prepare myself for the rest of life. It was a very abrupt change, and I know that it caused a lot of confusion and bitterness in some areas, but I'm at the beginning of a very different chapter of my life, and I'm really excited about it, and it's my hope that other people will be just as excited and supportive. To clarify, I did move by myself, and being a minor, I have had a billion issues arrive from being alone. Just a couple weeks ago I went to the San Luis Obispo library hoping to use a specific computer program... I couldn't even get a library card without a parent's signature. I've had other complications as well, but I've been fortunate to surround myself with some really amazing people. I found a church that I absolutely love, a bible study/church group that I'm interested in, and a small handful of girls, mentors, coworkers, etc. that I really look up to and enjoy. Regardless, I miss the people in Sacramento, and lots of things are really different and weird right now. My goal this month (since that's what the actual prompt asks) is to solidify my identity as a person here by centering back and solidifying my foundation in Christ. I don't have any real attachments to faith based communities like I did in Sacramento, so I think I will do a lot of learning and growing and defining in the next month. Also, having a more set schedule for the first time in my life, I want to put things into my calendar like bible time and journal time (and once things are in my calendar now... they ABSOLUTELY get done). Aside from scheduling, I'm going to do something called growthTRACK starting in March with the church that I've been attending. It's like a class sort of thing that helps you find a fit in the church. It seems like they could potentially have a worship need which is something I really miss, and I'm really excited to see what comes out of the class and the month in general. I'm a little lost and not very updated in regards to the media fast right now, so please be considerate if it takes me a minute to understand exactly what all is going on if you contact me. And I seriously encourage anyone/everyone to contact me! I miss people so much and I'd love to get an email from a friend or from a stranger and just talk to them. My email is ktgreen2018@gmail.com If this blog was sort of sporadic and unstructured, I apologize, but I will happily fill in gaps via email or via another requested blog post. Thanks everyone!!
Katie

The Beginning of Another Year

After leading and participating in this Media Fast for the past 16 years, I am still impressed and encouraged when I see how a group of teenagers not only decide to make a commitment to avoid media that is not focused on God, but that they find ways to pursue God that is not "the norm". The other day, as we are getting ready to launch the beginning steps of the fast, I overheard 3 of our High School students ask, "So are we going to go through April?" Of course, this peaked my interest so I interjected, "It's only through March... you've done this before." They then explained to me that they had already started in February and they were discussing whether they would go 2 months or 3 months!

God is amazing! It's never more evident than when young people, who are honestly seeking Him, decide to let Him lead their thoughts and ideas... producing actions that speak louder than words. I am looking forward to this year! Over 40 Middle School and High School along with many of the families and youth leaders and volunteers are getting ready to pursue God with complete abandon... HERE. WE. GO.