We have so much information at our fingertips that it is overwhelming. It is hard for me to think this is best for our mental health to have access to all the devastation, all at once, at any given time. It is difficult to stay grounded in Truth when we are bombarded with constant news of destruction, pain, loss, etc. We are not the only generation that has been through terrible times, but we are the only ones that can see it all on our personal handheld device. So how do we cope with the brokenness? How do we stay educated without living in despair? How can we make a difference or get involved to help?
Know Yourself and Set Habits Accordingly
It is important to do a bit of self-reflection and see how you interact with the information that you hear, see, read. Notice how it impacts your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs. For some, daily intake of the news and time on social media is perfectly fine, and for some it can increase anxiety, frustration, or sadness. If you are one with high empathy levels like myself, it’s probably good to set some limits on how often you are seeking out media. Setting limits can look like reading articles or listening to podcasts only on certain days of the week. It could look like setting time limits on your phone’s news and social media apps. It could also look like taking a Sabbath every week from heavy information or your phone in general.
Seek Truth
We live in a culture where everyone defines his or her own individual truth. This obviously has huge implications. As a therapist, I find significant value in being able to empathize and seeking to understand someone else’s point of view. When we humble ourselves and acknowledge the uniqueness of others, we can mend relationships and communicate exponentially easier. However, as a culture, it seems we want to validate everyone’s perspective so fervently that we swing so far as to recognize it as truth and fact versus just perspective.
One of my many sinful tendencies is to exhaust the world of its comforts and/or truths for healing or understanding. Then Jesus draws me back to His precious Word and reminds me that He is the only Truth, the only answer, the only relationship that supernaturally heals pain and brokenness. If we’ve lived just a moment, we have experienced this pain, confusion, or longing. Even the training and experience I have as a therapist to walk with people through their darkest emotion and to relive their most horrific traumas, falls short of the grace and healing provided through Jesus. When inundated with devastation, the only true hope is Jesus.
Serve
Healthy responses to brokenness around the world are beautifully diverse, depending on a person’s unique gifts and situation. Growing up, I often wanted someone else’s gift or talent. I wondered if God made a mistake when he made my flaws and me. He’s graciously shown me otherwise the past few years, making it vividly clear that I (and the beautiful people around me) are completely on purpose. All that to say, you can serve in a million different ways. It really does not matter what you do, but how--how you worship and glorify God along the way.
A way that I serve is by keeping my two toddlers alive. They have constant needs that keep me grounded in the tangible practical sacrifice that my soul needs to stay anchored to Truth. Without serving others, I can drift into a self-centered world that says many false things about God and myself. There are so many ways to serve your community or family, according to your strengths or skills, that will keep you focused on the Truth that God is sovereign and compassionate; He really is enough.
Meet the Author!
Kayla is the wife of Council Road’s Young Adult Pastor, Landry Franks, and mother to Asher and Dru. She works as a therapist in Oklahoma City, providing trauma services for children, adolescents, and families. She enjoys time with her family, meaningful conversation, cold weather, running, and a good board game.