Health Message (September 12, 2026)

Health Ministry: Stop Scrolling and Start Living

Most humans live about 80 years. Most of that time is spent working 13 years, sleeping 28 years, trying to fall asleep 7 years, cooking and eating 6 years, and driving or sitting in traffic 5 years. You would think with the approximate 15 years left we would value our time with God and each other; however according to research many of us spend it staring at a screen. We could be creating, learning, building, exploring, be active and/or connect with others. Instead we watch others doing all of those things on a screen.

Colossians 3:2 “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”

This verse calls for prioritizing spiritual and meaningful pursuits over distractions. It’s a reminder to direct your attention toward God and worthwhile activities rather than endless scrolling.

Excessive screen time is stealing years of our lives, along with changing our brains, mood, and relationships. I see it in my grandchildren, other children and adults. People are becoming lonelier, more depressed, more anxious, and more forgetful. I see the forgetfulness in myself. I put everything in the phone as a reminder somewhere so I don't challenge myself to recall things or dates.

Philippians 4:8 “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” By focusing your thoughts on uplifting and godly things, you naturally reduce time spent on unhelpful content.

It doesn't have to be that way. We can put down our phones and spend more time truly living. This is an invitation to stop scrolling and return to real-world adventures and activities. Over the next couple of weeks we will look at how to put down the phone and highlight the benefits of taking a digital sabbath for , engaging in offline hobbies and getting together with people face-to-face. Go ahead, step away from the screens and get busy living a vibrant life.

Do All to the Glory of God,

Sandra Jackson